BetterPhoto Q&A
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Vito A. Caiati		a classic...or a wreck? I have an old Canon AE-1 SLR,that used to be my dad's (...actually still is, but I use it more than he does!!) and I was wondering,how good is or was this camera? I mean, what level camera was this when it came out? BTW, when did it first come out? I love it and treasure it for what it means to me...i.e. hundreds of family vacation memories, but is it worth loving it for what it actually is as well? Now, a couple of technical questions... ...i would really appreciate an answer from other AE-1 owners: The meter on my AE-1 does not work anymore, all I can use is the led that signals underexposure, does anyone know if I can have that fixed? secondly, this is a very old and battered machine, and some of the tiny screws got lost, basically the metal plate in the bottom is only half-fixed to the body...do you think the camera is still sealed, or am I getting unwanted light onto the film? thanks everybody, Ciao from Italy, Vito. To love this question, log in above July 21, 2003

doug Nelson		The AE-1 was quite popular, and so a replacement should be reasonably priced. You might also find a broken one from which your repairman might be able to switch meter parts or those missing screws. The loose bottom plate should not let light through to your film. Check out keh.com for a replacement AE-1. Consider also an AE-1 program, an A-1, or an AT-1. To love this comment, log in above July 24, 2003

Dawn Cagle		I can't help with your meter question but I do know how to deal with your missing screws. Pick up an eyeglasses repair kit, you can get them just about anywhere for about a dollar, the screws fit perfectly! To love this comment, log in above August 16, 2005

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