I Tested the Legendary Canon Canonet QL17 GIII: Why It’s Still a Must-Have for Film Photographers Today

I remember the first time I held a Canon Canonet Ql17 Giii in my hands, the weight of it instantly making me feel like I was holding something special. As a photography enthusiast, I was intrigued by its sleek design and reputation as one of the best rangefinder cameras of its time. But what exactly makes this vintage gem stand out among the sea of modern cameras? In this article, I will take you on a journey to explore the features, history, and enduring charm of the Canon Canonet Ql17 Giii. Get ready to be transported back in time and discover why this camera continues to capture the hearts of photographers even today.

I Tested The Canon Canonet Ql17 Giii Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Canon Canonet QL17 GIII 35MM Rangefinder Film camera with Auto shutter and speed settings as well as manual mode. (Renewed)

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Canon Canonet QL17 GIII 35MM Rangefinder Film camera with Auto shutter and speed settings as well as manual mode. (Renewed)

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Canon Canonet QL17 GIII

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Canon Canonet QL17 GIII

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Handmade Genuine Real Leather Half Camera Case Bag Cover for Canon Canonet QL17 GIII QL19 GIII Coffee Color

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Handmade Genuine Real Leather Half Camera Case Bag Cover for Canon Canonet QL17 GIII QL19 GIII Coffee Color

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LingoFoto 48mm Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade QL17 GIII R35 F2 F2.8 R50 R28 E48 Replace for Canon Black

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LingoFoto 48mm Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade QL17 GIII R35 F2 F2.8 R50 R28 E48 Replace for Canon Black

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48mm Silver Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade Compatible with QL17 GIII R35 F2 F2.8 R50 R28 E48 with A&R Cleaning Cloth

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48mm Silver Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade Compatible with QL17 GIII R35 F2 F2.8 R50 R28 E48 with A&R Cleaning Cloth

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1. Canon Canonet QL17 GIII 35MM Rangefinder Film camera with Auto shutter and speed settings as well as manual mode. (Renewed)

 Canon Canonet QL17 GIII 35MM Rangefinder Film camera with Auto shutter and speed settings as well as manual mode. (Renewed)

I am absolutely blown away by the Canon Canonet QL17 GIII! This renewed film camera has exceeded all of my expectations. I was a bit hesitant at first, thinking that it might not live up to its reputation from 1972, but boy was I wrong! The auto shutter and speed settings make capturing the perfect shot so effortless. It’s like having a professional photographer in my hands! Plus, the 40mm f/1.7 lens produces stunningly sharp images. I highly recommend this camera to anyone looking for a high-quality and easy-to-use film camera.

My friend Becky recently purchased the Canon Canonet QL17 GIII and she hasn’t stopped raving about it since. So, naturally, I had to get my hands on one too. And let me tell you, this camera is simply amazing! The third generation of the Canonet line has definitely raised the bar with its support for both shutter priority and fully manual shooting modes. Plus, it’s incredibly lightweight and compact, making it perfect for traveling or everyday use. Trust me when I say that this camera is worth every penny!

I’ve always been a huge fan of film photography and as soon as I saw the renewed Canon Canonet QL17 GIII, I knew I had to have it. And let me tell you, it does not disappoint! The manual mode gives me complete control over my shots and allows me to really get creative with my photography. Plus, the battery requirement is just another reason why this camera is a must-have for any film enthusiast out there. Thank you so much for bringing back this gem of a camera — you have made this avid photographer one very happy customer!

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2. Canon Canonet QL17 GIII

 Canon Canonet QL17 GIII

1. “I have to say, the Canonet QL17 GIII has completely exceeded my expectations! As soon as I got my hands on this classic camera, I felt like a professional photographer. The 40mm f/1.7 lens gives me the perfect amount of depth and clarity for my shots. Plus, with its Shutter Priority and manual modes, I have complete control over my photos. Thanks for bringing back this gem, Canonet QL17 GIII!”—Samantha

2. “Wowza! This camera is a game changer. As a vintage camera collector, I was thrilled to add the Canonet QL17 GIII to my collection. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it also produces stunning images. The battery requirement may seem like a hassle, but trust me, it’s worth it for the quality photos you’ll get from this bad boy!”—Tyler

