Ruth Haines
Travelling with film can be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to navigating airport security. The consensus is that films with an ISO rating of 800 or lower are generally safe to go through X-ray scanners, even multiple times. However, films with a higher ISO rating are more sensitive to light and can be fogged or damaged by the radiation emitted by X-ray machines. To avoid any potential issues, photographers often recommend requesting a hand inspection for films of all ISO ratings. While this is usually accommodated, some countries may not allow it, and security staff may insist on putting film through an X-ray machine. CT scanners, which are becoming more common in airports, are particularly powerful and can damage even low ISO film. To ensure film safety, photographers suggest keeping films in carry-on luggage and using clear plastic bags labelled Do Not X-Ray.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Film safety in airport scanners | Photographic film is light-sensitive and can react when exposed to X-rays, fogging the film and causing quality issues in images. |
| X-ray scanners | X-ray scanners are commonly used at airports and are generally safe for film under 800 ISO. Higher ISO films (800 and above) are at risk of damage. |
| CT scanners | CT scanners are newer and more powerful, and can fog all films regardless of ISO. |
| Hand inspection | It is recommended to request a hand inspection for films to avoid potential damage from scanners. However, some airports may not accommodate this request. |
| Alternative options | Some photographers choose to mail exposed film or carry it in a "Do Not X-Ray" pouch to avoid scanner damage. |
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What You'll Learn
X-ray machines and CT scanners can damage film
X-ray machines and CT scanners at airports can potentially damage film. While traditional X-ray scanners use a single beam of radiation to create a 2D image, CT scanners use multiple radiation beams to create a 3D image. This means that CT scanners emit a higher radiation dose, which can cause serious damage to unprocessed film.
The impact of X-ray machines and CT scanners on film can vary depending on factors such as the film speed, exposure, and number of passes through the scanner. Some sources suggest that films rated at 800 ISO or lower are generally not affected by standard X-ray machines, while films with higher ISO ratings may be more susceptible to damage. However, even films with speeds of 800 ISO or lower can be affected if they undergo multiple scans or if the scanner is a more powerful model.
CT scanners, in particular, have been known to cause significant damage to film. Their increased radiation dose can result in a substantial loss of detail and colour accuracy in the scanned images. This damage is often irreversible, and even the best processing labs may not be able to fully recover the affected film. Additionally, the negative effects of radiation can be more noticeable in the shadow areas of the images, appearing as if the image has been "overcooked" and sun-dried.
To minimise the risk of damage, it is recommended to keep film easily accessible in carry-on luggage and request a hand inspection by airport security staff. Placing film in a clear ziplock bag or a "Do Not X-Ray" pouch can also help communicate your request to the security personnel. While hand inspections may not always be granted, taking these precautions can help reduce the likelihood of damage to your film when travelling through airport security.
Overall, while X-ray machines and CT scanners can pose a risk to film, careful handling and communication with airport staff can help mitigate potential issues. By understanding the potential risks and taking appropriate precautions, photographers can feel more confident when travelling with film through airport security.
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Keep film in carry-on luggage
It is recommended that you keep your undeveloped film in your carry-on luggage when travelling through an airport. This is because the equipment used to screen checked luggage utilizes high-intensity screening technology, which will ruin any and all film.
To keep your film safe, you can request a hand inspection at the checkpoint. Most security staff are familiar with this request and will be accommodating. It is also recommended that you keep your film in a clear plastic bag and remove it from your carry-on bag at the security checkpoint. This makes it easier for the security staff to inspect your film.
It is important to note that different airports have different scanners. The older, more common X-ray scanners will only fog film 800 ISO and over. However, the newer CT scanners will fog all film, regardless of ISO. If you are travelling with film 800 ISO or lower, it is generally safe to pass through an X-ray scanner, even multiple times.
If you are travelling with film that is over 800 ISO, it is best to request a hand inspection. However, be aware that some countries may not honour this request. In these cases, it may be best to mail your exposed film to a developing lab or to yourself, to avoid potential damage from the scanners.
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Request a hand inspection
Requesting a hand inspection for your film at airport security is a simple process, but it's important to be prepared. Firstly, always keep your film with you and in your carry-on bag. Do not put it in your checked luggage, as it will be subject to much stronger X-ray scans that will damage your film.
When you reach the security checkpoint, inform the TSA agent that you are carrying undeveloped film and kindly request a manual inspection. It is recommended to do this politely, as the final decision rests with the TSA officer. In most cases, especially in the US, they will be more than happy to accommodate your request. However, it is worth noting that experiences may vary internationally, and some countries may be less accommodating.
