The Canon EOS-1V and EOS-1V HS 35mm film cameras are no longer made, and they are only available on the used market. I own two of these cameras, and I typically have my 24-105mm lens on one and the 100-400mm lens on the other unless there is a specific need to use one of my other specialty lenses.
Canon’s final no-compromise 35mm flagship SLR, the magnesium alloy Canon EOS-1V is a benchmark in professional 35mm SLR camera history. It has a lightning-fast autofocus system with 45 AF points that can be customized to the user’s needs. Seven super-sensitive cross sensors detect vertical as well as horizontal lines of subjects, and the central sensor works even with working apertures as low as f/8, so that you’ll retain autofocus function using f/4 lenses with 2X teleconverters. The EOS-1V is made in Japan to the highest possible manufacturing standards, and its shutter is specified to withstand 150,000 cycles (>4000 36-exposure rolls of film).
The EOS-1V’s control layout shares the lineage of the original EOS-1, and users of the 1, 1N, & 3 will find the operation intuitive. The EOS-1V’s sealing is the best in Canon’s 35mm SLR history; together with “L” telephoto lenses, one can shoot in the worst of conditions. The 100% accurate glass pentaprism viewfinder is as bright and contrasty as any autofocus camera, and custom functions allow personalization of autofocus, metering, and operating systems. You can also link the EOS-1V to a PC for data transfer and remote control.
- Canon’s final 35mm format flagship SLR camera
- Magnesium-alloy body & chassis
- Extensive rubber sealing; 72 gaskets throughout
- Shutter specified to withstand 150,000 cycles
- 45-Point autofocus system
- Incredibly fast drive with optional PB-E2 booster; 9 frames per second in predictive AF, and 10 fps in One Shot AF
- Brilliant quality, 100% coverage viewfinder with glass pentaprism
- Shares the proven control layout shared in the EOS-1
- PC Link software for data transfer & remote control (not relevant today because the software is old and requires old operating systems).
- 20 built-in Custom Functions plus 31 additional Personal Functions (a total of 63 individual settings) with optional accessory PC Link enable photographers to customize the EOS-1v for specific applications.
Ready to take your film photography to the next level? Mastering the art and science of properly scanning and editing your negatives is essential for achieving the best possible results. Whether you’re shooting 35mm, medium format, or large format, a well-executed hybrid workflow can unlock the full tonal range and character of your film. Join me as we dive into proven techniques that preserve the analog soul while delivering beautifully polished images ready for print or screen. For in-depth tutorials, workflow breakdowns, and direct access to my personal guidance, become a member of the Darkroom Diary Premium Membership and start transforming your scans into gallery-worthy prints.
Detailed Button/Parts Identification
How to Change Custom Functions on the Canon EOS‑1V
- Open the side door on the left of the camera body.
- Press the C.Fn button.
- Turn the Main Dial to select the desired Custom Function number (0–19).
- Press the C.Fn button again to cycle through the available settings.
- Half-press the shutter button to save and exit.
Field Insider Tips
Scenario: Configure a single button to return the focus point back to the center point.
Refer to the Detail Button/Parts Identification Diagrams above as needed.
I frequently need to move the focus point around to different locations when photographing wild horses and that is a very simple process to do this in the field without ever taking my eye off of the viewfinder. By pressing the “Focuing Point Selector Button” on the far right on the back of the camera, the focusing point can be moved veritcally by using the large Quick Control Dial on the rear of the camera or horizontally by rotating the Main Dial. However, there are times that I need to instantly get the focus point back to the center point and I will describe how to program the camera to do this.
Step 1 – Set the center focusing point. As described above, ensure the center point is currently selected by using the Focusing Point Selector Dial and the Quick Control Dial and/or Main Dial.
Step 2 – Register the center focusing point by pressing the “Assist Button” on the far left and pressing the FEL button, next to the shutter button. You should hear a beep when you do this. The center focusing point is now registered.
Step 3 – Modify the FN-18 Setting. Press the CFn button and rotate the main dial to get to F 18. Now press the CFn button until the F 18 value is set to 1. Now press the shutter release button and everything is ready to go.
Operations: Now, when you are away from the center focusing point and want to get back there instantly without having to take your eye out of the viewfinder, press the “Assist Button” and you are back at the center point instantly.
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Scenario: Achieving Sharp Focus on a Horse’s Eye Outside the Available AF Points
When creating portrait-style images of a single wild horse, I often want precise focus on the eye. However, the composition I envision doesn’t always align with the available autofocus points, making direct focusing on the eye impossible without compromising framing. This may sound like an absurd limitation in the age of AI-driven AF on mirrorless cameras, but we survived a very long time without supercomputers and software engineers helping us achieve focus.
