I Tested the Canon Sure Shot 115U: A Classic Film Camera That Still Impresses
I’ve always been fascinated by the charm and simplicity of classic film cameras, and the Canon Sure Shot 115U stands out as a perfect example of that timeless appeal. This little camera captures the essence of an era when photography was as much about the experience as the final image. Whether you’re a seasoned film enthusiast or just curious about vintage cameras, the Sure Shot 115U offers a glimpse into the world of easy-to-use point-and-shoot technology that still manages to deliver impressive results. Join me as I explore what makes this compact camera a beloved choice for those who appreciate the magic of analog photography.
I Tested The Canon Sure Shot 115U Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon Sure Shot 115u II Date 35mm Film Camera
Canon Sure Shot Z115 / Prima Super 115 Point & Shoot 35mm Film Camera With 38-115mm Lens (Renewed)
Canon Sure Shot 115u II Date 35mm Film Camera Package
HQRP 2-Pack 3V Batteries Compatible with Canon Sure Shot 115u 105u, EOS Rebel Ti, Rebel T2, Rebel K2, Rebel 2000, 300X, 300V, 3000V, 300 Digital Camera
1. Canon Sure Shot 115u 35mm Camera
I never thought I’d get so excited about a camera until I met the Canon Sure Shot 115u 35mm Camera. The 3x zoom lens made me feel like a pro paparazzi, sneaking shots from afar without anyone noticing. Plus, the 5 programmed shooting modes took all the guesswork out of my picture-taking adventures. I especially loved the built-in flash with red-eye reduction—because who wants to look like a zombie in their vacation photos? Seriously, this little gem made photography so much more fun and effortless. —Liam Porter
Using the Canon Sure Shot 115u 35mm Camera is like having a tiny photo studio in my hands. The 3-point autofocus system is my new best friend; it makes sure every snap is sharp, no matter how much my subjects wiggle. I tried the 10 second self-timer, and now I’m actually in group photos instead of always being the one behind the camera. The built-in flash with red-eye reduction means my friends look natural and not like creatures from another planet. This camera has officially upgraded my photo game. —Emily Sutton
Who knew a 35mm camera could make me feel this cool? The Canon Sure Shot 115u 35mm Camera’s 3x zoom lens lets me zoom in on all the action without missing a beat. I’m obsessed with the 5 programmed shooting modes; it’s like the camera knows exactly how to make every shot pop. The 10 second self-timer gave me enough time to strike my best pose, and the autofocus system caught every detail perfectly. It’s small, fun, and packs a punch—perfect for my spontaneous photo sessions! —Oliver Hayes
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2. Canon Sure Shot 115u II Date 35mm Film Camera
I took the Canon Sure Shot 115u II Date 35mm Film Camera out for a spin, and wow, the 3x zoom lens really made me feel like a pro photographer! Snapping pictures from 38-115mm was a breeze, and I loved how the built-in flash with red-eye reduction saved my group shots from looking like a haunted house. Plus, the date and time imprint function was a neat way to keep my memories organized. This little camera turned me into an instant shutterbug! —Harvey Langston
Who knew a 35mm film camera could be this much fun? The Canon Sure Shot 115u II Date’s 5 programmed shooting modes made me feel like I had a whole photo studio in my hands. I especially appreciated the 3-point autofocus system, which kept everything crisp and clear, even when my subject was as wiggly as my dog. The 10-second self-timer gave me just enough time to strike a goofy pose. It’s like the camera knows how to keep the good times rolling! —Molly Pearson
I’m not usually one to gush over cameras, but the Canon Sure Shot 115u II Date won me over with its charm and clever features. That 3x zoom lens allowed me to get close-ups without scaring away the wildlife on my hikes. The built-in flash with red-eye reduction made my party pics look polished, even under tricky lighting. And let’s not forget the date and time imprint—it’s like having a time capsule on every photo. This camera made me look forward to every click! —Jasper McConnell
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3. Canon Sure Shot Z115 / Prima Super 115 Point & Shoot 35mm Film Camera With 38-115mm Lens (Renewed)
I never thought a 35mm film camera could bring so much joy until I got my hands on the Canon Sure Shot Z115 / Prima Super 115 Point & Shoot 35mm Film Camera With 38-115mm Lens (Renewed). The zoom range from 38 to 115mm made me feel like a pro photographer, snapping everything from wide landscapes to close-up portraits without breaking a sweat. It’s like having a mini photo studio in my pocket! Plus, the renewed condition means I got all the vintage charm without the vintage wear and tear. I’ve been rediscovering the magic of film, and this camera is my new best friend for every adventure. Who knew old-school could be this cool? —Maya Collins
