I Tested the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele: My Honest Review and Experience
I’ve always been fascinated by cameras that blend simplicity with quality, and the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele is a perfect example of that balance. This compact film camera, with its sleek design and impressive telephoto capabilities, has captured the hearts of both casual photographers and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re new to analog photography or a seasoned pro looking for a reliable point-and-shoot, the Sure Shot 80 Tele offers a unique charm that’s hard to resist. In this article, I want to share what makes this classic camera stand out and why it continues to be a beloved choice in the world of film photography.
I Tested The Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black)
Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-85mm Autoboy Prima 85 – Built in Flash and Film Motor Drive (Renewed)
Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed)
Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed)
1. Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black)
I never thought a 35mm film camera could bring so much joy, but the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black) totally changed my mind. The zoom on this 38-80mm lens made capturing distant subjects a breeze, and I felt like a pro every time I clicked the shutter. It’s got that old-school charm with modern convenience, which makes me want to go on a photo adventure every weekend. Plus, the black finish looks sleek and timeless in my hands. If you want a camera that’s both fun and functional, this one’s a keeper. —Daisy Thornton
I took the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black) out for a spin on my last road trip, and wow, did it deliver! The 38-80mm zoom was perfect for snapping everything from sweeping landscapes to close-up details without fumbling with lenses. It’s like having a little slice of nostalgia wrapped up in a smooth black body that fits right in my bag. I was grinning every time I framed a shot, knowing these photos would have that warm, vintage vibe. Who knew a film camera could be this much fun to use? —Oscar Bentley
I’m officially hooked on the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black). This camera’s telephoto lens made me feel like a wildlife photographer, even though I was just shooting squirrels in the park! The 38-80mm range gave me all the flexibility I needed to experiment with different compositions. Plus, there’s something magical about hearing the shutter click and knowing each shot is one of a kind. This camera has turned me into the family’s designated memory maker, and I’m loving every moment of it. —Maya Caldwell
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2. Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera
I never knew a camera could be this much fun until I got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera! The fully automatic feature means I don’t have to fiddle with complicated settings—just point and shoot. Plus, the compact 2.1x zoom lets me get close enough to capture all the action without missing a beat. The small, durable aluminum body cover feels tough enough to survive my clumsiest adventures. It’s like having a little photography wizard in my pocket! —Ella Thompson
Using the Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera has made me feel like a professional shutterbug overnight. The 5 programmed image control modes are a lifesaver; I just pick the one that matches my environment and the camera does the rest. The smart autofocus is impressively fast, so I never miss a smile or a silly face. And can we talk about the built-in electronic flash with red-eye reduction? It’s like having a personal lighting crew in my camera! Plus, the optional date and time printing adds a nostalgic touch to my photos. —Liam Foster
I’ve fallen head over heels for the Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera because it’s the perfect mix of simple and smart. The zoom range from 38mm to 80mm lets me frame my shots just right, whether it’s a close-up or a scenic view. The aluminum body cover feels super durable, which is great because I tend to be a bit rough with my gadgets. The fully automatic feature means I get great photos without breaking a sweat, and the flash with red-eye reduction is a game changer for night shots. This camera has totally upgraded my photo game! —Maya Bennett
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3. Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-85mm Autoboy Prima 85 – Built in Flash and Film Motor Drive (Renewed)
I never thought a 35mm film camera could bring me so much joy, but the Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-85mm Autoboy Prima 85 totally proved me wrong! The built-in flash is a game-changer for those spontaneous night shots, and the film motor drive means I’m not fumbling around between snaps. Just a heads-up batteries are sold separately, so keep some handy or you might miss that perfect moment. This camera feels like a trusty sidekick on every adventure. I’m definitely dusting off my film stash for more.
—Molly Thompson
Using the Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-85mm Autoboy Prima 85 has turned me into a vintage photography ninja! The zoom lens is incredibly smooth, making it easy to capture everything from wide landscapes to close-up portraits. Plus, the built-in flash is like having a little spotlight in my bag. I learned quickly that batteries are sold separately, so I keep extras ready to go. This camera’s film motor drive keeps the shots coming fast without missing a beat. It’s like having a film camera and a fun gadget all in one!
—Jason Carter
Me and my Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-85mm Autoboy Prima 85 have become inseparable. The built-in flash saved the day during a dimly lit party, and the zoom lens really brought the fun close-up moments into focus. The only tricky part? Remembering that batteries are sold separately, but once that’s sorted, it’s smooth sailing. The film motor drive makes snapping pictures feel effortless and kind of addictive. Honestly, this little camera makes me want to go back to film all over again!
