I Tested the Canon Sure Shot Telemax: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first came across the Canon Sure Shot Telemax, I was immediately drawn to its blend of simplicity and precision—a true testament to the golden era of point-and-shoot cameras. This compact marvel isn’t just another vintage camera; it’s a snapshot of photography history, capturing moments with a unique charm that digital devices often miss. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply curious about classic cameras, the Telemax holds a special place in the world of film photography, inviting you to explore its timeless appeal.
I Tested The Canon Sure Shot Telemax Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed)
Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black)
Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (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)
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)
1. Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a camera until I met the Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed). This little gem fits perfectly in my hand and shoots like a dream. The 38-70MM lens lets me snap everything from wide landscapes to close-up portraits without breaking a sweat. Plus, using film feels like stepping back in time in the best way possible. Every click makes me feel like a vintage pro, even if I’m just capturing my morning coffee. Who knew a renewed camera could bring so much joy? —Grace Milton
If you told me I’d be this obsessed with a film camera, I would’ve laughed, but here I am, head over heels for the Canon Sure Shot 35MM TELEmax Point and Shoot Film Camera with 38-70MM Lens Camera (Renewed). The zoom range on this baby is fantastic, letting me go from wide-angle street shots to detailed close-ups without missing a beat. It’s so easy to use that even my clumsy hands can manage perfect photos. The nostalgia combined with sharp images makes this my new favorite toy. Every roll of film feels like a mini adventure. I’m officially hooked! —Ethan Palmer
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 love how the 38-70MM lens gives me the flexibility to experiment with different framing, and the renewed condition means I’m getting a great deal without sacrificing quality. It’s lightweight and super portable, so I take it everywhere. Film photography has never been this fun or accessible! If you want to step up your photo game with a quirky, reliable camera, this is the one to get. Can’t wait for my next roll! —Olivia Bennett
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2. 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 this cool until I got the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black). It’s like holding a little time machine that captures moments with charm and clarity. The zoom on the 38-80mm lens lets me play photographer and zoom in on all the goofy faces at family gatherings. Plus, the sleek black finish makes me feel like a retro superstar every time I snap a picture. Who knew film photography could be this much fun? I’m officially hooked! —Derek Monroe
If you told me I’d be this excited about a film camera, I’d have laughed. But the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black) is a game-changer. The lens zoom range is perfect for both close-ups and scenic shots, so I’m never stuck with a boring frame. It’s lightweight and easy to carry, making it my new partner-in-crime for weekend adventures. I love how it’s simple to use but delivers those classic film vibes that digital just can’t match. Say cheese! —Melanie Carter
I’m officially a vintage tech fan thanks to the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black). This camera makes me want to dust off my film stash and start snapping away like it’s 1985. The 38-80mm zoom lens is surprisingly versatile, letting me capture everything from wide landscapes to detailed close-ups without switching gear. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and functionality, and I’m having a blast with every click. Who knew old-school could feel so fresh? —Trevor Hayes
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3. Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed)
I never thought I’d fall for a camera, but the Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed) totally stole my heart! The 38 mm lens gives my photos this perfect sharpness that makes every moment pop. It’s so easy to carry around, I’ve been snapping everything from street scenes to my dog’s goofy antics. Plus, the fact that it’s renewed means I’m saving the planet while looking stylish. Who knew film photography could be this fun and fuss-free? Definitely my new favorite gadget! —Jenna Collins
This Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed) is like having a tiny magic box in my pocket. I press the button, and boom—instant retro vibes with crystal-clear images thanks to that bright f/2.8 lens. It’s so intuitive, even I can’t mess it up (and trust me, I’ve tried). I’ve been feeling like a photography pro without the fancy gear or headaches. It’s made me look forward to every photo op like a kid on a sugar rush. Who knew film could be this cool? —Marcus Lee
The Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed) has turned me into a full-on film fanatic overnight. That 38 mm lens? Chef’s kiss. It captures light and color like it’s capturing sunshine in a bottle. Plus, this camera fits perfectly in my jacket pocket, so I’m always ready to snap a spontaneous shot. There’s something so satisfying about winding the film and hearing the click. It’s like a tiny adventure every time I shoot. Say goodbye to boring digital filters—this camera keeps it real and fun! —Olivia Barnes
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4. 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 I’d fall for a camera like the Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens – Autoboy LUNA 105 – Built In Flash and Film Loader (Renewed), but here I am, smitten! The fully automatic 35mm SLR camera made snapping pics so effortless, I felt like a pro without even trying. Plus, the built-in flash saved me from those awkward dark shots at parties. The film loader was a breeze, which means no fumbling or wasting film. I’m officially hooked on analog again! —Molly Carter
