Picture Perfect (Sure Shot 105 Zoom)

Member Name: nicola21

Product:	Sure Shot 105 Zoom
Date:	12/04/01 (163 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Many - see text

Disadvantages: None

This is the first fully automatic zoom camera that I have owned. Before, I made do with freebies from petrol coupons, but the years had finally got the better of my last manual Fuji camera, so I requested a "nice" new camera for a Christmas gift. I wasn't expecting anything special, but the gift I received from friends was a really pleasant suprise. As this is my first proper camera, I have little else with which to compare, but I certainly enjoy using it.

My 105 Zoom came in a gift box along with two spare films, a fairly large book containing some 100 pages about "Taking Better Pictures", an extensively detailed manual for the camera written in six different European languages, the camera itself, and a smart leather carrying case and strap.

Canon are renowned for excellence in their products and general high quality. Over the last ten years, I have owned three different models of Canon printer, all of which have given a long life and performed without any problems.

The 105 Zoom is an average size (4.8 x 2.5 x 1.8in), weighs 8.6oz, has a silver grey fascia and looks very attractive. It is powered by a single 3 volt 123 lithium battery and even regular use of the camera does not lower the battery's power much at all.

Loading of the battery and film is quick and easy and the digital display window keeps constant track of battery power and the number of exposures used. Even when the camera is switched off the display still shows, a bit like a clock display that is shown permanently.

The controlling mode dial which initially turns the camera on and off also gives various modes with which to photograph.


*Self-timer mode:
delays shutter release for 10 seconds for including the photographer in pictures. The function is simple to use


*RealTime Release mode:
for use in situations of rapid movement. Instantly photographs within 0.03 seconds, essential for capt
uring expressions or fast-moving objects


*Auto Flash & Red Eye Reduction:
excellent for photos in darker surroundings and eliminates red-eye completely


*Normal Auto Flash:
for use in darker surroundings, especially for photographs without people


*Flash ON mode:
allows flash at any time and softens the outline of the subject


*Flash OFF mode:
gives no flash at all, good for use where flash photography is prohibited or for night views


Use of an ISO 400 film is recommended for optimum output with the zoom. The zoom function allows photos to be taken at 38mm wide-angle range from 2ft to 40.6ft, or at 105mm telephoto range from 2ft to 15.8ft, although the general shooting distance is from 2ft to infinity. Film loading, winding and rewinding is fast and automatic and the approximate flash recycling time is 6 seconds.

In general the camera is very pleasant to use. There is a wide enough range of useful functions and it is light enough to carry comfortably around the neck. Any question you may have is answered in the user-friendly manual and all instructions are clear and comprehensive.

And lastly, the photographs themselves? Well, they are excellent. From reproducing the vast scenery of the Snowdonian mountain range, to capturing my parrot, Monica, in action, this little camera has produced some fantastic results and is the perfect way to keep memories alive.

Summary: