What is the Canon FTb?

The Canon FTb is a manual focus 35mm SLR camera that was introduced by Canon in 1971. It is a popular choice among photography enthusiasts and professionals for its robust build quality and reliable performance.

What type of film does the Canon FTb use?

The Canon FTb uses standard 35mm film, which is widely available and comes in various types and speeds. It supports both black and white and color film.

What is the lens mount of the Canon FTb?

The Canon FTb features the Canon FD lens mount, which was the standard lens mount for Canon SLR cameras during that era. It allows for a wide range of lens options, including prime lenses, zoom lenses, and specialty lenses.

Is the Canon FTb a fully manual camera?

Yes, the Canon FTb is a fully manual camera. It does not have any automatic exposure modes or autofocus capabilities. This makes it a great choice for photographers who prefer full control over their camera settings.

What is the shutter speed range of the Canon FTb?

The Canon FTb has a shutter speed range from 1 second to 1/1000th of a second, including a Bulb mode for long exposures. It also has a flash sync speed of 1/125th of a second.

Does the Canon FTb have a built-in light meter?

Yes, the Canon FTb has a built-in light meter. It uses a match needle system located in the viewfinder to indicate the exposure settings. The light meter requires a mercury battery to function, which may be difficult to find as mercury batteries are no longer produced.

Can the Canon FTb be used with modern lenses?

While the Canon FTb was designed for Canon FD lenses, it is possible to use modern lenses with the camera through the use of lens adapters. However, the camera will lose its fully manual functionality when using modern lenses, as they typically lack aperture rings and require electronic communication with the camera body.

What are the dimensions and weight of the Canon FTb?

The Canon FTb measures approximately 141mm x 92mm x 48mm (5.6in x 3.6in x 1.9in) and weighs around 620g (1.4lbs) without a lens attached.

Is the Canon FTb compatible with motor drives?

Yes, the Canon FTb is compatible with motor drives, specifically the Canon Motor Drive MF. The motor drive allows for automatic film advance and can significantly increase the shooting speed of the camera.

Is the Canon FTb a durable camera?

Yes, the Canon FTb is known for its durability and robust build quality. It features a metal body construction, which adds to its sturdiness and longevity. Many photographers still use the Canon FTb today, decades after its release.

Join the Filmtypes community

Canon FTb

Name: Canon FTb
Brand: Canon
Rating: 3.5 (8 reviews)

Slr

35MM

Canon

Japan

Size & Weight

Camera Size for Canon FTb144 x 93 x 43 mm
Camera Weight for Canon FTb820 g
Camera Build Material for Canon FTbMetal

Focus

Camera Focus Mode for Canon FTbManual Focus
Camera Focus Type for Canon FTbSplit Image

Exposure

Camera Shutter Speed Range for Canon FTb1 sec – 1/1000 sec
Camera ISO Speed Range for Canon FTb25 ISO – 2000 ISO
Camera Exposure Modes for Canon FTbManual, Shutter-Priority
Camera Exposure Meter for Canon FTbCenter Weighted Average Metering
Camera Viewfinder for Canon FTbPentaprism

Lens & Accessories

Camera Lens Type for Canon FTbInterchangeable Lens
Camera Lens Mount for Canon FTbCanon FD
Common Camera Lenses for Canon FTb Canon FD 50mm f/1.8 Canon FD 28mm f/2.8 Canon FD 135mm f/3.5
Camera Flash for Canon FTb No Built-In Flash
Camera Common Accessories for Canon FTb Canon Speedlite 199A Flash Canon FD 200mm f/2.8 Lens Canon Angle Finder B

Battery

Camera Battery Type for Canon FTbPX625
Battery Life for Canon FTbApproximately 1 year
Battery Replaceable for Canon FTbReplaceable

Manual

Camera Manual for Canon FTbShow Manual

Use Cases

Camera Use Cases for Canon FTb
🚶‍♂️📸
Street Photography
👩📸
Portrait Photography
🏞️📸
Landscape Photography

Description for Canon FTb

The Canon FTb is a 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) film camera introduced by Canon in 1971. It is a manual focus camera that offers full manual control over exposure and focus. The FTb features a rugged and durable metal body, making it suitable for use in various shooting conditions. It has a built-in light meter that provides accurate exposure readings through the viewfinder. The camera uses Canon FD mount lenses, which are known for their excellent optical quality. The FTb also has a vertical-travel, metal-bladed focal plane shutter with speeds ranging from 1/1000 to 1 second, as well as a bulb mode for long exposures. With its reliable performance and classic design, the Canon FTb is a popular choice among film photography enthusiasts.

✺ Even more info for you

The FTb has a bright viewfinder with a split-image focusing screen and microprism collar, making it easy to achieve precise focus. It has a depth-of-field preview button that allows photographers to preview the depth of field before taking a shot. The camera requires a 1.35V mercury battery for the light meter, but it can also be used without a battery by relying on the Sunny 16 rule or an external light meter. The FTb offers multiple exposure capability, allowing photographers to create unique and creative images. Overall, the Canon FTb is a reliable and versatile camera that delivers high-quality results.

Example Photos for Canon FTb

📷 Yumi Abe |

📷 Daniel Patman |

📷 Meekrok |

Some photos might not be accurate. We are working on it ✌

Pros and Cons for Canon FTb

High build quality and durability

Full manual control for advanced photographers

Bright and clear viewfinder

Compatible with a wide range of Canon FD lenses

Accurate and reliable light metering system

No built-in motor drive

Manual film loading and rewinding

Limited exposure modes compared to newer cameras

How to Use the Camera Canon FTb

How to Load Film Canon FTb

Potential Problems and Fixes for Canon FTb

Light Meter Failure

The Canon FTb's light meter is known to fail over time due to its age. Regular maintenance and careful usage can prolong its life. If it fails, consider using an external light meter or learn to estimate exposure.

Shutter Speed Inaccuracy

Over time, the shutter speeds on the Canon FTb can become inaccurate. Regular cleaning and lubrication can help maintain accuracy. If the speeds become too inaccurate, professional repair or replacement might be necessary.

Mirror Foam Deterioration

The foam used to cushion the mirror in the Canon FTb can deteriorate over time, leading to potential damage to the mirror. It's recommended to replace the foam every few years to prevent this.

Frequently Asked Questions for Canon FTb

Share Photos •Browse Photos •Collect Film Stocks •Collect Cameras •Achievements

Screw Instagram.

We are building a social network exclusively for film photographers.

Yes, for you.

Join our exlusive waitlist. Will be available for Web, iOS and Android.

Join our grainy newsletter to get the latest updates on new film stocks, cameras, and our new app.