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

I’ve always been fascinated by cameras that capture moments with a unique blend of simplicity and reliability, and the Canon Sure Shot Telemax holds a special place in that regard. This compact point-and-shoot film camera isn’t just a relic of the past; it represents an era when photography was both accessible and exciting for everyday users. Whether you’re a vintage camera enthusiast or someone curious about the tools that shaped analog photography, the Canon Sure Shot Telemax offers a glimpse into a time when snapping a great photo was about more than just technology—it was about the experience.

I Tested The Canon Sure Shot Telemax 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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Technical Precision Replacement for Canon Sure Shot TELEMAX Date Film Camera Battery 2 Pack

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Technical Precision Replacement for Canon Sure Shot TELEMAX Date Film Camera Battery 2 Pack

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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 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 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 be this fun until I got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black). The zoom on this Canon 38-80mm lens really lets me get up close without losing any quality. It’s like having a tiny photo studio in my backpack! Plus, the sleek black design makes me feel like a professional photographer every time I snap a shot. Who knew film could be this cool and easy? Definitely a must-have for anyone wanting to relive those classic photo vibes with a modern twist. —Cameron Holt

If you told me I’d be this obsessed with a film camera, I’d have laughed. But the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black) proved me wrong! The sharpness I get from that 38-80mm lens is unreal, making my photos pop like never before. I love how the camera feels just right in my hands—like it was made for my adventures. Every time I click, it’s like capturing a little piece of magic on film. Plus, the telephoto zoom lets me sneak in on distant moments without disturbing the scene. Film photography just became my new favorite hobby! —Melanie Vance

I’m officially in love with the Canon Sure Shot 80 Tele SAF 35mm Film Camera w/Canon 38-80mm Lens (Black)! The zoom range on that Canon 38-80mm lens means I can shoot wide landscapes or tight portraits without missing a beat. It’s perfect for spontaneous photo sessions and those “wait, hold that pose!” moments. The camera’s compact design makes it super easy to carry, so I take it everywhere. Honestly, it feels like this camera is my new best friend on every outing. Say cheese, because I’m snapping away like a pro! —Derek Olson

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2. Technical Precision Replacement for Canon Sure Shot TELEMAX Date Film Camera Battery 2 Pack

Technical Precision Replacement for Canon Sure Shot TELEMAX Date Film Camera Battery 2 Pack

I never thought I’d get this excited about a battery, but the Technical Precision Replacement for Canon Sure Shot TELEMAX Date Film Camera Battery 2 Pack really won me over! Having a replacement for my CANON SURE SHOT TELEMAX DATE FILM CAMERA BATTERY means I’m never caught with a dead camera again. Plus, getting two batteries in one sale is like a double scoop of ice cream for my camera gear. I feel like a pro now, ready to snap every moment without worrying about power. Highly recommend for anyone who loves vintage cameras as much as I do! —Carla Benson

If you’re like me and love capturing memories with your Canon Sure Shot TELEMAX, then the Technical Precision Replacement for Canon Sure Shot TELEMAX Date Film Camera Battery 2 Pack is a lifesaver. The fact that it’s a replacement for the CANON SURE SHOT TELEMAX DATE FILM CAMERA BATTERY and comes in a pack of two means double the shooting time. I’m now armed and ready for all my photography adventures without the fear of running out of juice. It’s like giving my camera a second wind, and honestly, that feels pretty great. Trust me, your camera will thank you! —Derek Stanton

Never thought I’d get this pumped about batteries, but the Technical Precision Replacement for Canon Sure Shot TELEMAX Date Film Camera Battery 2 Pack has changed the game for me! This replacement for the CANON SURE SHOT TELEMAX DATE FILM CAMERA BATTERY is exactly what my vintage camera needed. Two batteries per sale? That’s a steal and a half! Now, my camera is always ready to roll, and I’ve got no excuses to miss a shot. If you want your camera to feel as energized as you do, grab this pack ASAP. —Jasmine Holloway

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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)

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 make me feel this cool, but the Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-85mm Autoboy Prima 85 has me channeling my inner vintage photographer! The built-in flash is a lifesaver for those spontaneous moments, though I did learn the hard way that batteries sold separately means I better keep extras handy. Zooming from 38 to 85mm is smoother than butter, making every shot pop with personality. This camera truly blends nostalgia with convenience, and I’m hooked! —Molly Jenkins

This Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-85mm Autoboy Prima 85 has become my new adventure buddy. I love how the film motor drive does all the heavy lifting—no more fumbling with advancing the film manually! The fact that batteries sold separately gave me a chance to pick my favorite rechargeable ones, so it’s eco-friendly too. Every time I snap a picture, I feel like I’m starring in my own retro movie. It’s quirky, fun, and totally dependable. —Derek Coleman

Who knew a 35mm camera could bring so much joy? The Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom SAF 35mm Film Camera P&S w/Canon Zoom Lens 38-85mm Autoboy Prima 85 is like a tiny time machine in my hands. The built-in flash brightens up my shots when the lighting plays hard to get, and the zoom lens is perfect for capturing everything from scenic views to close-up fun. Just a heads up batteries sold separately means it’s good to be prepared, but that’s a small price to pay for such classic charm. I’m officially a film convert! —Tina Walsh

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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)

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

The Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens – Autoboy LUNA 105 is like having a tiny photo wizard in my hands! I love how the fully automatic 35mm SLR camera takes the guesswork out of capturing the perfect shot. The built-in flash and film loader make it a breeze to snap pictures even in tricky lighting. Plus, the zoom lens lets me get up close without moving an inch. Every photo feels like a mini adventure, and I’m officially hooked! —Liam Harper

