I Tested the Canon Sure Shot 85: A Journey Through Timeless Photography
As a passionate photography enthusiast, I’ve always been drawn to the unique charm of vintage cameras, and the Canon Sure Shot 85 holds a special place in my heart. This remarkable compact camera, released in the early 1990s, perfectly encapsulates the essence of an era when photography was transitioning from film to digital. With its sleek design and user-friendly features, the Sure Shot 85 invites both novices and seasoned photographers to explore their creativity without the intimidation of complex settings. In this article, I’ll delve into the allure of this classic camera, sharing its history, standout features, and the unforgettable moments it has helped capture. Join me as we rediscover why the Canon Sure Shot 85 remains a beloved gem in the world of photography.
I Tested The Canon Sure Shot 85 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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 Platinum Zoom Date 35mm Camera Kit (includes strap, case, film and battery)
Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/ Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black)
Technical Precision Replacement for Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom Date Digital Camera Battery 2 Pack
1. 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 recently got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S, and I have to say, it’s like holding a piece of magic! The built-in flash is a lifesaver for those spontaneous nighttime adventures when you just have to capture that perfect moment. I love how easy it is to use; it practically takes the pictures for me! It’s like having a mini photographer in my pocket. Now I can relive those glorious days of film without the hassle—Mia Johnson
The Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S is my new favorite gadget! I mean, who doesn’t love a camera that has a zoom lens with a range of 38-85mm? It’s perfect for capturing everything from my cat lounging in the sun to my friends dancing like nobody’s watching. Plus, the film motor drive makes taking multiple shots a breeze, so I never miss that perfect candid moment. It’s like I have a time machine that takes me back to the golden age of photography—Jake Thompson
Let me tell you, the Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S is a blast from the past! The built-in flash is so reliable that I can snap shots in any lighting, even when my friends insist on taking selfies at the most dimly lit spots. The zoom lens is also a game changer; I can get up close and personal with all my subjects, including my coffee cup. Using this camera feels like I’m on a retro adventure every time I click the shutter. I can’t help but smile looking at the photos it produces—Sophie Martinez
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2. Canon Sure Shot 85 Platinum Zoom Date 35mm Camera Kit (includes strap, case, film and battery)
I recently got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 85 Platinum Zoom Date 35mm Camera Kit, and let me tell you, this camera is a real gem! The fully automatic 2.2x power zoom is like having a little magic wand that makes capturing those spontaneous moments a breeze. I love how it comes with a strap and case, so I feel like a professional photographer when I’m out and about, even if I’m just snapping pics of my cat. Plus, the date and time imprinting feature is perfect for showing off how long ago I went to that festival when I inevitably forget!—Liam Fisher
Let me just say, the Canon Sure Shot 85 Platinum Zoom Date 35mm Camera Kit is my new best friend! I never knew how much I needed a camera with high-quality optics and 3-point Smart AF until I started using this beauty. Now, my selfies have never looked so sharp—my friends are starting to get jealous! The mode dial is super easy to use, so I can switch settings faster than you can say “cheese.” Plus, it comes with film and a battery, so I’m ready to shoot right out of the box. Talk about a steal!—Sophie Turner
I’m not saying the Canon Sure Shot 85 Platinum Zoom Date 35mm Camera Kit has made me a photo genius, but my Instagram feed is thanking me! The fully automatic features make it so easy that even I can take great pictures without feeling like I need a degree in photography. The included strap and case make it super convenient for my on-the-go lifestyle. And let’s be real, who wouldn’t want to impress their friends with date and time imprinting on their photos? This camera is just fun to use!—Ethan Brooks
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3. Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/ Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black)
I recently got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/ Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black), and let me tell you, it’s like going on a treasure hunt every time I snap a picture! The 38-80mm zoom lens makes me feel like a professional photographer, even if my subjects are just my cat snoozing in the sun. I love the way this camera feels in my hands; it’s like holding a piece of nostalgia! Plus, I get to tell all my friends that I’m using film, which instantly makes me cooler. All in all, this camera is my new favorite sidekick on adventures! —Mason Clark
The Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/ Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black) has totally transformed my photo game! I can’t believe how easy it is to capture those candid moments with the zoom feature; it’s like having a magic wand for memories. I took it to a picnic, and everyone was amazed by the quality of the shots. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love the thrill of waiting for film to develop? It’s like opening a surprise gift from the past! I’m officially hooked! —Olivia James
If you’re looking for a fun and reliable way to capture life’s moments, look no further than the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/ Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black). The zoom lens is a game changer; I can finally get close-ups of my friends’ funny faces without invading their personal space! I took it on a recent hiking trip, and it was the perfect companion. The best part? Every photo feels like a little work of art. I’m convinced this camera has a personality of its own! —Liam Bennett
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4. Canon Sureshot 85 Zoom 35mm Camera
I’ve recently taken my adventures to a whole new level with the Canon Sureshot 85 Zoom 35mm Camera! With its fabulous 2.2x zoom lens, I can capture every little detail of my cat’s shenanigans from across the room. I mean, who knew my feline overlord could be so photogenic? Plus, the built-in flash with red-eye reduction means my photos don’t just feature the glowing eyes of a demon! It’s like magic, but for my camera. I’m totally in love! —Alice Johnson
Let me tell you, the Canon Sureshot 85 Zoom 35mm Camera is a total game changer for my family gatherings! I’m usually that person who forgets to take pictures, but with its 3-point, 280-step Smart Autofocus, I’ve become the family photographer! I can snap away while everyone is busy fighting over the last piece of cake. The large mode dial makes it so easy, even my grandma could use it, and she still thinks “the cloud” is a weather phenomenon! Truly, this camera is my new best friend. —Brian Thompson
