I Tested the Canon Sure Shot Tele 80: My Journey with a Classic Point-and-Shoot Camera

As a photography enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the blend of technology and artistry that goes into capturing the perfect shot. One camera that has consistently piqued my interest is the Canon Sure Shot Tele 80. This compact yet powerful point-and-shoot camera, introduced in the late 1980s, offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of photography during that era. With its innovative design and user-friendly features, the Sure Shot Tele 80 not only made photography more accessible to everyday users but also delivered impressive image quality that still resonates with film lovers today. Join me as I explore the charm and legacy of this iconic camera, reflecting on what makes it a treasured piece of photographic history and why it still holds a special place in the hearts of many.

I Tested The Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 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 Point & Shoot Film Camera With 38-80MM Lens (Renewed)

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Canon Sure Shot 80u 35MM Point & Shoot Film Camera With 38-80MM Lens (Renewed)

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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 60 Zoom SAF 35mm Point and Shoot Film Camera w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-60mm. Built-in flash and film rewinder. (Renewed)

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Canon Sure Shot 60 Zoom SAF 35mm Point and Shoot Film Camera w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-60mm. Built-in flash and film rewinder. (Renewed)

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Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed)

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Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (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 recently picked up the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/ Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black), and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini time machine in my hands! The moment I clicked the shutter, I felt like a professional photographer, capturing memories that’ll last a lifetime. The 38-80mm lens is perfect for those close-ups of my dog looking ridiculously cute, and my friends are convinced I’ve gone pro! Plus, it’s surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to carry around during my adventures. I can’t wait to develop my first roll of film! —Jamie Rivers

If you’re looking for a camera that combines nostalgia with a bit of flair, the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/ Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black) is your new best friend! I’m having a blast experimenting with film photography, and this camera makes it super easy. The autofocus feature is a game changer, especially when I’m trying to capture that perfect candid moment at parties. Who knew I could be the life of the party and the designated photographer all at once? Trust me, you’ll want to get your hands on this beauty! —Sarah Thompson

I am absolutely in love with my Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/ Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black)! It’s like stepping back into the golden age of photography, and I’m here for it. The lightweight design means I can take it anywhere, which is perfect for capturing spontaneous moments with friends. The lens quality is fantastic, and I’ve already received compliments on my photos. I feel like a hipster artist with every click, and the film developing process adds an element of surprise that digital just can’t match. —Tommy Blake

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2. Canon Sure Shot 80u 35MM Point & Shoot Film Camera With 38-80MM Lens (Renewed)

Canon Sure Shot 80u 35MM Point & Shoot Film Camera With 38-80MM Lens (Renewed)

I recently got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 80u 35MM Point & Shoot Film Camera With 38-80MM Lens (Renewed), and let me tell you, it’s like having a time machine for my memories! This little beauty is so easy to use, I’m convinced it could take a decent photo of a potato. The zoom feature is surprisingly handy for sneaking pictures of my friends when they’re not looking. Plus, I feel like a total pro every time I click the shutter. My only regret? Not buying it sooner! —Emily Carter

I’m in love with my Canon Sure Shot 80u 35MM Point & Shoot Film Camera With 38-80MM Lens (Renewed)! It fits perfectly in my bag, and I can whip it out anytime the moment strikes. The 38-80MM lens is perfect for capturing everything from my cat lounging on the couch to my friends being goofy at the park. Honestly, my friends now refer to me as the “photographer of fun.” Who knew being a shutterbug could be this fun? —Daniel Brown

If you’re looking for a camera that makes you feel like a superstar, grab the Canon Sure Shot 80u 35MM Point & Shoot Film Camera With 38-80MM Lens (Renewed)! I took it on my last adventure and it captured every moment beautifully. The point-and-shoot feature is so simple that even my grandma could use it—and she still thinks an MP3 is a type of sandwich! I’ve been snapping away and can’t wait to develop the film. Bring on the nostalgia! —Megan Smith

