The Canon 7 is my new camera
I’m thrilled to share that I’ve just added the Canon 7 rangefinder to my photography kit, and I couldn’t be more excited!
This iconic camera combines timeless design with practical functionality, and I can already tell it’s going to be a joy to work with. It is part of the series of Canon rangefinders which have been renamed Japanese Leica also because they can mount Leica lenses.
A bit of history
The Canon 7 was first released in 1961 as one of the last and most advanced rangefinder models produced by Canon before they shifted their focus to SLR cameras. It was designed to compete with Leica’s rangefinders of the time, offering photographers a more affordable yet highly capable alternative. One of its standout features was the built-in selenium light meter, which was considered a major innovation for its era. Paired with Canon’s legendary lenses, like the ultra-fast 50mm f/0.95, the Canon 7 became a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Why did I choose the Canon 7?
As you know, my work is rooted in creating meaningful images, and I was drawn to the Canon 7 for several reasons:
I would so bad a rangefinder camera: With a nice design, something that would please my sight, not just a tool but a camera that I am proud even to wear or having on the table of a bar while I taste a Negroni.
It’s fully mechanical: No reliance on electronics means ultimate reliability. This camera is built to last and ready to perform in any conditions, a true workhorse for film photography.
Built-in light meter: A remarkable feature for a rangefinder of its era, offering an extra layer of convenience while still allowing full manual control. While I am perfectly aware there are more precise lightmeters, I believe that I will work good with the Canon 7.
Compatibility with legendary lenses: The ability to pair this with fantastic lenses opens up a world of creative possibilities.
Durable and reliable build: Its solid construction feels like it could withstand anything, making it a trusted companion for years to come. While I am mostly a digital photographer, I think is a cool idea to count with a film camera like this.
Bright, clear viewfinder: Perfect for composing with precision where every detail and texture counts. Used to work with small point & shoot film cameras, where the viewfinders are so small that it's hard to really put your eye inside (ex. my Olympus Stylus Infinity) finally I have a real viewfinder.
I’m eager to explore its potential and see how it integrates into my creative workflow. From its stellar reputation in the film photography community to its practical specs, the Canon 7 feels like a natural extension of my approach to street photography and environmental portraiture. I will start with some urban landscape photography and in any case this camera is perfect for a slowed-down, contemplative style that is the main reason I decided to back to film after more than 2 years of stop.
Stay tuned as I put this beauty to the test in the coming days! I’ll share my first impressions, some sample shots, and how it holds up in real-world conditions.
Have you ever used the Canon 7? I’d love to hear your experiences or tips in the comments!
