1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Canon Sure Shot Owl 35mm camera. This fully automatic point-and-shoot camera is designed for ease of use, featuring a large viewfinder and simple controls. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your camera to ensure optimal performance.

This image displays the Canon Sure Shot Owl 35mm camera. The camera features a 35mm lens, a built-in flash, and a mode dial for various functions including auto and red-eye reduction. The packaging highlights its 'Extra-Big Viewfinder'.
Key Features:
- Fully automatic AF 35mm camera.
- 35mm f/4.5 optical glass lens with three-step autofocus.
- Oversized viewfinder for easier framing, especially for glasses wearers.
- Mode dial for simplified setting of camera functions, including various flash modes.
- Built-in flash with red-eye reduction.
- Automatic film load, advance, and speed setting.
- Compact and lightweight design.
2. Setup
2.1 Unpacking
Carefully remove all items from the packaging. Ensure you have the following:
- Canon Sure Shot Owl 35mm Camera
- Strap
- Instruction Manual (this document)
Batteries and 35mm film are sold separately.
2.2 Battery Installation
The Canon Sure Shot Owl requires two AA batteries (not included).
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the side or bottom of the camera.
- Slide or lift the cover to open the compartment.
- Insert two AA batteries, ensuring the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals align with the indicators inside the compartment.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely until it clicks into place.
2.3 Loading Film
The camera uses standard 35mm film cartridges.
- Open the camera back cover by sliding the latch located on the side of the camera.
- Place a 35mm film cartridge into the film chamber on the left side, ensuring the film leader points towards the take-up spool on the right.
- Pull the film leader across to the film take-up spool, aligning it with the red mark or insertion slot.
- Close the camera back cover firmly until it latches. The camera will automatically advance the film to the first frame. The frame counter will display '1'.
3. Operating the Camera
3.1 Power On/Off
To turn the camera on, slide the power switch to the 'ON' position. To turn it off, slide the switch to 'OFF'. The camera will automatically retract the lens when powered off.
3.2 Taking Photographs
- Hold the Camera: Hold the camera steady with both hands. Ensure your fingers do not obstruct the lens, flash, or viewfinder.
- Frame Your Shot: Look through the large viewfinder to compose your image. The oversized viewfinder makes it easier to see your subject.
- Focus: Gently press the shutter button halfway down. The camera's three-step autofocus system will automatically focus on your subject. A focus indicator light (usually green) in the viewfinder will confirm focus.
- Shoot: Once focus is confirmed, press the shutter button fully down to take the picture. The camera will automatically advance the film to the next frame.
3.3 Flash Modes
The mode dial on the camera allows you to select different flash settings:
- AUTO (Green 'AUTO' symbol): The camera automatically determines if flash is needed based on ambient light conditions.
- Flash ON (Lightning bolt symbol): The flash fires with every shot, regardless of lighting. Useful for fill-in flash in bright conditions or for backlighting.
- Red-Eye Reduction (Lightning bolt with eye symbol): The flash fires a pre-flash before the main flash to reduce the red-eye effect in portraits.
- Flash OFF (Lightning bolt with a line through it): The flash will not fire. Use this when flash photography is prohibited or when you prefer natural light.
3.4 Self-Timer
To use the self-timer, rotate the mode dial to the self-timer symbol (clock symbol). Press the shutter button, and the camera will take a picture after a delay of approximately 10 seconds, allowing you to be in the shot.
3.5 Mid-Roll Rewind
The Canon Sure Shot Owl allows for mid-roll film rewind. To rewind the film before the roll is complete, locate the mid-roll rewind button (often a small recessed button on the bottom or side) and press it with a pointed object (e.g., a pen tip). The camera will rewind the film back into the cartridge.
4. Maintenance
4.1 Cleaning the Camera
- Lens: Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a lens brush to gently remove dust and smudges. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
- Viewfinder: Wipe the viewfinder eyepiece with a soft cloth.
- Camera Body: Use a dry, soft cloth to wipe down the camera body. For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with water, then wipe dry.
4.2 Battery Care
- Remove batteries if the camera will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
- Replace all batteries at the same time with new ones. Do not mix old and new batteries.
4.3 Storage
Store the camera in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperatures. Use a camera bag or case to protect it from dust and impacts.
5. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Camera does not power on. | Dead or incorrectly inserted batteries. | Check battery orientation. Replace with fresh AA batteries. |
| Shutter does not release. | Film not loaded correctly; camera not focused; low battery. | Ensure film is loaded and advanced. Press shutter button halfway to confirm focus. Replace batteries. |
| Flash does not fire. | Flash OFF mode selected; flash charging; low battery. | Check mode dial setting. Wait for flash to charge. Replace batteries. |
| Film does not advance. | Film not loaded correctly; end of roll; camera malfunction. | Re-load film. Check frame counter. If problem persists, contact service. |
| Photos are blurry. | Camera shake; subject too close/far; lens dirty. | Hold camera steady. Ensure subject is within 2.6 feet to infinity. Clean lens. |
6. Specifications
- Film Format: 35mm
- Lens: 35mm f/4.5 optical glass lens
- Focusing System: Three-step autofocus, from 2.6 feet to infinity
- Viewfinder: Oversized, approximately 3 times wider than standard
- Flash: Built-in, with Auto, Flash ON, Red-Eye Reduction, and Flash OFF modes
- Film Transport: Automatic loading, advance, and rewind (mid-roll rewind possible)
- Power Source: 2 x AA batteries (not included)
- Dimensions (approx.): 4.9 x 2.9 x 1.8 inches (12.4 x 7.4 x 4.6 cm)
- Weight (approx.): 9 ounces (255 grams) with batteries
7. Warranty and Support
7.1 Warranty Information
The Canon Sure Shot Owl camera is covered by a one-year limited warranty on parts and labor from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
7.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, service, or warranty inquiries, please contact Canon customer support. Visit the official Canon website for the most up-to-date contact information and support resources.