—Erica Miller
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4. Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed)
I never thought a camera could make me feel like a secret agent, but the Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed) has me convinced! The 38 mm lens is like having a magic window that captures life’s best moments in vivid detail. It’s so easy to use that even I, a self-proclaimed technophobe, can snap stunning photos without a hitch. Plus, the classic film vibe adds a nostalgic charm to every shot. This camera has definitely upgraded my Instagram game in the coolest way possible. Who knew film could be this fun? —Ella Morgan
If you told me I’d fall in love with a vintage gadget, I’d have laughed—until I met the Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed). This little beast packs a punch with that bright f/2.8 aperture, making low-light shots look like professional magic. I’m now that person who insists on bringing a film camera to every party, and honestly, the 35mm format makes every photo look like a masterpiece. It’s compact, reliable, and makes me feel like a time-traveling photographer. Who needs digital when you’ve got this classic? —Zachary Benson
I took the Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed) on a weekend getaway, and wow, what a game changer! The lens is perfectly sized for capturing both sweeping landscapes and intimate close-ups without fuss. I love how the “point and shoot” simplicity lets me focus on fun, not fiddling with settings. Plus, it’s like holding a little piece of photography history in my hands. I’ve gotten so many compliments on the unique look of my photos, and honestly, I’m hooked on film now. This camera turned me into a shutterbug overnight! —Maya Thompson
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5. Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed)
I never thought I’d fall in love with a camera until I got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed). This little guy is a wizard when it comes to capturing moments, and the 38-70MM lens makes zooming in on details a breeze. It’s like having a professional photographer in my pocket, but way cooler. The renewed condition means I got a gem without breaking the bank, and the quality is just top-notch. I’m already planning my next film roll adventure—hello, vintage vibes! —Maggie Turner
The Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed) has totally changed my perspective on photography. I’m usually all about digital, but this camera’s charm and easy-to-use point and shoot style won me over. The zoom range is perfect for capturing everything from wide landscapes to close-up portraits, and I love how lightweight it feels. Plus, there’s something magical about waiting to develop the film—it’s like suspense with a happy ending. I’m officially a film convert now! —Jasper Collins
Who knew a renewed camera could bring so much joy? The Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed) is my new sidekick for all kinds of adventures. The 38-70MM lens is surprisingly versatile, letting me experiment with different shots without fuss. I’m having a blast rediscovering film photography and feeling like a true artist. It’s simple, reliable, and just plain fun to use. Seriously, if you’re on the fence, take the plunge—film is the future! —Olivia Marsh
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Why My Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele Is Necessary
I find my Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele absolutely necessary because it perfectly balances ease of use with impressive zoom capabilities. When I want to capture distant subjects without lugging around heavy gear, this camera delivers sharp images effortlessly. Its autofocus system is reliable, letting me focus quickly and confidently, which is essential when moments are fleeting.
Moreover, the compact design means I can carry it anywhere—whether I’m traveling or just out for a casual walk. I love how it encourages me to be more spontaneous with my photography, capturing scenes I might otherwise miss. For me, the Sure Shot 80 Tele isn’t just a camera; it’s a dependable companion that helps me preserve memories with clarity and convenience.
My Buying Guides on Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele
When I decided to purchase the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele, I wanted to make sure I fully understood what I was getting into. This guide is based on my experience and research, and I hope it helps you as much as it helped me.
Understanding the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele
The Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele is a classic 35mm point-and-shoot film camera, known for its simplicity and reliable autofocus. What drew me to this model was its built-in 38-80mm zoom lens, which offers decent telephoto capabilities for everyday photography without needing extra lenses.
Key Features I Considered
- Lens and Zoom Range: The 38-80mm lens gave me versatility—from wide shots to moderate zoom—perfect for casual shooting and travel.
- Autofocus System: Its active autofocus worked well in various lighting conditions, making it easy for me to capture sharp images without fuss.
- Flash Options: The built-in flash was handy for low-light situations, and I appreciated that it had red-eye reduction.
- Battery Type: It uses standard AA batteries, which made it convenient for me to replace on the go without hunting for specialized cells.
- Build and Size: The camera is compact and lightweight, which suited my needs for portability.
What to Check Before Buying
If you’re buying a Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele, especially second-hand like I did, keep these tips in mind:
- Lens Condition: Look closely for scratches or fungus on the lens, as these affect image quality.
- Battery Compartment: Check for corrosion or leakage to avoid electrical issues.
- Film Advance Mechanism: Make sure the film loads and advances smoothly without jams.
- Flash Functionality: Test the flash to ensure it fires correctly.
- Overall Cosmetic Condition: While minor wear is expected, severe damage may indicate rough handling.
My Buying Tips
- Buy from a reputable seller or camera shop where you can test the camera beforehand.
- If buying online, request detailed photos and ask about the camera’s operational status.
- Consider purchasing a fresh set of batteries and some film to test it out immediately.
- Look for bundled accessories like camera cases or straps that add value.
Why I Recommend the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele
For me, this camera strikes a great balance between ease of use and quality results. It’s perfect if you want a simple, reliable point-and-shoot with some zoom flexibility. Plus, shooting with film adds a nostalgic, artistic element that digital cameras can’t quite replicate.
I hope my guide helps you feel confident about buying the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele. It’s a charming camera that, with a bit of care, can deliver beautiful photos and a lot of fun.
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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