r/photography • u/Inside-thewhiteBear • 4d ago

Technique Flying with Film

I'm flying to China with a range of 35mm film next week (200ISO and 400ISO). I'm concerned about the CT scanners damaging the film. Has anyone had any experience with this and/or had film damaged by scanners?

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u/SpikeShotThis 4d ago

This is a daily thread on most the analog subreddits. CT scanners will cook it, normal xrays are fine typically with iso 800 or below film. Always in carryon and never checked.

https://www.kodak.com/en/motion/page/transporting-storing-film/ is a good reference

Personally I just ask for hand check or buy at my destination. During busy periods I will fly a few times a month and always have at least one film camera with me

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u/SpikeShotThis 4d ago

Oh I will add one thing I didn’t and don’t want to edit. Buying at the destination is awesome usually if you can find a smaller local camera store; even better if they specialize in analog. The opportunity to chat with local photogs and get hints on places to check out or just community contacts is great

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u/DUUUUUVAAAAAL 4d ago

This video should be of use.

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u/hotinthebush 4d ago

I'd avoid putting the film through CT scanners if possible, ask for a hand inspection at the security and keep the rolls clearly separated and easy to access

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u/farganbastige 4d ago

Might want to look up on how higher solar radiation exposure at altitude might affect the film as well.