Besides five AE modes, which cover all forms of photography, easy override of the A-l's AE functions is also possible .

Shutter priority AE is especially useful in action photography, aperture priority AE in still photography. The programmed AE mode, in which the camera controls both aperture and shutter speed for correct exposure, is good for general use and is the easiest mode for beginners. These three AE modes along with exclusive flash AE, are performed with a FD lens set at "A" for all the benefits of full aperture metering. Stopped-down AE, in which the shutter speed is automatically set, allows automatic exposure with non-FD lenses and accessories and is a big advantage in close-ups and photomicrography. And since all AE inputs have been consolidated into the AE mode selector and the AT dial, the operation of only these two controls suffices to set the camera for any one of the five AE modes.

For complete control for exposure correction or special effects, manual operation is a simple matter of moving the FD lens aperture ring from the "A" mark while the shutter speed is set on the AT dial. The Canon A-1 will even provide you with exposure readout as a basis for your exposure adjustment.