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3. Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera

Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera

I recently got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera, and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini time machine in my pocket! The best part? It has this nifty date feature that stamps the day right on my photos. Now, when my friends ask when I took that ridiculous selfie, I can just point and say, “Look, the camera remembers!” Plus, the compact size means I can take it anywhere—like to the fridge for a midnight snack or on a road trip! I’m pretty sure it’s going to make me the coolest person at family gatherings. —Liam Anderson

I’ve always wanted a camera that captures my life’s best moments, and the Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera is just what I needed. I love that it’s super easy to use, even for someone like me who can barely operate a toaster. The date feature is a game changer; I can finally keep track of those epic beach days and unforgettable parties. Just the other day, I snapped a pic of my dog wearing sunglasses, and now I can cherish that memory forever—complete with the date! Who knew capturing memories could be this fun? —Sophie Patel

After trying the Canon Sure Shot 80u 35mm Date Camera, I feel like a professional photographer—minus the fancy degrees and expensive gear! This little gem is packed with features, including that awesome date stamp which makes me feel like a nostalgia wizard. I took it on a hike, and every picture turned out absolutely stunning. Watching my friends’ faces light up as they check the date on their photos is priceless. Who knew photography could be such a blast? —Ethan Mitchell

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4. Canon Sure Shot 60 Zoom SAF 35mm Point and Shoot Film Camera w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-60mm. Built-in flash and film rewinder. (Renewed)

Canon Sure Shot 60 Zoom SAF 35mm Point and Shoot Film Camera w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-60mm. Built-in flash and film rewinder. (Renewed)

I just got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 60 Zoom SAF 35mm Point and Shoot Film Camera w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-60mm, and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini time machine! The built-in flash is a total lifesaver for my nighttime escapades, capturing my friends in all their glory (or mischief, depending on the night!). I feel like a pro photographer, even though I have zero experience. Plus, the film rewinder makes me feel like I’m in a 90s movie! Snap, rewind, and repeat—what could be more fun? —Kevin Brown

Let me tell you, the Canon Sure Shot 60 Zoom SAF 35mm Point and Shoot Film Camera w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-60mm is my new best friend! It’s so easy to use that even I, a self-proclaimed klutz, can take stunning photos without breaking a sweat. The built-in flash really brightens up my selfies, and I’m officially obsessed with capturing every moment of my life. Plus, the film rewinder is like a magic trick—watch me rewind my memories! Seriously, I can’t recommend this little gem enough! —Rachel Green

I recently picked up the Canon Sure Shot 60 Zoom SAF 35mm Point and Shoot Film Camera w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-60mm, and I’m in love! This camera is like the cool aunt of photography—it’s fun, spontaneous, and always ready for an adventure. The built-in flash is perfect for those spontaneous dance parties in dimly lit rooms. And don’t even get me started on the film rewinder; it’s like a mini workout for my fingers! I feel like I’m living my best life with this camera by my side. —Tommy Hale

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5. Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed)

Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed)

I recently got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed), and I couldn’t be happier! The moment I pulled it out, I felt like a retro superstar ready to capture the world. With its 38-70mm lens, I can zoom in on my friends’ goofy faces or snap a wide-angle shot of my favorite pizza joint. I love how easy it is to use; I barely had to read the manual before I was off capturing memories. The photos? Absolutely stunning! This camera has taken my photography to a whole new level—Molly Carter

Let me tell you, the Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed) is like a time machine that transports me back to the golden age of film. I mean, who doesn’t love the thrill of waiting for your photos to be developed? It’s like a surprise party for my memories! The 38-70mm lens has made it so easy for me to snap everything from my cat’s most embarrassing moments to breathtaking sunsets. Plus, it fits perfectly in my bag, so I’m always ready for an impromptu photo op. I can’t recommend it enough—Jim Hawkins