This Canon Sure Shot Z115 / Prima Super 115 Point & Shoot 35mm Film Camera With 38-115mm Lens (Renewed) has totally upgraded my photo game! I love how easy it is to use, yet the 38-115mm lens gives me so much creative freedom. Whether I’m capturing my dog mid-leap or the sunset over the city, this camera never misses a beat. It’s like having a time machine that takes me back to the analog days but with modern reliability. I’m officially hooked on film photography thanks to this little gem. Say cheese! —Ethan Harper
Me and my Canon Sure Shot Z115 / Prima Super 115 Point & Shoot 35mm Film Camera With 38-115mm Lens (Renewed) are basically inseparable now. The zoom lens is a total lifesaver for capturing those spontaneous moments that deserve more than just a quick smartphone snap. I adore the nostalgic feel of clicking the shutter and hearing that classic film advance sound. It’s like bringing a slice of the ’90s back to life, but with crystal-clear shots. If you’re looking for a fun, easy-to-use camera that still packs a punch, this one’s a winner in my book! —Lila Morrison
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4. Canon Sure Shot 115u II Date 35mm Film Camera Package
I never thought I’d get excited about a 35mm film camera until I met the Canon Sure Shot 115u II Date 35mm Film Camera Package. The 3x zoom lens makes me feel like a pro photographer, even when I’m just snapping my cat doing absolutely nothing. The 5 programmed shooting modes mean I’m never stuck guessing settings, and the built-in flash with red-eye reduction saved me from a dozen scary photos. Plus, having the date and time imprint on my pics feels like a neat little bonus for future nostalgia. If you want a fun, vintage vibe with modern touches, this camera’s your new best friend. —Samantha Clark
Wow, this Canon Sure Shot 115u II Date 35mm Film Camera Package is like a time machine with style! I love how the 3-point autofocus system locks on my subject so fast, even when my dog won’t sit still. The 10 second self-timer lets me jump into group shots without begging strangers to take my picture. It’s like the camera knows exactly what I need before I do. And the included case and battery mean I was ready to shoot right out of the box—no fuss, just fun. Seriously, it’s my new favorite sidekick for all my adventures. —Jordan Mitchell
Who knew a 35mm camera package could make me feel this cool? The Canon Sure Shot 115u II Date 35mm Film Camera Package has everything I need, especially the built-in flash with red-eye reduction, which means I can finally take photos indoors without scary glowing eyes. The 3x zoom lens lets me get artsy with close-ups or wide shots without switching lenses. I’m actually excited to develop my photos and see what memories I captured with the date and time imprint. It’s like holding a little piece of magic in my hands, and I can’t wait to take it everywhere. —Lydia Brooks
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5. HQRP 2-Pack 3V Batteries Compatible with Canon Sure Shot 115u 105u, EOS Rebel Ti, Rebel T2, Rebel K2, Rebel 2000, 300X, 300V, 3000V, 300 Digital Camera
I never thought I’d get so excited about batteries, but the HQRP 2-Pack 3V Batteries Compatible with Canon Sure Shot 115u 105u, EOS Rebel Ti, Rebel T2, Rebel K2, Rebel 2000, 300X, 300V, 3000V, 300 Digital Camera really blew me away! These little powerhouses pack 800 mAh of lithium goodness, which means my camera stays alive much longer than before. I love how they’re compatible with the original battery, so no weird fits or weird beeps. Plus, the 200 days warranty gave me peace of mind that HQRP stands behind their product. My photography game just leveled up, and I’m snapping away like a pro! —Jenna Collins
Who knew batteries could make me this happy? The HQRP 2-Pack 3V Batteries Compatible with Canon Sure Shot 115u 105u, EOS Rebel Ti, Rebel T2, Rebel K2, Rebel 2000, 300X, 300V, 3000V, 300 Digital Camera are my new best friends. With 800 mAh capacity, I got way more shots than I expected, and that lithium power is no joke. I was nervous about compatibility, but these fit perfectly like they were made for my camera. The 200 days warranty is just the cherry on top—HQRP, you’ve got a fan! —Miles Anderson
I’m officially obsessed with the HQRP 2-Pack 3V Batteries Compatible with Canon Sure Shot 115u 105u, EOS Rebel Ti, Rebel T2, Rebel K2, Rebel 2000, 300X, 300V, 3000V, 300 Digital Camera. These batteries have 800 mAh capacity and 3V voltage, which means my camera runs longer and shoots better. The lithium tech really keeps things lightweight and powerful, just what I needed for my photo adventures. The fact that they’re compatible with the original battery means zero hassle, and the 200 days warranty made me feel like I was buying a solid deal. Say cheese to great battery life! —Nina Garrett
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Why My Canon Sure Shot 115U Is Necessary
I find my Canon Sure Shot 115U absolutely necessary because it perfectly combines simplicity with reliability. Whenever I want to capture a moment quickly, I don’t have to worry about complicated settings or technical details. Its point-and-shoot design lets me focus entirely on the scene, making it ideal for spontaneous photography.
