How to Put Film in a Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom Camera
Don’t know how to put film in a Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom Camera?
If you’ve just picked up this compact classic, you’re in for a treat.
The Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom is one of the easiest film cameras to use… but if you’re new to film photography, loading your first roll can feel a little intimidating.
Don’t worry.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to put film in a Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom camera the right way, so you can start shooting with confidence.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- One roll of 35mm film (any brand… Kodak, Fujifilm, Ilford, etc.)
- Your Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom camera
- A fresh CR123A battery (the camera won’t load film without power)
🔋 Tip: If your camera doesn’t turn on or the lens doesn’t extend, replace the CR123A battery first. You can find them easily on Amazon, Walgreens, or B&H Photo.
Step 1: Open the Film Door
Locate the film door latch on the right-hand side of the camera (next to the wrist strap).
Slide it down gently… the back of the camera will pop open.
Always do this in low light or shade to prevent exposing any film already inside.
Step 2: Insert the Film Roll
Take your 35mm film canister and place it on the left side of the film compartment.
Make sure the flat end of the roll (the side without the spool) is facing down, and the film leader (the small tapered end) is pointing to the left.
Step 3: Pull the Film Leader Across
Pull the film leader across to the mark printed inside the camera.
You don’t need to line it up perfectly… the Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom has automatic film loading, which means it will detect and wind the film for you.
Step 4: Close the Film Door
Gently close the film door until it clicks shut. The camera will automatically:
- Pull the film onto the take-up spool
- Advance to the first frame
- Display “1” on the LCD screen
If the screen still shows “0” or flashes an error, open the door and try reseating the film.
💡 Pro tip: You’ll hear the motor whirring as it winds the film… that’s how you know it’s working properly.
Step 5: Confirm the Film is Loaded
Once the LCD screen shows “1,” your film is ready.
Press the shutter halfway to test focus, and you’ll see the lens extend… a good sign everything’s functioning.
From here, just shoot as usual.
The camera will automatically advance the film after each shot.
Step 6: Rewinding the Film
When you reach the end of the roll, the Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom will rewind the film automatically.
You’ll hear the motor spin for a few seconds, and the frame counter will show “0.”
Once that happens, open the film door and remove your roll… it’s ready for developing!
How to Put Film in a Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom Camera (Troubleshooting Tips)
If your film doesn’t load correctly:
- Make sure the battery isn’t dead.
- Check that the film leader reached mark inside the camera before closing the back.
- Avoid forcing the film or rewinding manually… the camera handles it automatically.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to put film in a Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom takes just a few tries to master.
The process is mostly automatic, which is one reason this model remains so popular among film beginners.
Once you’ve got your film loaded, all that’s left is to focus, compose, and enjoy the satisfying click of shooting real film.
If you’re looking for compatible film options or need a replacement Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom battery, check out trusted retailers like B&H Photo or Amazon.
Get more specs for the Canon Sure Shot 85 Zoom over at the Canon Camera Museum.
