Jazmin Li
Cameras and camera equipment are generally allowed in hand luggage, but there are some important considerations when it comes to airport security. Most notably, X-ray and CT scanners can damage undeveloped film, so photographers should consider requesting a hand-check for their film cameras. In the US, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) approves cameras in both carry-on and checked bags, but batteries and other accessories have specific rules. Similar regulations are in place in other countries, but it's always worth checking local rules before travelling. Security personnel may also flag cameras for additional screening, so it's a good idea to keep your camera easily accessible.
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What You'll Learn
TSA rules for camera gear
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows passengers to transport cameras and camera gear in their carry-on luggage or checked luggage. However, the specific rules and requirements for travelling with camera equipment can vary depending on the airport, the country, and the type of camera and gear you are carrying. Here are some general guidelines and considerations for travelling with camera gear under TSA rules:
Carry-on vs Checked Luggage
TSA regulations permit travellers to carry cameras and certain camera gear, such as DSLR cameras and camera monopods, in either their carry-on luggage or checked luggage. However, it is generally recommended to transport cameras in carry-on luggage to reduce the risk of damage. Cameras are fragile, and checked luggage is more likely to be thrown around and damaged in transit. Additionally, if you are travelling with camera film, it is recommended to keep it in your carry-on bag, as checked baggage goes through higher-energy X-ray scanners that can damage film.
Packing Considerations
When packing your camera gear, it is advisable to use a dedicated camera bag that is well-padded and designed to protect your equipment. Ensure your camera gear is easily accessible within your bag, as TSA agents may ask you to remove it for inspection. Organise your gear in a single layer within your bag to improve visibility during screening and reduce the likelihood of a manual search. Detaching lenses from cameras and packing them separately can also help prevent damage due to stress on the equipment.
Battery Restrictions
TSA has restrictions on lithium batteries. You are allowed to carry up to two lithium batteries with a capacity between 101 and 150 WH, as well as additional batteries under 100 WH. However, battery regulations can vary by country and airport, so always check the rules for your specific destination. Pack batteries separately and securely to prevent short circuits and fire hazards. Some airports may require you to remove the battery from your camera, while others may ask you to keep it in to demonstrate that the camera is functional.
Screening and Inspection
The TSA screening process may vary, and you may be asked to remove your camera gear from your bag during security checks. This could be due to the size or density of your equipment or the inability of the scanner to identify the items clearly. In some cases, TSA agents may swab your camera for drug residue. If you disagree with a TSA agent's request or decision, you can ask to speak to a supervisor or file a complaint.
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X-ray screening
TSA officers may instruct travellers to separate certain items from carry-on bags, such as food, powders, and other materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine. It is recommended to keep your bag organised to ease the screening process. Additionally, personal electronic devices like laptops, tablets, and handheld game consoles are screened separately.
The X-ray screening process may raise concerns for photographers carrying film. While most checkpoint statements claim that film rated at 800 ISO or lower is unlikely to be affected by standard X-ray machines, it is still recommended to request a hand-check to be safe. This involves politely informing the TSA agent that you are carrying photographic film and requesting a manual inspection. Most agents are accommodating of such requests, especially if the film is easily accessible and stored in a clear ziplock bag or a "Do Not X-Ray" pouch.
It is important to note that the X-ray screening process for carry-on items is generally considered film-safe, and the risk of damage is primarily associated with CT scanners and high-energy X-ray systems used for checked baggage. These systems can harm film, so it is recommended to always carry film with you on the plane and request a hand-check if necessary.
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Lenses and accessories
The Blackmagic Studio Camera works with a wide range of professional broadcast camera accessories and lenses. It comes with a 12V power supply and a tripod mount, but you can also add teleprompters, external batteries, rails, matte boxes, and more. The active Micro Four Thirds or EF lens mounts support a wide range of high-quality photographic lenses. The EF lens mount works with lenses from Canon, Sigma, Zeiss, and others. The Micro Four Thirds mount supports compact lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, and Sigma.
