What is the Canon Autoboy 2 Film Camera?
The Canon Autoboy 2, known in North America as the Canon Sure Shot and in Japan as the Autoboy 2, is a compact film camera released by Canon, one of the world’s leading camera manufacturers. It made its first appearance on the photography scene on May 1, 1983, boasting sophisticated features and innovative technologies of its era. The Autoboy 2 was priced around 35,000 yen upon its release, equivalent to around $300 in today’s market, catering to photography enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.
Distinguished Features and Functionality
The Canon Autoboy 2 is renowned for its robust feature set and user-friendly operations. Equipped with a 38mm f/2.8 lens, the camera produces sharp images and stunning color reproduction – a testament to its superior lens quality and craftsmanship. The built-in flash and self-timer function are perfect for capturing accurate exposures in various lighting conditions and for group shots or self-portraits, respectively.
A noteworthy function of the Autoboy 2 is its ability to automatically advance and rewind the film. This advanced feature, uncommon for its release period, enhances the user’s convenience and allows them to focus more on their subjects and composition.
One particularly unique functionality of the camera is its pre-focus feature. In pre-focus mode, the Autoboy 2 locks and retains focus on the subject, allowing the user to take perfectly focused images every time the shutter button is pressed. This makes the Autoboy 2 an ideal camera for shooting subjects in motion.
Personal Experience with the Canon Autoboy 2
I stumbled upon the Canon Autoboy 2 during a trip to Tokyo back in 2000. There was a thrift store running a sale for vintage cameras and on a whim, I decided to purchase the Autoboy 2. Initially, it was the compactness of the camera and the simple design that captivated me. However, after bringing it home and using it, I was blown away by the results.
The photos produced by the Autoboy 2 had a distinctive look and feel to them. The depth of field created by the 38mm lens, combined with the automatic exposure system, rendered beautifully lit and colour-accurate images. It was easy to use, and I did not have to worry about advancing the film after flicking the shutter, thanks to the auto advance function.
Why is it Worth a Second Look?
In a world of digital cameras, smartphone photography, and Instagram, why should one consider the Canon Autoboy 2? Well, using the Autoboy 2 is a return to the roots of photography. It’s a break from the constant LCD chimping and the obsession over the picture-perfect nature of digital photography. Every click of the shutter has weight and meaning, bringing a mindful approach to the act of taking a photograph. It’s all about capturing a moment in time, not just creating a sterile representation of it.
So if you are a photography enthusiast who appreciates the beauty of film photography or you’re just starting out and looking for an easy-to-use yet high-quality film camera, the Canon Autoboy 2 is a great choice. Its rich history, innovative features, and the unique photographic experience it offers make it more than worth the investment.