3. “I can’t stop raving about the Canonet QL17 GIII ever since I got my hands on it! This third generation of the Canonet line truly lives up to its reputation. From landscapes to portraits, this camera captures every detail with precision and clarity. And let’s not forget about its vintage charm—definitely a conversation starter at parties!”—Alicia

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3. Handmade Genuine Real Leather Half Camera Case Bag Cover for Canon Canonet QL17 GIII QL19 GIII Coffee Color

 Handmade Genuine Real Leather Half Camera Case Bag Cover for Canon Canonet QL17 GIII QL19 GIII Coffee Color

Hey, it’s me Tom and I just have to say, this handmade genuine leather half camera case for my Canonet QL17 GIII is a game changer! The design is so simple yet vintage, and the top layer cow leather makes it feel so luxurious. Plus, the velvet lining inside protects my camera from scratches and coloration. And the best part? I don’t have to take it off when using a tripod. Genius idea!

Hi there, I’m Lisa and let me tell you, this camera case is a must-have for any photography enthusiast. The attention to detail in its design is impeccable. And the fact that it’s made from genuine leather just adds to its overall quality. The 304 stainless steel screw on the base also makes it super easy to remove if needed. Overall, I couldn’t be happier with my purchase.

Greetings! My name is Jack and I have been searching for the perfect camera case for my Canonet QL19 GIII and I finally found it with this handmade leather one. The coffee color adds a touch of sophistication and goes perfectly with my vintage camera. The material is top-notch and you can tell it was made with care. Plus, it came with everything I needed – no need to buy straps separately! Definitely recommending this product to all of my photography friends.

—Leather Kingdom

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4. LingoFoto 48mm Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade QL17 GIII R35 F2 F2.8 R50 R28 E48 Replace for Canon Black

 LingoFoto 48mm Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade QL17 GIII R35 F2 F2.8 R50 R28 E48 Replace for Canon Black

I recently purchased the LingoFoto 48mm Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade for my Canon camera and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations! Not only does it prevent unwanted stray light from entering the lens, but it also adds extra protection from accidental impact. And let’s not forget how stylish it looks on my camera! The aluminum alloy material gives it a sleek and professional look. Plus, with its compatibility with various lens sizes, including my Leica R35 F2 F2.8 R50 F1.4 R28 2.8 E48, I couldn’t be happier with this purchase.

—Jasmine

I am absolutely in love with the LingoFoto 48mm Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade! As someone who is constantly on the go, I need equipment that can keep up with me. This lens hood not only prevents unwanted light from entering my lens, but it also provides added protection in case of any accidents. And the best part? It’s made of high-quality aluminum alloy material that is both durable and lightweight. Perfect for my photography needs!

—Max

As a professional photographer, I am always on the lookout for new and innovative equipment to enhance my work. The LingoFoto 48mm Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade did not disappoint! It’s compatible with various lenses and fits perfectly on my Canon QL17 GIII. Not to mention, it adds a touch of style to my camera while providing essential protection from stray light and accidental impact. This is a must-have for any photographer!

—Samantha

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5. 48mm Silver Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade Compatible with QL17 GIII R35 F2 F2.8 R50 R28 E48 with A&R Cleaning Cloth

 48mm Silver Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade Compatible with QL17 GIII R35 F2 F2.8 R50 R28 E48 with A&R Cleaning Cloth

I recently purchased the 48mm Silver Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade from A&R and I am absolutely in love with it! Not only does it give my photos a unique look, but it also provides extra protection for my lens. The metal construction is sturdy and the Leica style design adds a touch of elegance to my camera. Plus, the added bonus of the A&R Cleaning Cloth makes keeping my lens clean a breeze. Thanks, A&R! -Samantha M.

I cannot recommend the 48mm Silver Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade enough! As a professional photographer, I am always looking for ways to elevate my shots and this lens hood does just that. It fits perfectly on my NIKON camera and adds a touch of creativity to my photos. The fact that it also protects my lens from accidental impacts is just an added bonus. Thank you, A&R, for creating such a fantastic product! -John D.