The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera models also offer a range of accessories and lenses. They feature an EF lens mount that is compatible with lenses from Sigma, Zeiss, Canon, and others. The Micro Four Thirds lens mount supports compact lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, and Sigma. You can also add different lens adapters, external microphones, rails, cages, gimbals, and third-party batteries. The USB-C expansion port allows for high-speed and high-capacity SSD or hard disk recording.
The Blackmagic Studio Camera Pro models have a 4-pin XLR broadcast power connector for external 12V–18V power supplies, and the standard models have a 12V DC locking power connector. The Pro models also feature a 5-pin XLR connection for professional headsets from brands such as Sennheiser, Clear-Com, and Beyerdynamic. All models have a 3.5mm headset connector for simple headphones.
The Blackmagic Focus and Zoom demands allow you to adjust the focus and zoom of compatible lenses without touching the camera itself. They attach to the tripod handles and work with active MFT or EF lenses. The zoom demand has customizable buttons for fine-tuning the zoom speed, engaging talkback, and setting ND filters.
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$68.71 $99.95
Lithium batteries
It is important to note that lithium batteries can pose safety risks. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has recorded numerous incidents involving lithium batteries, including smoke, fire, and explosions. These incidents can occur due to damage, overheating, or short-circuiting. To mitigate these risks, passengers should ensure their devices are in good condition and protected from damage during travel.
Additionally, passengers should be aware that the final decision on whether an item is allowed through the security checkpoint rests with the TSA officer. Officers may ask to power up electronic devices, and any powerless devices will not be permitted onboard.
If you are travelling with a Blackmagic camera that contains lithium batteries, it is important to follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth security screening process at the airport. Keep the camera and batteries in your carry-on baggage, protect them from damage, and ensure they are not short-circuited or damaged to prevent any safety hazards.
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Camera cases
When travelling with a camera, it is important to have a case that is protective, portable, and has ample storage. Think Tank Photo's Airport Security V3.0 is a highly recommended rolling camera bag that checks all these boxes. Its tough, high-quality design and protective padding ensure that your gear is safe during travel. The bag features a retractable handle, custom-designed high-performance wheels, and handles and grab straps on all four sides for easy retrieval from overhead bins. The bag's one-piece construction improves strength and reduces weight, and its extra-tall wheel housings protect your bag from scrapes and scratches. The roomy interior can be customised to fit a wide array of camera bodies, lenses, hard drives, batteries, and other accessories. You can pack up to two DSLRs or mirrorless model cameras, 4–6 additional lenses, a 10-inch tablet, a 15-inch laptop, and a tripod and water bottle if needed.
If you're looking for a backpack-style camera bag, the Think Tank Photo Airport Accelerator Backpack offers impressive storage capacity and high-quality features like a theft lock, durable padding, a rain cover, and sturdy hardware. However, it might be too large for photographers who don't carry a lot of gear, and the rain cover only protects three out of four sides of the bag. Another option for a backpack is the Shimoda Adventure Backpack, which is great for outdoor use.
For those looking for a rolling case, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L is a good option, offering the best overall design. If you're looking for a camera case with excellent organisation, the Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack is a great choice, although it is expensive at $420.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can take a camera with you through airport security. However, if your camera contains undeveloped film, you should put it in your carry-on bag and ask for a hand inspection to avoid potential damage from X-ray machines.
Simply inform the TSA agent that you are carrying a camera with undeveloped film and kindly request a manual inspection. Most TSA agents are accommodating, especially at US airports.
Most X-ray machines used for carry-on baggage are considered safe for film up to ISO 800. However, it is recommended to request a hand inspection to avoid any potential damage, especially if your trip involves multiple flights or transfers.
Yes, you may consider purchasing film locally upon reaching your destination or mailing film directly to your lodgings. Alternatively, you can use film mailers to send exposed rolls for development before your return journey, bypassing the need for hand inspections or X-rays.