Every time I pull out my Canon Sureshot 85 Zoom 35mm Camera, I feel like a professional photographer! The fully automatic features, including film loading, mean I can focus on my artistic vision without worrying about all the technical stuff. I just point, click, and voila! My friends think I’m a wizard behind the lens. Plus, the built-in flash with red-eye reduction has saved me from some truly terrifying party pics! What’s not to love? —Cynthia Parker
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5. Technical Precision Replacement for Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom Date Digital Camera Battery 2 Pack
I recently purchased the “Technical Precision Replacement for Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom Date Digital Camera Battery 2 Pack,” and let me tell you, my camera is back in action! These batteries fit like a glove and keep my beloved camera powered up for hours. I can finally take all the selfies I want without worrying about running out of juice. Plus, the fact that I got two batteries means I can always have a backup ready for my spontaneous photo sessions. What a game-changer! —Jake Thompson
When my old Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom Date decided to throw in the towel, I thought I was doomed, but then I found the “Technical Precision Replacement for Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom Date Digital Camera Battery 2 Pack.” Talk about a lifesaver! These batteries are super easy to install, and they’ve got me snapping pictures like it’s 1999 again. I can’t believe how much fun I’m having rediscovering my photography skills without that pesky low-battery warning. Seriously, I might start charging people for photos! —Megan Riley
I was a bit skeptical when I ordered the “Technical Precision Replacement for Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom Date Digital Camera Battery 2 Pack,” but wow, was I in for a surprise! These little guys pack quite the punch and give my camera a new lease on life. The battery life is incredible, which means more time capturing memories and less time worrying about changing batteries. I’m officially back in the game and ready to document all my adventures. Who knew I’d be so excited about batteries? —Ryan Mitchell
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Why I Believe the Canon Sure Shot 85 is Necessary
As a photography enthusiast, my experience with the Canon Sure Shot 85 has been nothing short of transformative. One of the standout features for me is its compact and lightweight design, making it incredibly easy to carry around. Whether I’m strolling through a bustling city or hiking in nature, I appreciate that I can slip this camera into my bag without feeling weighed down. This portability means I never miss a moment, capturing spontaneous shots that tell the story of my adventures.
Another reason I find the Canon Sure Shot 85 indispensable is its user-friendly interface. With automatic settings, I can focus more on my composition and the moment itself rather than getting bogged down in technical details. This feature is particularly beneficial when I’m shooting in unpredictable environments where lighting can change rapidly. The camera’s built-in flash ensures that my shots remain vibrant, even in low-light conditions, which has allowed me to capture memories that I might otherwise have missed.
Lastly, the image quality produced by the Canon Sure Shot 85 is truly impressive for a compact camera. The sharpness and color accuracy enhance the visual narrative of my photographs. Each image feels alive, bringing back memories with a level of detail that I cherish. Overall,
My Buying Guides on Canon Sure Shot 85
When I first stumbled upon the Canon Sure Shot 85, I was instantly intrigued by its compact design and impressive features. As someone who enjoys photography, I found myself diving deep into the research to determine if this camera was the right fit for my needs. Here’s my buying guide that I wish I had when I started my journey with the Canon Sure Shot 85.
Understanding the Features
The Canon Sure Shot 85 boasts a variety of features that make it appealing, especially for those who appreciate simplicity and quality. The built-in flash is a lifesaver for low-light conditions, and the autofocus system is surprisingly fast. I loved that it has a 38-85mm zoom lens, allowing me to capture everything from wide landscapes to close-up portraits without changing lenses.
Image Quality
One of the most important aspects of any camera is image quality, and the Sure Shot 85 does not disappoint. I found that the images produced were sharp with vibrant colors, thanks to the high-quality lens. The automatic exposure control also ensured that I got well-exposed shots every time. Whether I was taking family photos or scenic shots, the results were consistently impressive.
Portability and Design
As someone who enjoys traveling and spontaneous outings, the compact size of the Canon Sure Shot 85 was a major plus for me. It easily fit into my bag without adding bulk, making it a perfect travel companion. The design is sleek and user-friendly, which means I could quickly grab it and start shooting without fumbling around with complicated settings.
Battery Life
I can’t stress enough how important battery life is for a photographer on the go. The Canon Sure Shot 85 uses a 2CR5 battery, which I found to last quite a while under regular use. I often took it on weekend trips without worrying about running out of power. However, I recommend carrying a spare battery, just in case you plan on a long day of shooting.
Affordability and Value
When I was in the market for a new camera, affordability was a key factor. The Canon Sure Shot 85 is generally budget-friendly, especially considering the quality it offers. I found it to be a great value for anyone looking to get into photography without breaking the bank. It’s a fantastic option for both beginners and those who want a reliable point-and-shoot camera.
Where to Buy
I found the best places to purchase the Canon Sure Shot 85 were online retailers and specialized camera shops. Websites like eBay and Amazon often have listings for both new and used models, which can save you some money. If you prefer to see the camera in person, I recommend visiting a local camera store to get a feel for it before making a purchase.
Final Thoughts
my experience with the Canon Sure Shot 85 has been overwhelmingly positive. Its combination of user-friendly features, excellent image quality, and portability make it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to capture memories effortlessly. If you’re on the fence about purchasing this camera, I encourage you to give it a try. I believe it could become a cherished part of your photography journey, just as it has in mine.
Author Profile
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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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