During the introduction of Canon AF 35 mm cameras about three decades ago, the innovation offered by the new camera breakthrough provided autofocus functions and features made by a CCD (charge couple device). Back in those days, the CCD, now widely used in still and video cameras, was a rare feature. The CCD is primarily used in camera lenses to convert optical brightness into electrical amplitude signals for the visual reproduction of the image the camera shoots.
Autofocus Technology in Film Cameras
The autofocus (AF) technology in film cameras revolutionized the camera features manufacturers use even up to this day. SLR bodies producing professional images, teamed up with automated features, provide ease of use, while still maintaining top quality image production. AF 35 mm cameras almost entirely displaced the manual focus bodies of older cameras, as the autofocus feature provides ideal use for many photographers, from amateurs to photojournalists and sports photographers.
Canon AF System
The Canon AF 35 mm cameras initially offered automatic focus on single central points (range points) in the viewfinder. As the technology developed, it became a primary feature in both film and digital SLR cameras. This led to various innovations, such as the three-point AF (central horizontal-axis direction), five-point AF, 45-point area AF, and even eye-controlled autofocusing.
Consumer 35 mm Cameras
Even consumer 35 mm cameras greatly benefited from the Canon AF system. Canon's 35 mm compact cameras like the Canon Sure Shot series feature AF system among other automated features.
Tags: automated features, Canon cameras