Canon EOS Elan IIE 35mm SLR Camera Kit w/ 28-80mm Lens

It is slightly different than the EOS Elan II in that it features eye-controlled focus. This allows the user to control the point of focus by looking at specific parts of the image; an on-board sensor follows eye movement and the lens automatically changes focus as the eye moves to points within the frame.

This model features an LCD screen showing exposure information and LED readouts showing custom functions. The viewfinder provides all the information you need to set up your shots, including depth of field, flash, shutter speed and aperture, and much more. The EOS Elan IIe allows for film speeds from ISO 25 to 5,000. The speed is set automatically in 1/3-step increments; it can also be set manually from ISO 6 to 6,400 in 1/3-step increments.

Film is loaded automatically and advanced to the first frame when the camera back is closed. You have the choice of single-frame or continuous shooting at approximately 2.5 frames per second; the film counter reveals frame number. The film is rewound automatically at the end of the roll, or after 36 exposures with a midroll rewind option. The Canon EOS Elan IIe uses any Canon EF lens. A 28-80mm zoom lens is included with this model.

As with all cameras, film matters. Use the lowest speed possible and try to match the film with the development process.

For baby shots, the red eye reduction works better than any previous camera I owned.

I have to admit, I am still learning all of the manual functions... but that is what's so terrific about this camera; its user can move into and out of manual and autofocus controls while learning how to operate the Elan IIe.

The personalized eye-focus option is perfect for families who like to take turns getting behind the camera. I have mine calibrated for use with contacts in or glasses on -and it takes great shots either way.

It is a tough camera that performs well in all kinds of inclement weather and conditions (try a rocking sailboat in the rain photographing breaching humpback whales from several hundred feet! --and still I got some great shots).

I agree with other reviewers, however, that the only real downside to this camera is the lack of focusing points in manual focus mode. I have learned to autofocus and then fine tune in manual --but that doesn't work very well for fast-moving subjects. Also, its autofocus is limiting for extreme close-up subjects. If the user doesn't have a good idea about manual settings (or the desire to even try them)-the sole use of autofocus will limit your picture taking.

This is a great camera for anyone who wants to jump to the next level and break away from the confines of a full-time auto controlled SLR.

The primary thing that gives me trouble is focusing. The auto-focus usually works OK - the view has three small boxes in it, and the camera senses which box you're looking at and automatically focuses on whatever is in that box. In most cases, that's great. But sometimes the auto-focus screws up. When I take a picture of my dog, for instance, it will focus on the tip of his nose instead of his eyes. So sometimes I override the auto-focus, but the manual focus is difficult to use because there's no split-circle indicator to show you when something is in perfect focus.

Other than that, I've been very pleased with the EOS, and I'd recommend it to someone who wants a powerful, easy-to-use camera that gives you a lot of flexibility.