The solution is to switch from AI Servo to One-Shot AF mode, allowing me to lock focus on any selected AF point. I use the AF point closest to the horse’s eye to ensure critical focus, then recompose the shot while holding down the back-button AF (AF-ON). Since I’ve set up my camera for back-button focusing, maintaining focus while recomposing is seamless—my thumb naturally holds the AF-ON button during the entire process.
This method ensures that the horse’s eye stays tack sharp even when it falls outside the active AF zone, while also giving me full creative control over composition.
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Scenario: Setting Up Back-Button Autofocus on the Canon EOS-1V
You want full control over when the camera focuses—separating autofocus from the shutter button. This is especially useful when photographing moving subjects like wild horses, where you may want to lock focus and wait for the perfect moment to press the shutter without refocusing.
The solution is to enable Back-Button AF by changing Custom Function 4:
- Set C.Fn-4 = 1 to assign autofocus to the
*(AE Lock) button on the back of the camera. - The shutter button will now only control metering and shutter release, not AF.
- With this setup, you use your thumb to focus and index finger to shoot, giving you more precision and flexibility in the field.
This method is fast, intuitive, and highly recommended for wildlife and action photography.
Optional Custom Functions for Photographing Wild Horses with the EOS-1V:
Streamlining how you operate the Canon EOS‑1V in the field will help you concentrate on the subject, especially with fast-moving animals like wild horses. Based the use case of wild horses and the EOS-1V’s capabilities, here are additional field-optimized setup tips and Custom Function suggestions to help you work more efficiently and intuitively.
Use Registered Focus Point Recall (C.Fn-18)
You’ve already configured this (as describe directly above) — it’s one of the most powerful tools.
Use C.Fn-18 = 1 to recall center point instantly with just the Assist button.
Limit AF Points for Speed (C.Fn-13)
Scrolling through 45 points takes too long in the field. I don’t use this, but some people like it.
- Set C.Fn-13 = 3 → Limits to 9 AF points + links spot metering
- This gives you fast selection + consistent metering at the same point
Keep Film Leader Out (C.Fn-2 = 1)
This is a life saver — important if you’re bulk-loading or developing your own film.
Silent Rewind (C.Fn-1 = 2 or 3)
Avoid spooking the horses at the end of a roll.
- C.Fn-1 = 2 for silent auto rewind (I use this setting)
- C.Fn-1 = 3 if you want to rewind manually and quietly
Mirror Lockup (C.Fn-12)
If you’re ever on a tripod for more static compositions, enable mirror lockup for maximum sharpness.
- Set C.Fn-12 = 1, then use a cable release (rarely used)
- Skip this for handheld action work
Safety Shift in Av/Tv (C.Fn-16 = 1)
Lets the camera shift exposure settings slightly to prevent blown highlights or underexposure.
- Great when light is rapidly changing or when you’re near max shutter/aperture limits (I haven’t tested this enough to know how I feel about it).
Use PB-E2 Power Booster with AA Tray
If you’re not already, use the PB-E2 grip with AAs instead of the expensive 2CR5.
Gives you:
- 7 fps burst with NiMH cells
- Easier battery access in remote areas
- Vertical grip shooting comfort
Summary Setup for Wild Horse Work:
| Feature | Setting |
|---|---|
| Quick center AF recall | C.Fn-18 = 1 |
| Limit AF points | C.Fn-13 = 3 |
| Film leader out | C.Fn-2 = 1 |
| Silent rewind | C.Fn-1 = 2 or 3 |
| Safety shift (exposure) | C.Fn-16 = 1 |
| Back-button AF | C.Fn-4 = 1 |
| Use AA batteries | PB-E2 grip with AA tray |
My Canon EOS-1V HS Kit
- Canon EOS-1V 35mm Film Camera (2 bodies)
- Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM Lens (camera 1)
- PB-E2 Battery Grip to make it the 1V-HS (AA Batteries)
- Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 Lens (as needed)
- Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens
- Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens (camera 2)
- Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM Lens
Canon EOS-1V Specifications
| Type | 35mm SLR |
| Lens Mount | Canon EF |
| Focus Modes | One shot AF, Predictive AF with AI Servo, Manual |
| Focus Type | Area AF with 45 focusing points |
| Focusing Range | EV 0-18 @ ISO 100 with f/1.4 lens |
| Exposure Modes | Program AE, Shutter priority, Aperture priority, Depth-of-field AE, E-TTL Flash, A-TTL Flash, TTL Flash & Manual |
