03-03-2025 02:50 PM - edited 03-03-2025 02:51 PM
Hello, I know you are going to tell me to buy a new camera but I already have two digital cameras that are bricks because they are "too expensive to repair." Therefore, I want to get back into film, and use the excellent condition Canon A1 that I bought new in approximately 1982... (photographed yesterday)
Clearly, the camera needs to have the light seals and mirror cushion replaced and I would very much like to have the camera inspected, cleaned, lubricated and adjusted, if needed, by a Canon professional.
My question is: is there anyone that you can recommend that could do the work?
03-03-2025 05:13 PM
The A-1 is a great camera. It is also a 43-year-old camera. I have one, and a newer AE-1 Program that I love, and a Canon EF and F-1. All work perfectly but I am fully aware that that could change at any moment. Getting repairs on film cameras is problematic.
Canon will not touch your A-1. Go to a camera store and ask if they can recommend someone. There are also mail-in repair services.
03-03-2025 06:20 PM - edited 03-03-2025 06:34 PM
Greetings,
So what you really have are three cameras that don't work...😂. Yes, sorry... It's time for new camera or new to you something. If the foam surround on the camera back and the mirror box is disintegrated all of your photos will be reddish depending on what kind of sealing you don't get.
I suggest you look into getting your DSLRs repaired unless they are relic status too. There is nothing magic about film. Example DxO film pack can give you the same output look, feel, color and grain of every brand film that was ever made. Film... You'll never know if you got the shot until it's too late. Those are two very compelling reasons against film. Limited lens selection... Now there's 3.
If your two DSLRs aren't repairable, I'd be looking at Canon refurbished, KEH, B&H or Adorama used. Don't get me wrong. I grew up with film but I'm not going back. Good luck with whatever you decide. Finding old camera repair is possible but more difficult now.
~Rick
Bay Area - CA
~R5 C (1.0.9.1) ~RF Trinity, ~RF 100 Macro, ~RF 100~400, ~RF 100~500, ~RF 200-800 +RF 1.4x TC, BG-R10, 430EX III-RT ~DxO PhotoLab Elite ~DaVinci Resolve Studio ~ImageClass MF644Cdw/MF656Cdw ~Pixel 8 ~CarePaks Are Worth It
02/20/2025: New firmware updates are available.
RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Z - Version 1.0.6
RF24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z - Version 1.0.9
RF100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM - Version 1.0.8
RF50mm F1.4 L VCM - Version 1.0.2
RF24mm F1.4 L VCM - Version 1.0.3
01/27/2025: New firmware updates are available.
12/18/2024: New firmware updates are available.
EOS C300 Mark III - Version 1..0.9.1
EOS C500 Mark II - Version 1.1.3.1
12/05/2024: New firmware updates are available.
EOS R5 Mark II - Version 1.0.2
09/26/2024: New firmware updates are available.
Canon U.S.A Inc. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited.