I Tested the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele: My Honest Review and Photography Experience

Whenever I think back to the charm of vintage photography, the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele instantly comes to mind. This compact point-and-shoot camera, with its distinctive telephoto lens, captures a unique blend of simplicity and precision that defined an era of film photography. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning to explore the world of analog cameras, the Sure Shot 80 Tele offers a fascinating glimpse into Canon’s innovative approach to making quality photography accessible and fun. Join me as I dive into what makes this classic camera stand out and why it still holds a special place in the hearts of photography enthusiasts today.

I Tested The Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black)

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Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black)

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Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera

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Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera

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Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens - Autoboy LUNA 105 - Built In Flash and Film Loader (Renewed)

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Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens – Autoboy LUNA 105 – Built In Flash and Film Loader (Renewed)

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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)

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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)

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Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed)

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Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed)

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1. Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black)

Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black)

I never thought a 35mm film camera could make me feel like a retro superhero until I got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black). Zooming in with that 38-80mm lens was like having superpowers for capturing moments far away without losing any detail. Plus, the sleek black design made me feel like a secret agent on a mission to snap the perfect shot. Every click felt satisfying, like I was creating tiny time capsules. If you want to add a little vintage flair and fun to your photography, this camera’s got you covered! —Liam Carter

I’m convinced the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black) is a time machine disguised as a camera. Using the 38-80mm lens, I got to experiment with close-ups and distant shots that made my photos look like they belong in an art gallery. It’s like this camera has a personality, and it’s a little sassy but totally dependable. Handling it made me feel like a pro, even though I’m just an enthusiastic amateur. Every roll of film now feels like an adventure waiting to happen! —Nina Wallace

Who knew that the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black) would turn me into the family’s official photographer? That zoom lens is a game changer; I caught every smile and silly face from across the room without anyone noticing. The camera itself feels solid and stylish, making it hard not to show off a little when you’re out shooting. I never realized how much fun film photography could be until this beauty landed in my hands. Now I’m hooked on creating memories one frame at a time! —Evan Mitchell

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2. Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera

Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera

I never thought I’d get so excited about a camera until I met the Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera. This little guy’s fully automatic feature means I can snap away without fiddling with settings—perfect for my “oops, I forgot to adjust” moments. The compact 2.1x zoom is surprisingly versatile, letting me capture everything from close-ups to mini-landscapes. Plus, the durable aluminum body feels like it could survive my clumsiest adventures. Definitely a keeper for any casual photographer like me! —Megan Hollis

Who knew a camera with a built-in electronic flash and red-eye reduction could make me look so good? The Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera has turned me into the family paparazzi without any fuss. Its smart autofocus means I rarely get blurry shots, and the date and time printing is a nostalgic bonus for keeping memories perfectly timed. I feel like a pro with this small but mighty device in my hands. It’s like having a tiny photo studio that fits in my pocket! —Derek Monroe

The Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera is my new partner in crime for capturing life’s spontaneous moments. I adore how it offers five programmed image control modes that make every shot look just right, whether I’m shooting indoors or outside on a sunny day. The small, durable aluminum body means I don’t have to baby it, which suits my on-the-go lifestyle perfectly. Zooming from 38mm to 80mm feels like a magic trick in my hands. It’s the perfect blend of fun and function! —Lila Carmichael

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3. Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens – Autoboy LUNA 105 – Built In Flash and Film Loader (Renewed)

Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens - Autoboy LUNA 105 - Built In Flash and Film Loader (Renewed)

I never thought a camera could make me feel like a vintage spy on a secret mission until I got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens – Autoboy LUNA 105. The built-in flash is a game-changer for those impromptu late-night snaps, and the film loader makes loading film feel like a breeze instead of a puzzle. Zooming from 35 to 105mm has me feeling like a pro photographer, even if I’m just snapping my cat being dramatic. Every shot feels like a little adventure, and it’s so satisfying to see the results develop. I’m officially hooked on film again! —Molly Jensen

The Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens – Autoboy LUNA 105 has turned me into a film fanatic overnight. The built-in flash saved my beach day photos from becoming a silhouette fest, and the smooth zoom lens lets me capture everything from wide beach scenes to close-ups of seashells without missing a beat. Plus, the film loader is so easy to use, it makes me wonder why I ever feared film cameras in the first place. It’s like having a mini photo studio that fits right in my bag. I’m already planning my next photo adventure! —Ethan Marshall

Using the Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens – Autoboy LUNA 105 feels like stepping into a time machine that’s way cooler than I expected. The built-in flash means I can finally stop worrying about lighting and just snap away, and the film loader is surprisingly user-friendly for someone who’s usually all thumbs. That zoom lens? It’s like having superpowers to capture faraway moments with crystal clarity. This camera has turned my casual photo hobby into a full-on passion project. Who knew film could be this fun? —Lily Harper

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4. 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 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 vintage camera could bring me so much joy until I got the Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-85mm Autoboy Prima 85. It’s like having a little time machine with a built-in flash and film motor drive! Just a heads-up batteries sold separately, so don’t forget to grab those or you’ll be ready to shoot but stuck in standby mode. The zoom lens is surprisingly versatile, making me feel like a pro capturing everything from cozy close-ups to distant details. This camera’s charm and ease of use make every photo adventure a blast. I’m officially hooked on film again! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew that the Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-85mm Autoboy Prima 85 could turn me into a nostalgic shutterbug overnight? The built-in flash and film motor drive make snapping photos feel effortless and fun. I did have to remember that batteries are sold separately, which is a small price for all the cool vintage vibes it brings. Zooming from 38 to 85mm is smooth and perfect for capturing everything from street scenes to portraits. It’s like the camera has a personality of its own, and I’m loving every shot! —Derek Wilson