| Exposure Metering | * 21-Zone Evaluative Metering * Partial Metering (approx. 8.5% of viewfinder at center) * Center Spot Metering (approx. 2.4% of viewfinder at center) * Focusing Point-linked Spot Metering (approx. 2.4% of viewfinder) * Multi-spot Metering (Max. 8 spot metering entries) * Centerweighted Averaging Metering |
| Metering Range @ ISO 100 with f/1.4 Lens | EV 0-20 |
| Shutter Speed | 30 to 1/8000th Second + Bulb with flash sync at 1/250th second Flash sync up to 1/8000th second with EX flashes |
| Exposure Compensation | ±3 EV in 1/3 EV increments |
| Exposure Bracketing | ±3 EV in 1/3 EV increments |
| ISO Range | 25-5000 (DX) 6-6400 in Manual setting |
| Built-in Flash | No |
| Film Wind | Auto single shot, Continuous up to 3.5 frames per second(up to 10 frames per second with BP-E2/NP-E2) |
| Focusing Screen | Interchangeable EC focusing screens (includes overall matte Ec-CIII) |
| Diopter Correction | Adjustable from -3 to +1 Additional diopters available (E) |
| Self Timer | 10 or 2-Second delay |
| Remote Control | Remote switch RS-80N3, or Timer remote controller TC-80N3 |
| PC Terminal | Yes |
| Depth-of-Field Preview | Yes |
| Mirror Lock-Up | Yes (with custom function) |
| Multiple Exposure | Yes (up to 9 exposures per frame) |
| Viewfinder Info | Aperture, Shutter speed, Manual mode, Standard & flash under/over exposure scale, Exposure compensation, AE lock, FE lock, High speed sync, Flash ready, In focus, Depth of field AE, Frame counter, Focus point selecton mode & AF mode |
| LCD Information | AF Ellipse, AF Points, Spot metering circle, Manual exposure setting, AE Lock, Flash readiness, Unsuitable FE lock warning, High-speed sync, Shutter speed, FE Lock, Bulb, Focusing point selection mode, Depth-of-field AE, Aperture, Exposure compensation/flash exposure compensation, In-focus indicator, Exposure level scale, Exposure level indicator, Flash exposure level & Frame counter/countdown indicator |
| Color | Black |
| Power Source | One 2CR5 6-Volt lithium battery |
| Dimensions | 6.3 x 4.7 x 2.8″ (160 x 119 x 71mm) WxHxD |
| Weight | 2.10 lbs (953g) |
Canon EOS‑1V HS — Overview
The Canon EOS-1V HS is a specialized variant of the standard EOS-1V, Canon’s final and most advanced 35mm professional SLR film camera. The “HS” stands for High Speed, and the key difference is that the HS version comes factory-equipped with the PB-E2 Power Booster attached.
What is it?
- The EOS-1V HS is a standard EOS-1V body bundled with the PB-E2 power drive booster.
- The camera body itself is identical to the non-HS version.
- “HS” refers to the increased maximum frame rate when using the PB-E2 with specific battery types.
Ready to take your film photography to the next level? Mastering the art and science of properly scanning and editing your negatives is essential for achieving the best possible results. Whether you’re shooting 35mm, medium format, or large format, a well-executed hybrid workflow can unlock the full tonal range and character of your film. Join me as we dive into proven techniques that preserve the analog soul while delivering beautifully polished images ready for print or screen. For in-depth tutorials, workflow breakdowns, and direct access to my personal guidance, become a member of the Darkroom Diary Premium Membership and start transforming your scans into gallery-worthy prints.
Key Features of the EOS‑1V HS
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Frame Rate | Up to 10 frames per second with PB-E2 + NP-E2 NiMH pack (7 fps with AAs) |
| Power Options | Uses NP-E2 NiMH battery or 8 AA batteries (with insert) |
| Weight & Size | Heavier and taller than standard EOS-1V due to integrated grip |
| Vertical Controls | Full vertical shutter release, AF-ON, AE lock, and focus point controls on PB-E2 |
| Weather Sealing | Pro-grade, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body and grip |
| Autofocus System | 45-point high-density AF with predictive AI Servo |
| Metering | 21-zone Evaluative, Partial, Center-weighted, Spot, Multi-spot, and linked spot |
| Build Quality | Extremely rugged — designed for heavy pro field use |
| Film Transport | Fast, precise, supports high-speed rewinding and mid-roll change |
| Custom Functions | 20 C.Fn + Personal Functions with optional computer interface (ES-E1) |
Power & Speed Breakdown
| Power Source | Max FPS | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NP-E2 (NiMH) | 10 fps | Highest performance |
| 8 AAs (Alkaline) | ~5 fps | Slower and heavier |
| 8 AAs (NiMH) | ~7 fps | Close to NP-E2 performance |
Who Was It For?
