Lois Larson
Travelling with film can be a stressful experience for photographers, especially when it comes to navigating airport security. While some sources claim that airport x-ray scanners cannot damage film under ISO 800, others argue that the new CT scanners can ruin film in a single pass. To avoid any risk of fogging or colours shifting on unprocessed film, photographers are advised to request a hand inspection at security checkpoints. However, regulations vary across countries, and some airports, such as London Heathrow, are known for refusing hand checks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can film go through X-ray at airports? | Yes, but it depends on the film's ISO speed and the type of X-ray machine. |
| Recommended ISO speed for carry-on luggage | 800 ISO or lower |
| Recommended ISO speed for checked luggage | Not recommended |
| Effect of X-rays on film | Potential fogging, colour shifting, loss of detail and colour accuracy, and over-exposure |
| Alternative to X-ray scanning | Request a hand-check or manual inspection |
| Effectiveness of lead-lined bags | Ineffective against CT scanners; may prompt further inspection |
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What You'll Learn
CT scanners can damage film
CT scanners are becoming increasingly common in airports, particularly in the US. These scanners are significantly more powerful than traditional X-ray machines. This added strength can mean serious damage to unprocessed film. The increased radiation dose emitted by CT scanners will have a damaging effect on film, and once damaged, there is no turning back. Traditional damage by radiation causes fogging on negatives, resulting in a loss of detail and colour accuracy. The effect of the new CT scanners is a substantial loss of detail in the shadows, mostly in images with a tight exposure and a significant amount of grain.
Even one pass through a CT scanner can damage a roll, which makes taking film through airport security a concern for photographers. Kodak, Fujifilm and ILFORD have issued warnings about new and enhanced scanning technology (CT scanners) at airports and other transit hubs causing serious damage to unprocessed photographic film. Fujifilm noted that these new scanners could lead to "fogging", distortion in shadow detail and general image degradation.
CT scanners can cause irreversible damage to film, resulting in fogged negatives, a loss of detail and colour accuracy, and distortion in shadow detail. While some sources claim that the average experience if you can't get a hand check is that your film will be okay, others claim that CT scanners will destroy your film. One source notes that out of 20 rolls of film, only one had visible damage, but another source notes that even if the images are still visible, there is still damage to the film.
To avoid damage to film, it is recommended to ask a TSA agent for a hand check when bringing film through TSA checkpoints. Most US agents are more than willing to accommodate the request, especially when prepared. Internationally, it can vary by country, but it is always worth asking. It is also recommended to remove film from all canisters and packaging ahead of time, place film in a clear ziplock bag or a "Do Not X-Ray" film pouch, and keep it easily accessible in a side pocket of your carry-on.
It is important to note that lead-lined film bags are not recommended, as they are ineffective against CT scanners and may result in more damage to your film. Additionally, if a TSA agent sees a lead bag in your carry-on, they will likely ask you to remove it for inspection. Instead, it is recommended to use a film pouch with a "Do Not X-Ray" label, as this will make your request easier for TSA agents to understand.
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Carry-on luggage vs checked luggage
When travelling with film, it is important to consider the type of luggage you will be carrying. Carry-on luggage is typically scanned using X-ray machines, while checked luggage often goes through more powerful CT scanners that can damage film.
Carry-on luggage is best suited for travellers who prefer to travel light and only pack the essentials. It offers several advantages, including saving on baggage fees, faster airport navigation, and shorter wait times at baggage claim. Carry-on luggage also reduces the risk of losing your luggage, as it stays with you throughout your journey. Additionally, carry-on bags come in various sizes, allowing travellers to choose the most suitable option for their needs. For example, a backpack or a tote bag can be convenient for short trips or as hand luggage on long-haul flights, carrying essentials like a change of clothes, toiletries, and medications.
However, carry-on luggage has size and weight restrictions, and the list of prohibited items is extensive. Liquids, certain tools, and sporting goods are typically not allowed in carry-on bags. Additionally, carry-on travellers may face challenges when moving around the airport, especially when using the restroom or navigating during flight connections.
Checked luggage, on the other hand, offers the advantage of being able to pack more items, including those that may not be allowed in carry-on luggage. This is ideal for longer trips, bulkier items, or when you plan to shop and bring souvenirs back home. Checked luggage also eliminates the hassle of carrying your bags around the airport, making it a more comfortable option during your travel.
However, checked luggage usually incurs additional fees, and there may be weight and size restrictions with associated extra charges for oversized or overweight bags. Checked bags also require more time for check-in and baggage claim upon arrival, potentially causing delays in your travel plans.
When deciding between carry-on and checked luggage, consider the nature and duration of your trip, the items you need to pack, and your personal preferences for convenience and cost.
To ensure the safety of your film, it is recommended to avoid packing it in checked baggage due to the high-powered CT scanners used. Carry-on luggage with X-ray scanners is generally safer for film under 800 ISO, but requesting a hand-check is still advisable to avoid potential damage.
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Requesting a hand-check
While it is possible to bring film through airport security, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your film doesn't get damaged.
