Quick Answer

To start shooting with the Canon EOS Rebel 2000, load a roll of 35mm film, set your ISO, choose a shooting mode, and you're ready for your first frame.

Why the Rebel 2000 Is a Great First Film SLR

The Canon EOS Rebel 2000 brings familiar, modern-feeling controls to the magic of 35mm film. Released in 1999 (and called the EOS Kiss III in Japan), it offers autofocus and automatic exposure modes that make the transition from digital straightforward.

This means you can focus on composition and film characteristics rather than wrestling with manual settings. However, it's not a fully manual vintage body—if you want to learn zone focusing or fully manual metering, you might prefer an older SLR like the Canon AE-1.

Step-by-Step Setup for Your First Roll

  1. Insert fresh batteries: Open the battery compartment on the grip and insert two CR123A batteries (check polarity). The camera won't function without them. Always carry spare CR123A batteries—they drain faster in cold weather.
  2. Load the 35mm film: Open the back, place the film cartridge in the left chamber, pull the leader across to the orange mark on the take-up spool, close the back, and let the camera auto-advance to frame 1. Make sure the film leader is firmly on the spool; if it slips, you'll shoot blank frames.
  3. Set the ISO: The Rebel 2000 reads DX codes on film canisters automatically. If you're using a film without a DX code or want to push/pull, set ISO manually via the ISO button and dial. Double-check the ISO in the viewfinder—wrong ISO means wrong exposure.
  4. Choose a shooting mode: For beginners, set the mode dial to 'Full Auto' (green rectangle) and let the camera handle focus and exposure. For more control, try 'P' (Program) or 'Av' (Aperture Priority). Start with Full Auto for your first roll, then experiment with Av to control depth of field.
  5. Focus and shoot: Press the shutter button halfway to autofocus—you'll hear a beep when locked. Then press fully to take the shot. The camera advances the film automatically. For moving subjects, switch to AI Servo AF mode to keep focus tracking.
  6. Rewind when done: When the film reaches the end, the camera auto-rewinds. Wait until you hear the motor stop, then open the back to remove the cartridge. Never open the back before rewinding—it will ruin your entire roll.

The Camera We Recommend

  • Canon EOS Rebel 2000 | 35mm Film Camera: The Canon EOS Rebel 2000 with 28-80mm lens is a 35mm SLR that we've lovingly restored so your first roll feels exciting instead of intimidating. This means you can trust the camera to work reliably out of the box, letting you focus on learning film photography without worrying about mechanical issues.

    Canon EOS Rebel 2000 | 35mm Film Camera

    Canon EOS Rebel 2000 | 35mm Film Camera