The Canon Prima Shot is a 35mm camera. It was built by Canon in the 1980s and was aimed at consumers. It was available in Japan under the name Autoboy Prisma and in America as Sure Shot ACE.
With the Canon Prima Shot, the photographer doesn’t have much to do, the shutter speed and aperture are set and the film is also transported on.
The Prima Shot comes with two viewfinders, one normal and one on the top of the camera that you look through from above, like a Lubitel. It was also the first camera with a receiver for a radio shutter release. It also has a self-timer.
Films for the Canon Prima Shot
What film format is the Canon Prima Shot designed for? The camera exposes 35mm format films. 35mm films are still produced by various manufacturers. Possible films for the Canon Prima Shot are the Kodak Portra 400* and the Kodak T-Max 100*.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 35 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Names in other markets | Japan: Canon Autoboy Prisma, USA: Canon Sure Shot ACE |
| Estimated value / Used price | 89,36 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 72 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 63,74 Euro (68.19 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 67,17 Euro (72.52 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 63,60 Euro (68.19 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Canon Prima Shot
Is this camera easy to use, even for a beginner?
Yes, the Canon Prima Shot is designed for simplicity. It automatically adjusts settings like aperture and shutter speed, so you mainly focus on pointing and shooting. Even film transport is automated.
What kind of film does the device take?
It uses standard 35mm film, which is still widely available from many manufacturers. Popular choices include Kodak Portra 400 and Kodak T-Max 100.
How many viewfinders does this point-and-shoot have?
The Prima Shot has two viewfinders: a standard one and a top-mounted viewfinder, similar to some twin-lens reflex cameras. This offers flexibility in how you compose your shots.
Does it have a self-timer?
Yes, the Canon Prima Shot includes a built-in self-timer, allowing you to take photos of yourself or group shots without needing a remote trigger.
When was this camera model made?
The Canon Prima Shot, also known as the Autoboy Prisma and Sure Shot ACE, was manufactured by Canon during the 1980s and targeted towards everyday consumers.