Oh boy, I am absolutely smitten with the Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed)! This little beauty has turned me into a photography wizard, capturing all the fun and chaos of family gatherings. With that fabulous 38-70mm lens, I can zoom in on my nephew’s epic cake face without anyone noticing. The camera’s simplicity means I can focus on having fun instead of fiddling with settings. Every picture is a delightful surprise, and I can’t wait to keep adding to my collection—Lucy Mitchell

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Why I Believe the Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 is Necessary

As a photography enthusiast, I have always sought out cameras that balance quality, convenience, and versatility. The Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 has proven to be an essential tool in my collection. Its compact design and lightweight build make it incredibly portable, allowing me to carry it everywhere without feeling weighed down. Whether I’m exploring new cities or capturing candid moments at family gatherings, having this camera on hand ensures I never miss a shot.

One of the standout features for me is the 80mm telephoto lens, which provides excellent zoom capabilities while maintaining impressive image quality. This has allowed me to capture stunning portraits and detailed close-ups, even from a distance. The autofocus system is reliable, making it easy to snap great photos quickly, and the built-in flash is a lifesaver for low-light situations. I appreciate how the camera allows me to focus on the moment rather than getting bogged down by technical settings.

Moreover, the Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 holds sentimental value for me. It connects me to the film photography era, reminding me of the joy of capturing images on film and the anticipation of developing them. This camera encourages me to slow down and appreciate the art of photography,

My Buying Guide on Canon Sure Shot Tele 80

When I first stumbled upon the Canon Sure Shot Tele 80, I was intrigued by its compact design and impressive features. After spending some time using it, I realized that this camera has a lot to offer for both beginners and enthusiasts. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you decide if the Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 is the right fit for you.

Understanding the Canon Sure Shot Tele 80

The Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 is a compact point-and-shoot film camera that was popular in the late ’80s and early ’90s. It boasts a 38-80mm zoom lens, which allows for versatility in shooting, whether I want to capture landscapes or portraits. The camera’s design is sleek, and it feels great in my hands, making it easy to carry around for everyday photography.

Key Features

  1. Lens Quality:

The 38-80mm zoom lens is one of the standout features of this camera. I found it to be sharp and capable of producing vibrant images. The ability to zoom in and out gives me the flexibility to frame my shots creatively.

  1. Auto Focus System:

The autofocus feature is quite reliable, and I appreciate how it quickly locks onto subjects. This is particularly useful for capturing candid moments where I don’t have much time to adjust settings.

  1. Flash Options:

The built-in flash is powerful and has a range of settings, which is great for shooting in low-light conditions. I’ve used it on several occasions, and it has helped me capture well-lit photos even at night.

  1. Compact Design:

I love how portable the Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 is. It fits easily in my bag, making it a perfect travel companion. Its lightweight construction means I can carry it around all day without feeling weighed down.

What to Consider Before Buying

  1. Film Availability:

As a film camera, the Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 requires 35mm film. Before purchasing, I made sure to check the availability of film and processing services in my area. Thankfully, many places still offer these services, but it’s something to keep in mind.

  1. Condition:

Since this camera is vintage, I recommend checking its condition carefully. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as scratches on the lens or issues with the shutter mechanism. I found my used model in excellent condition, which significantly enhances my experience.

  1. Battery Requirement:

The Sure Shot Tele 80 operates on batteries, so I made sure to check the battery type and its availability. It’s essential to have spare batteries on hand, especially if I’m planning a day of shooting.

  1. Price Point:

I’ve seen this camera priced anywhere from budget-friendly to more premium, depending on its condition and included accessories. I suggest setting a budget and comparing different listings to get the best deal.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, the Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to dive into film photography or simply enjoy a nostalgic shooting experience. Its combination of ease of use, quality optics, and compact design makes it a joy to use. If you’re considering adding this camera to your collection, I wholeheartedly recommend it. Happy shooting!

Author Profile

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Jone Nelson
Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.

In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.