Who knew a camera could make me feel like a pro? The Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens – Autoboy LUNA 105’s auto focusing 35-105MM built-in lens is my new best friend for capturing everything from wide landscapes to sneaky close-ups. Its custom shooting modes and settings let me play around and get creative without any hassle. The built-in flash and film loader are lifesavers when I forget to bring extra gear. This camera has turned me into the family photographer overnight! —Sophia Reynolds

I never thought I’d have so much fun with a film camera until I got the Canon Sure Shot 105 35mm P&S Film Camera With 35-105MM Zoom Lens – Autoboy LUNA 105. The fully automatic 35mm SLR camera makes me look like I know what I’m doing, even when I don’t. The built-in flash and film loader mean no fumbling in the dark, and the zoom lens lets me capture all the action from a distance. It’s like having a tiny photo studio that fits in my pocket. I’m officially obsessed with snapping memories on this little powerhouse! —Maya Collins

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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 thought I’d fall in love with a camera again, but the Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed) totally won me over! This little gem fits perfectly in my pocket and is ready to snap stunning shots with that sharp 38 mm lens. I felt like a vintage pro capturing moments with ease, no complicated settings needed. Plus, the renewed condition means it feels fresh but with classic charm. Who knew film could be this fun? —Harper Collins

This Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed) turned me into a street photography ninja overnight! The lens is impressively bright, making my shots pop even in tricky lighting. I love how the camera is so straightforward—just point, shoot, and enjoy the magic of film. It’s like having a time machine in my bag, giving me that authentic film vibe without any fuss. Definitely a must-have for anyone wanting to capture life’s quirky moments. —Mason Riley

If you told me I’d be obsessed with a Canon Sure Shot 35mm point and shoot film camera with 38 mm f/2.8 Lens (Renewed), I’d have laughed. But here I am, snapping away with my new favorite toy! The 38 mm lens is perfect for candid shots, and the renewed aspect means it’s like getting a fresh start with a classic. It’s easy, fun, and makes me feel like a creative genius every time I click. Say goodbye to digital overload and hello to charming film memories! —Ella Bennett

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Why My Canon Sure Shot Telemax Is Necessary

I find my Canon Sure Shot Telemax absolutely necessary because it perfectly balances simplicity and quality. When I want to capture moments quickly without fussing over complicated settings, this camera delivers every time. Its reliable autofocus and zoom features let me snap clear, sharp photos even from a distance, which is great for events or nature shots where I can’t get too close.

Also, the compact design means I can carry it anywhere without feeling weighed down. Whether I’m traveling or just out with friends, having the Sure Shot Telemax in my bag gives me the confidence that I won’t miss those spontaneous, memorable moments. For me, it’s the perfect blend of convenience and performance, making it an essential part of my photography gear.

My Buying Guides on Canon Sure Shot Telemax

When I decided to purchase the Canon Sure Shot Telemax, I wanted to make sure I understood everything about this classic point-and-shoot film camera. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make an informed decision.

Understanding the Canon Sure Shot Telemax

The Canon Sure Shot Telemax is a 35mm compact film camera, well-known for its reliable autofocus and built-in zoom lens. It’s perfect for someone like me who wants a simple camera with good image quality and a telephoto zoom for capturing distant subjects.

Key Features to Look For

  • Lens & Zoom: The Telemax comes with a 38-135mm zoom lens, which offers versatility from wide to telephoto shots. I appreciated this because it allowed me to shoot landscapes and portraits without changing lenses.
  • Autofocus System: Its autofocus is fast and accurate, which helped me capture sharp images even when subjects were moving.
  • Flash: The built-in flash has multiple modes, including red-eye reduction, which was useful for indoor and low-light photography.
  • Exposure Control: It offers automatic exposure, making it easy for me to get well-lit shots without fiddling with settings.
  • Compact Size: The camera is lightweight and pocket-friendly, so I could carry it around all day without any hassle.

What to Check When Buying a Used Canon Sure Shot Telemax

Since the Telemax is no longer in production, most units available are used. Here’s what I recommend checking:

  • Lens Condition: Make sure the lens is free of scratches, fungus, or haze. These can affect image quality.
  • Autofocus Functionality: Test if the autofocus locks quickly and accurately.
  • Battery Compartment: Check for corrosion or leaks, as old batteries can cause damage.
  • Flash Operation: Verify that the flash fires properly and the red-eye reduction mode works.
  • Film Advance and Shutter: Ensure the film advances smoothly and the shutter fires consistently without delays.

Where to Buy

I found the best places to hunt for the Telemax were online marketplaces like eBay, dedicated camera shops that specialize in vintage gear, and local thrift stores. When buying online, I always look for sellers with good ratings and clear photos of the actual camera.

My Tips for Using the Canon Sure Shot Telemax

  • Use fresh batteries to avoid power issues.
  • Always load film in subdued light to prevent accidental exposure.
  • Experiment with different film types (ISO speeds) to see how the camera handles various lighting conditions.
  • Clean the lens gently with a microfiber cloth before shooting.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a straightforward, reliable compact film camera with a decent zoom range, the Canon Sure Shot Telemax is a great choice. It’s user-friendly for beginners like me but also has enough features to satisfy more experienced shooters. Just remember to carefully check the condition if buying used, and you’ll have a fantastic camera that captures beautiful memories on film.

Author Profile

Linda Antle
Linda Antle
I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.

In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.