Firstly, it is recommended to never pack film in checked baggage. Checked bags go through high-powered CT scanners that can cause immediate and irreversible damage to your film. Even the best processing lab can’t fix film that’s been fogged by these machines. Carry-on X-ray scanners, on the other hand, use lower levels of radiation and typically don't harm film under 800 ISO. However, it is still recommended to request a hand-check to be extra cautious, especially if your trip involves multiple flights or airport transfers.
To request a hand-check, simply let the TSA agent know that you're carrying photographic film and kindly ask for a manual inspection. It is advised to have your film easily accessible in a clear bag, such as a ziplock bag or a "Do Not X-Ray" film pouch, to facilitate the process. In most cases, TSA agents are accommodating of such requests, especially in the United States. However, it is important to note that the willingness to accommodate hand-check requests may vary internationally.
Additionally, it is recommended to remove the film from all canisters and packaging ahead of time. This simplifies the inspection process and ensures a smoother and faster experience at security checkpoints. While lead-lined film bags can block standard X-rays, they may not be effective against CT scanners, which are much stronger and can still damage your film. Moreover, TSA agents may ask you to remove items from these bags for inspection. Therefore, a hand-check is generally considered the safest and most effective way to protect your film.
Although hand-checks are recommended, some travellers have shared experiences where their requests for hand-checks were denied. In such cases, it is advised to remain calm and polite. While it is frustrating to have your request denied, especially when dealing with valuable film, it is important to understand that TSA agents are also following protocols and procedures.
In summary, when travelling with film, it is best to carry it in your hand luggage and request a hand-check at the security checkpoint. Have your film easily accessible in a clear bag and communicate your request politely to the TSA agent. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your film remains safe and undamaged throughout your travel journey.
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Using lead-lined bags
While lead-lined bags can be effective in blocking standard X-rays, they are not a foolproof method for protecting your film during airport security checks. Here are some important considerations when using lead-lined bags:
- Effectiveness against X-rays: Lead is known to be highly effective in blocking high-energy X-rays. Lead-lined bags, such as the Domke FilmGuard bag, are designed to utilise this property of lead to protect sensitive film from radiation exposure. These bags are constructed with lead impregnated into durable vinyl, providing a flexible and protective barrier.
- Limitations with CT Scanners: It is important to recognise that lead-lined bags may not offer sufficient protection against newer and more powerful CT scanners found in some airports. These scanners operate at a higher intensity, and their increased radiation dose can penetrate lead, causing potential damage to your film. Therefore, lead bags are not recommended as the sole means of protection when travelling through airports with CT scanners.
- Security Inspection Considerations: Using a lead-lined bag during airport security checks may prompt additional inspections by security personnel. The opaque nature of lead bags can arouse suspicion, leading to requests to remove the bag's contents for separate scanning or hand inspection. This defeats the purpose of using a lead bag for convenience and protection. In some cases, security personnel may even increase the X-ray power to penetrate the lead bag, negating its protective capabilities.
- Alternative Options: Instead of relying solely on lead-lined bags, it is advisable to explore alternative options for protecting your film. One recommended method is to request a hand-check or manual inspection by politely informing the TSA agent that you are carrying photographic film that cannot be exposed to X-rays. Most U.S. agents are accommodating of such requests, and some countries may require prior online authorisation for hand inspections. Another option is to use "Do Not X-Ray" stickers, which have been co-designed with Kodak, to clearly indicate to security personnel that your film should not be subjected to X-ray scanning.
- Practical Considerations: When using lead-lined bags, it is essential to separate them from other items during scanning. Keep the bag out on a tray, not inside your backpack, to facilitate easier inspection. Additionally, consider contacting the airport in advance to inquire about their policies regarding hand checks for film. Having this information beforehand can help you prepare accordingly.
- Mixed Experiences: Experiences with lead-lined bags vary among travellers. While some have reported successful outcomes with their film remaining undamaged, others have encountered situations where security personnel insisted on removing the contents from the lead bag for separate scanning or inspection. It is worth noting that European airports tend to be more thorough in their inspections, often opening the bag and then scanning its contents separately.
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International variations
For example, a traveller shared their experience of flying to Norway's capital, Oslo, and having their film hand-inspected without issue. However, another traveller's hand-checking request was denied at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, where their Domke bag containing film was flagged for inspection.
It is recommended that travellers research the airports they will be passing through to determine if they use CT scanners, which are known to damage film. Travellers should also be prepared for varying levels of accommodation from security personnel when requesting hand-checks.
When shipping internationally, carriers cannot guarantee how Customs or other institutions will handle packages containing film. To be extra cautious, it is recommended to label film with "light-sensitive materials" or "do not x-ray" warnings, along with contact information.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, film can go through X-ray at the airport, but it is recommended to keep film under 800 ISO and request a hand check to be safe.
A hand check is when you ask a TSA agent to manually inspect your film instead of putting it through the X-ray machine. This is the best way to protect your film, especially in the US.
ISO measures the sensitivity of the film to light. The higher the ISO, the more sensitive the film is, and the more likely it is to be damaged by X-rays.
You can purchase a film bag with lead-lined fabric that blocks X-rays, although some sources say this is ineffective against CT scanners and may result in increased X-ray power to see through the bag. Alternatively, you can use film mailers to ship your film instead of carrying it through airport security.