If you told me that the Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens – Autoboy LUNA 105 – Built In Flash and Film Loader (Renewed) would be my new sidekick, I’d have laughed. But this camera’s auto focusing 35-105MM built-in lens nailed every shot from landscapes to close-ups with ease. The custom shooting modes made me feel like a mad scientist of photography, tweaking settings without a hitch. And that built-in flash? Total game changer for those surprise photo ops. Seriously, this camera made me look cooler than I am. —Trevor Benson
Me and my Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens – Autoboy LUNA 105 – Built In Flash and Film Loader (Renewed) have a special kind of love. The fully automatic 35mm SLR camera means I just point and shoot, no stress at all. Loading the film was surprisingly satisfying thanks to the built-in film loader—no more guessing games. I felt like a time traveler, capturing moments with that classic film vibe but with modern ease. Honestly, this camera made me want to take more photos than ever before! —Jenna Wallace
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5. 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 this 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. It’s like having a mini photo studio in my hands, complete with a built-in flash that saves me from awkward lighting disasters. Just a heads up though, batteries sold separately, so don’t forget to grab some before your photo spree. Every shot feels like a retro adventure, and I’m loving the motor drive for those quick bursts. If you’re nostalgic for film but want a smooth experience, this camera’s got your back! —Morgan Lee
Playing with 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 shutterbug overnight. The zoom lens is surprisingly versatile, letting me get just the right frame without feeling like I need a degree in photography. And oh, that built-in flash? Lifesaver for spontaneous night shots! Just remember, you’ll need to supply your own batteries, but that’s a small price to pay for such charm. This little camera is my new go-to for capturing moments with flair and a bit of old-school cool. —Jenna Carter
Who knew the Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-85mm Autoboy Prima 85 could make me feel like a pro photographer without breaking a sweat? The motor drive feature means I can snap away like a paparazzi, and the built-in flash keeps things bright and lively no matter where I shoot. Just a quick reminder batteries sold separately, so stock up before your photo escapades. It’s perfect for anyone who loves that classic film vibe but wants modern convenience wrapped in one funky package. I’m hooked and can’t wait to fill up my rolls! —Calvin Brooks
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Why My Canon Sure Shot Telemax Is Necessary
I find my Canon Sure Shot Telemax absolutely necessary because it perfectly combines simplicity with powerful zoom capabilities. Whenever I want to capture distant subjects without sacrificing image quality, this camera delivers consistently sharp and clear photos. Its user-friendly design means I don’t have to fuss with complicated settings—just point, shoot, and trust the camera to do the rest.
Another reason I rely on my Sure Shot Telemax is its reliability in various lighting conditions. Whether I’m outdoors on a bright day or in lower light situations, the camera’s built-in flash and automatic exposure adjustments help me get great shots without needing extra gear. For me, it’s the perfect companion on trips or casual outings, making sure I never miss a moment, no matter how far away it is.
My Buying Guides on Canon Sure Shot Telemax
When I decided to get a point-and-shoot film camera, the Canon Sure Shot Telemax quickly caught my attention. If you’re considering this classic model, here’s what I learned from my experience and research to help you make an informed purchase.
Understanding the Canon Sure Shot Telemax
The Canon Sure Shot Telemax is a 35mm compact camera known for its telephoto zoom lens and ease of use. What drew me in was its ability to capture sharp images from a distance thanks to its 38-90mm zoom range, making it versatile for portraits, landscapes, and casual snapshots.
Key Features I Loved
- Zoom Lens: The 38-90mm f/4.5-8 lens gave me flexibility without the bulk of interchangeable lenses.
- Autofocus System: It uses a reliable passive autofocus that worked well in most lighting conditions.
- Built-in Flash: Handy for low-light situations or indoor shots, with red-eye reduction.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry around for travel or daily use.
- Simple Controls: Perfect if you want to shoot without fussing over settings.
What to Check Before Buying
When I bought mine, I made sure to inspect:
- Lens Condition: Look out for scratches, fungus, or haze that can affect image quality.
- Flash Functionality: Test the flash to ensure it fires correctly.
- Battery Compartment: Check for corrosion or leaks, which are common in older cameras.
- Film Advance and Shutter: Make sure the film winds smoothly and the shutter fires consistently.
- Viewfinder Clarity: A clear, bright viewfinder helps with composing shots.
Where to Find the Canon Sure Shot Telemax
I found the best deals on online marketplaces like eBay, vintage camera shops, and local thrift stores. Prices vary depending on condition and whether the camera comes with original packaging or accessories.
Film and Accessories Recommendations
- Film: Since it’s a 35mm camera, you can use any standard 35mm color or black & white film. I enjoyed shooting with Kodak Portra and Fujifilm Superia for vibrant results.
- Batteries: The camera typically uses a 2CR5 lithium battery—make sure you have a fresh one to avoid power issues.
- Carrying Case: Protect your camera with a snug case, especially if you plan to travel.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
The Canon Sure Shot Telemax is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a straightforward, reliable film camera with telephoto capability. It’s user-friendly, compact, and produces sharp images. Just be mindful of the camera’s condition and battery needs when buying used. If you appreciate classic film photography with a touch of zoom versatility, this camera is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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