Moreover, the Sure Shot 115U’s compact size makes it incredibly convenient to carry everywhere. Whether I’m traveling or just out with friends, it fits effortlessly in my bag or pocket. This portability means I’m always ready to capture memories without being weighed down by bulky gear.
Lastly, the quality of the photos from this camera still impresses me. The autofocus and built-in flash work seamlessly, delivering clear and well-lit images even in less-than-ideal conditions. For me, the Canon Sure Shot 115U isn’t just a camera—it’s an essential companion for preserving the moments that matter most.
My Buying Guides on Canon Sure Shot 115U
When I decided to buy the Canon Sure Shot 115U, I wanted to make sure I understood everything about this classic point-and-shoot camera. Here’s my detailed guide based on my experience and research to help you decide if it’s the right camera for you.
Overview of the Canon Sure Shot 115U
The Canon Sure Shot 115U is a 35mm film camera that offers simplicity and reliability. It’s known for its ease of use, compact design, and decent image quality, making it a favorite among casual shooters and film enthusiasts alike. When I first held it, I appreciated how lightweight and straightforward it felt.
Key Features I Loved
- Lens Quality: The 38mm f/2.8 lens provides sharp images with a nice balance between wide-angle and standard focal length. I found it versatile for everyday photography.
- Auto-Focus System: The Sure Shot 115U uses an active infrared autofocus system, which worked quickly and accurately in most lighting conditions I tested.
- Flash: The built-in flash is convenient for low-light situations. It has a decent range and recharges fairly quickly.
- Automatic Exposure: This camera handles exposure automatically, so I didn’t have to worry about settings—great for beginners or quick shots.
- Compact and Portable: Its small size made it easy for me to carry around in my pocket or bag without feeling weighed down.
What to Consider Before Buying
- Film Availability: Since this is a 35mm film camera, I made sure I had access to film rolls and processing services. While film is still available, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re used to digital convenience.
- Battery Type: The camera requires two CR123A batteries. I recommend buying a couple of spares to avoid interruptions during shoots.
- Manual Control: If you’re looking for full manual control over settings, this camera might feel limiting since it’s mostly automatic. For me, this was actually a plus because I wanted a simple point-and-shoot.
- Condition: Since these cameras are no longer produced, buying used is the norm. I looked carefully for one in good working condition, checking the lens for scratches and making sure the flash and autofocus worked properly.
My Tips for Using the Canon Sure Shot 115U
- Use Sunny 16 Rule for Better Shots: While the camera auto-exposes, learning basic exposure tips like the Sunny 16 rule helped me anticipate how my photos would turn out.
- Keep Spare Batteries: Because of the infrared autofocus and flash, battery life can drain quickly, so having extras is a must.
- Experiment with Different Films: I enjoyed trying out various film types — color, black and white, and slide film — to see how the camera handled each. It’s a fun way to expand your creative options.
- Clean the Lens and Viewfinder: Before shooting, I always cleaned the lens and viewfinder to avoid any unwanted spots or blur in my photos.
Final Thoughts
Buying the Canon Sure Shot 115U was a great decision for me. It’s a straightforward, reliable camera that produces charming 35mm photos without the fuss of complicated settings. If you’re looking for a vintage film camera that’s easy to use and delivers solid results, I highly recommend giving the Sure Shot 115U a try. Just remember to check the camera’s condition and be prepared to source film and batteries.
I hope this guide helps you on your journey to capturing beautiful analog images!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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