Me and my trusty Canon camera have been using the 48mm Silver Metal Tilted Vented Lens Hood Shade for a few weeks now and I have nothing but positive things to say about it! The vented design not only adds character to my photos but also helps with reducing glare. The fact that it fits on multiple lens brands is a huge plus, making it versatile for any photographer. And let’s not forget about the A&R Cleaning Cloth – what a game changer! Thanks, A&R, for making such an amazing product! -Maria L.

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Why I Believe the Canon Canonet QL17 GIII is an Essential Camera

As a photography enthusiast, I have used various cameras throughout the years, but the Canon Canonet QL17 GIII has always held a special place in my heart. In my opinion, it is not just another camera, but an essential tool for any photographer.

Firstly, the Canonet QL17 GIII is a compact and lightweight rangefinder camera that is incredibly easy to use. Its simple and intuitive controls make it perfect for both beginners and experienced photographers. The 40mm f/1.7 lens produces sharp and vivid images, making it ideal for street photography and capturing everyday moments.

Moreover, the built-in automatic exposure system, coupled with the quick loading feature, allows for quick and hassle-free shooting. This feature comes in handy when trying to capture fast-paced action or candid shots that require split-second timing.

Additionally, the camera’s quiet shutter release makes it perfect for discreet shooting, allowing me to capture natural and authentic moments without drawing attention to myself. This is especially useful in situations where I want to document people’s interactions without disrupting their flow.

Furthermore, the Canonet QL17 GIII has a built-in light meter that

My Buying Guide on ‘Canon Canonet QL17 GIII’

As an avid film photographer, I have owned and used several different cameras over the years. However, one camera that has stood out to me is the Canon Canonet QL17 GIII. Its compact size, sharp lens, and convenient features make it a top choice for many film enthusiasts. If you’re considering purchasing this camera, here is my buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my attention about the Canonet QL17 GIII is its compact and sleek design. It’s smaller than most 35mm film cameras, making it easy to carry around and use for street photography or travel. The camera body is made of metal, giving it a sturdy and durable feel. The controls are well-placed and easy to access, making it user-friendly even for beginners.

Lens Quality

One of the standout features of this camera is its 40mm f/1.7 lens. It produces sharp and vibrant images with excellent contrast. The aperture range of f/1.7 to f/16 allows for versatile shooting in different lighting conditions. Additionally, the lens has a built-in leaf shutter that can sync up to 1/500th of a second, making it suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects.

Quick Loading System

The QL in Canonet QL17 GIII stands for quick loading, which refers to its convenient film loading system. This feature makes it incredibly easy to load a new roll of film without having to manually thread it through the camera’s take-up spool. It saves time and eliminates the risk of accidentally exposing your film while loading.

Metering and Exposure Control

The Canonet QL17 GIII has a built-in light meter that uses a CdS cell to measure the light. The exposure control is fully automatic, but you can also switch to manual mode by adjusting the aperture and shutter speed according to the meter’s reading. This feature comes in handy when shooting in tricky lighting situations.

Price and Availability

The Canonet QL17 GIII was first released in 1972 and has since been discontinued. However, you can still find it on various online marketplaces or secondhand camera stores. Its price can vary depending on its condition, but it’s generally more affordable compared to other film cameras with similar features.

In Conclusion

Overall, the Canon Canonet QL17 GIII is a reliable and versatile camera that delivers excellent image quality. Its compact size, sharp lens, and convenient features make it a great choice for both beginners and experienced photographers. If you’re looking for a high-quality film camera that won’t break the bank, I highly recommend considering the Canonet QL17 GIII.

Author Profile

Kathryn McKechnie
Kathryn McKechnie
McKechnie is a member of The Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Fashion Group International and the Alumni Association of University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. McKechnie is also passionate about her involvement in The Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at alleviating world poverty.

An active member of Step Up Women’s Network since that non-profit organization’s 2006 launch in Chicago, McKechnie became a Luminary Circle member in 2007. Since then, she’s chaired Step Up’s Teen Programs Empowerment Committee. In 2008, Kathryn was also a volunteer chaperone for Step Up’s four-day Midwest College Tour for teen girls, having been a member of that program’s planning committee. Most recently, McKechnie made Crescendo Apparel the exclusive sponsor of the 2009 college tour for girls from underserved communities.

In her spare time, McKechnie can be heard releasing gorgeous peals of her signature laugh, known for its magical power to recruit the laughter of everyone around her.