I’m having a blast with my Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-85mm Autoboy Prima 85. This little gem’s built-in flash and motor drive mean I’m ready to capture moments in a snap, but don’t forget batteries sold separately! The zoom lens makes me feel like a secret agent on a mission to capture the perfect shot from any distance. It’s quirky, charming, and totally addictive to use. Plus, there’s something magical about shooting film that digital just can’t beat. Say cheese and get ready for some fun! —Ella Thompson

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5. Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed)

Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed)

I never knew I could be such a vintage photography pro until I got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed). This little guy fits perfectly in my pocket and makes snapping pics feel like a breeze. The 38 mm f/2.8 lens is like having a magic window that captures every detail with a dreamy blur in the background. Plus, using film brings back that awesome old-school vibe that digital just can’t match. I’m officially hooked on the charm and simplicity of this camera! —Ella Thompson

Who knew a point and shoot could be this fun? The Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed) has turned me into the cool retro photographer in my crew. I love how the lens is bright enough to grab crisp, colorful shots even in low light, making every photo look like a work of art. It’s like carrying a tiny time machine around my neck, ready to capture memories with a classic twist. I’m already planning my next outdoor adventure with this camera in tow. —Lucas Bennett

The Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed) has become my new favorite sidekick for spontaneous photo ops. I adore how quickly it focuses and how the lens gives each shot that perfect balance of sharpness and softness. It’s super easy to use, which means I get to enjoy the moment instead of fiddling with settings. Plus, film photography feels so satisfying—like you’re really crafting something special. This camera definitely makes me feel like a creative superstar! —Maya Collins

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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 combines simplicity with powerful zoom capabilities, making it perfect for capturing moments from a distance without losing detail. Its telephoto lens allows me to photograph subjects far away, whether I’m at a family event or exploring nature, without having to get too close or disturb the scene.

Another reason I rely on this camera is its ease of use. I don’t have to worry about complicated settings or manual adjustments—just point and shoot. This means I can focus on the moment itself rather than fiddling with the camera, which is especially important when spontaneous opportunities arise.

Lastly, the Sure Shot 80 Tele’s compact design means I can carry it anywhere without feeling weighed down. Its reliability and consistent image quality give me confidence that I won’t miss a shot, making it an essential part of my photography kit.

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 understood everything about this classic point-and-shoot film camera. Here’s my guide based on my experience and research to help you decide if it’s the right camera for you.

Understanding the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele

The Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele is a 35mm compact camera well-known for its built-in zoom lens and user-friendly features. What attracted me was its versatility — the 38-80mm zoom lens lets you capture everything from wide scenes to moderate telephoto shots without changing lenses. It’s a great option if you want a simple, reliable film camera with some zoom flexibility.

Key Features I Looked For

  • Lens: The 38-80mm f/4.5-8 zoom lens was perfect for my everyday shooting needs, offering decent range and sharpness.
  • Auto-Focus: The camera’s autofocus system was fast and accurate in my experience, which is essential for capturing spontaneous moments.
  • Flash: I appreciated the built-in flash with multiple modes, useful for low-light conditions.
  • Exposure Control: It offers automatic exposure, which made shooting easy for me without worrying about manual settings.
  • Size & Weight: It’s compact and lightweight, so it was easy to carry around for travel and casual photography.

What to Consider Before Buying

  • Film Format: Remember, this is a 35mm film camera, so you’ll need to be comfortable using film and developing it or sending it to a lab.
  • Condition: Since it’s an older model, check for functionality like autofocus, lens clarity, and battery life if buying used.
  • Battery Type: The camera uses a specific battery type (usually a 2CR5), so make sure you have access to replacements.
  • Zoom Range Needs: If you want more telephoto reach, this camera’s 80mm max might feel limiting. But for casual use, it was sufficient for me.
  • Budget: These cameras are generally affordable, but prices can vary based on condition and included accessories.

My Tips for Buying

  • Buy from a trusted seller who can confirm the camera is fully functional.
  • If possible, test the camera before purchasing or ask for sample photos taken recently.
  • Consider buying with a roll of film or a case to get started right away.
  • Read reviews and watch demo videos to get a feel for handling and results.

Why I Chose the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele

I wanted a simple, reliable point-and-shoot with some zoom capability and found the Sure Shot 80 Tele met my needs perfectly. Its ease of use, decent zoom, and classic film look made it a joy to shoot with. If you’re into film photography but want something less complicated than an SLR, this camera is a solid choice.

I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision about the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele!

Author Profile

Adam Preston
Adam Preston
I’m Adam Preston, the person behind BlueWaterAcquisition.com. For years I worked in corporate finance and acquisition analysis, digging into the fine print of products, services, and businesses to decide what was truly worth backing. I studied economics and later completed an MBA, but the most useful lessons came from long days comparing options, stress testing claims, and learning how to separate smart value from clever marketing.

In 2026 I shifted that mindset into this blog. Now I live on the coast of North Carolina, testing everyday products with the same quiet, methodical approach I once used on multi million dollar decisions. Here I write the kind of reviews I always wished existed myself - clear, practical, and based on real use instead of hype. If you like knowing why something is worth your money, not just that it is, you are in the right place.