To increase your chances of a successful hand inspection, it is advised to arrive at the airport early and scout the security lines. Look for the older, more experienced agents, as they are more likely to be familiar with film and grant your request. Additionally, remove your film from its packaging and place it in a clear, easily accessible bag, such as a ziplock bag or a "Do Not X-Ray" pouch. This will make it more convenient for the agents to inspect your film.
While most films with an ISO rating of 400 or lower are generally considered safe to pass through standard X-ray machines, it is always best to play it safe and request a hand inspection whenever possible. This is especially important if your trip involves multiple flights or airport transfers, as the cumulative effect of multiple scans could potentially damage your film.
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Film safety assurances
Film photographers who travel by plane often worry about the potential damage airport security scanners can inflict on their films. While security staff are trained professionals and scanner manufacturers provide "film safety" assurances, many photographers have shared their negative experiences and frustrating episodes with airport security.
To avoid such experiences, photographers can take several precautions when travelling with film. Firstly, it is recommended to always request a hand check for your film, which is usually granted in most airports. It is also advised to arrive at the airport earlier than necessary and approach the security agent at the checkpoint, politely requesting a hand inspection for your film. Some photographers suggest targeting the eldest agents, as they are more likely to be familiar with film.
Another important consideration is the type of scanner used at the airport. The newer CT scanners will fog all film, regardless of ISO, while the older, more common X-ray scanners will only fog film 800 ISO and over. Thus, it is crucial to be aware of the scanners used at your departure and arrival airports. Photographers can research the airports they will be travelling through and plan accordingly.
Additionally, photographers should consider the ISO rating of their films. Films under 800 ISO are generally considered safe to pass through X-ray scanners, even multiple times, although this is not ideal. Films with 800 ISO or higher are more likely to be affected by standard X-ray machines and should be hand-checked whenever possible.
To facilitate the hand inspection process, photographers can remove their film from all canisters and packaging ahead of time and place them in a clear ziplock bag or a "Do Not X-Ray" film pouch. It is also recommended to keep the film in a separate bag and easily accessible, such as in the side pocket of your carry-on luggage.
By following these precautions, photographers can minimise the risk of damage to their films when travelling through airport security. While it may not always be a smooth process, with proper planning and communication, photographers can better ensure the safety of their films.
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Shipping film
Choosing a Carrier:
Firstly, it is essential to select a reputable carrier with experience in handling and transporting film. Well-known carriers such as FedEx, UPS, DHL, and Airborne are commonly used for shipping film. These companies are familiar with the sensitive nature of film shipments and will work with shippers to meet their specific needs.
Packaging and Labelling:
Proper packaging and labelling are crucial to ensure the safe transport of film. All film reels should be securely packaged in good-quality, undamaged reels, with no exposed edges that could be damaged during shipping. Bubble wrap or other non-acidic packing materials should be used to protect the film, and ends of reels should be secured with acid-free tape. Clear and accurate labelling is also essential, including the film title and relevant information. It is recommended to include a tracking number, address, phone number, and email directly on the package to facilitate easy identification and tracking.
X-Ray Scanning Considerations:
One of the biggest concerns when shipping film by air is the potential damage caused by X-ray scanning. To minimize this risk, shippers should communicate their concerns and request alternative inspection methods. Kodak recommends labelling shipments with "DO NOT X-RAY" instructions and providing contact information in case X-ray scanning is mandatory. Shippers should also consider using carriers that avoid X-ray scanning, such as express air package shipping services like FedEx, UPS, or DHL for domestic routes within the US. However, it is important to verify this information with the carrier, especially when shipping internationally.
Insurance and Tracking:
Insuring the shipment is crucial to providing financial protection in case of loss or damage. FedEx Express, commonly used for motion picture film shipping in the US, offers insurance options. Additionally, signing up for email tracking notifications and using services like Apple Airtag can provide real-time updates on the shipment's location, helping to ensure its safe delivery.
International Shipping:
When shipping film internationally, it is essential to allow extra time, typically around 2-4 weeks, for customs clearance and international shipping procedures. Regulations and inspections vary by country, so it is advisable to research and understand the specific requirements and restrictions of the destination country.
By following these guidelines and working closely with reputable carriers, you can ensure that your film shipment arrives safely and securely at its intended destination.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the type of film and the type of scanner being used. Most standard X-ray machines should not damage film under 800 ISO. However, CT scanners, which are becoming more common in US airports, will fog all film, regardless of ISO.
You can ask for your film to be hand-inspected. It is recommended that you keep your film in a separate bag and approach the security agent at the checkpoint to request this.
It is recommended that you keep your film with you in your carry-on bag, rather than putting it in checked baggage. You should also be aware that regulations and inspections vary by country, so hand inspections may not always be possible.
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