- Sports, wildlife, and news photographers who needed blazing-fast FPS and bulletproof reliability.
- The PB-E2 grip made it competitive with the Nikon F5 and modern Canon DSLRs for motor drive performance.
In the Box (Typically):
- EOS-1V camera body
- PB-E2 booster
- Battery tray (for AAs)
- Optional: NP-E2 battery + charger (sold separately)
Custom Functions
Here is the fully verified table of all Custom Functions (C.Fn-0 to C.Fn-19) for the Canon EOS-1V, including the function, available options, and the default setting.
| C.Fn | Function Description | Options | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | Exposure meter calibration to focusing screen | 0 = New Laser Matte; 1 = Laser Matte (Ec-C, Ec-CII, Ec-CIII) | 1 |
| 1 | Auto film rewind mode | 0 = On, normal; 1 = Off; 2 = On, silent; 3 = Off, silent | 0 |
| 2 | Film leader after rewind | 0 = Rewind fully into cassette; 1 = Leave leader out | 0 |
| 3 | Film sensitivity override | 0 = Use DX code; 1 = Use manually set ISO | 0 |
| 4 | AE Lock button AF control | 0 = AE lock only; 1 = Back Button AF; 2 = AF start | 0 |
| 5 | Electronic dial swap & aperture control without lens | 0 = Normal; 1 = Dials swapped; 2 = Aperture control enabled without lens | 0 |
| 6 | Exposure increment steps | 0 = 1/3 stops; 1 = 1/2 stops | 0 |
| 7 | Electronic manual focus with USM lenses | 0 = Disabled; 1 = Enabled | 0 |
| 8 | Frame counter display | 0 = Count up; 1 = Count down; 2 = EOS-1N style | 0 |
| 9 | AEB sequence and cancellation | 0 = 0/-/+ no cancel; 1 = -/0/+ auto cancel | 0 |
| 10 | AF superimposition (viewfinder illumination) | 0 = On; 1 = Off; 2 = On when focused only | 0 |
| 11 | Focusing point selection method | 0 = Default method; 1 = Alternative button config | 0 |
| 12 | Mirror lock-up | 0 = Off; 1 = On | 0 |
| 13 | AF point restriction & spot metering link | 0 = 45 pts, center spot; 1 = 11 pts, linked spot; 2 = 11 pts, center spot; 3 = 9 pts, linked spot | 0 |
| 14 | Auto fill-flash reduction | 0 = Enabled; 1 = Disabled | 0 |
| 15 | Shutter curtain sync | 0 = 1st curtain; 1 = 2nd curtain | 0 |
| 16 | Safety shift in Tv/Av | 0 = Off; 1 = On | 0 |
| 17 | AF point expansion | 0 = Single; 1 = 7-point expansion; 2 = Auto (1, 7, or 13 pts) | 0 |
| 18 | Focus point recall method | 0 = Requires button + main dial; 1 = Recall via button only; 2 = Hold for recall | 0 |
| 19 | Lens AF stop button reassignment | 0 = AF stop; 1 = AF start; 2 = IS on/off; 3 = AF point control; 4 = AE lock; 5 = AF mode toggle | 0 |
Important Confirmations
- Default values are all set to 0, unless Canon explicitly states otherwise (e.g., C.Fn-0 = 1).
- The options above reflect the most complete set listed across Canon’s internal guides and third-party verified documentation.
Notes & Usage
- C.Fn-0 is set to 1 by default for the Ec‑CIII screen; it cannot be grouped into “Personal Function” sets.
- C.Fn-1–19 can be reset all-at-once using the CLR button under the side door.
- To set an individual C.Fn: open side door → Press C.Fn button → Use Main Dial to pick function number → Press C.Fn (or for C.Fn-0, hold for 2 sec) to cycle options → Half-press shutter to confirm.
- For full programmable control, you can bundle selected C.Fn values into up to 3 Personal Function (P.Fn) sets using the M-Fn button, Main Dial, then C.Fn button, finalized with a half shutter press.
Ready to go deeper with your photography? – Join the Darkroom Diary Premium Membership—a creative refuge for film photographers working with 35mm, medium format, or large format. Whether you’re scanning and sharing or crafting fine art prints, you’ll find expert guidance, meaningful conversation, and a supportive community focused on vision, process, and emotional impact. Join today and start creating work that truly matters.
