Will camera film be ruined after it goes through an Airport Scanner?

[trumad]

And with the new security are they opening cameras?

Thanks

[bif]

1. No. The level for the x-rays is too low

But if you're concerned, any decent camera shop will sell you a lead bag to put your film in. Make sure it's in your carry-on and tell them you want it hand inspected. That way it won't go through the x-ray machine.

[TreasonousBastard]

2. Could be.

That's been argued for years, and I just play it safe.

I always carry the film seperately in a little bag and have them hand inspect it. I also make sure there's no film in the cameras in case they decide to open them.

[Florida_Geek]

3. The level in the checked in bagage is high

On some carry on machines they can up the power if they "see" something.

The lead lined bags were good in the past but not now.

Best bet is a clear see through plastic baggie with all the film out of their plastic cans and request a hand check of it.

[Zomby Woof]

4. Above 800 speed supposedly

I have seen signs saying 800 and above, but my 800 speed film survived 2 xray scanners last year, in Seattle and Phoenix.

Yours will likely be okay.

[ElsewheresDaughter]

5. yes it will be...use lead lined bags to protect your film and camera

http://www.ecophotoexplorers.com/filmtravel.asp


With today’s heightened airport security, the days of be able to stroll through the terminal to a comfy seat on the plane is over and it doesn't matter whether your a top world photographer or one just planning a family vacation. Security personnel check everyone who wants to fly these days, and the x-rays they use your carry-ons, and your checked luggage can damage your film.

There doesn’t seem to be a single simple solution to traveling with film; all the schemes have their drawbacks. The film manufacturers seem to be as confused as the rest of us.


Here’s what Fuji recommends:

Carry the film stock as hand luggage. Most, if not all of the newer hand x-ray machines use weak x-ray radiation and it should not affect the film. But if you check your film as luggage, the x-ray machine is stronger and would cause some fogging of the product. Your best option would be to mail the film with a "DO NOT X-RAY" sticker rather than take it through the airport. If you have to take it through the airport, avoid the x-ray by showing the cans to security and explaining.

Note that first Fuji says carrying your film through the weak x-rays will not hurt your film, but then suggests you avoid x-rays and ask security for a hand check.


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Here's what Agfa has to say:

Damage to films caused by ANTI-TERROR luggage checks at airports - New types of X-ray scanner which can detect hidden explosives more effectively than traditional systems are increasingly being used at international airports. Basically there are two systems:

In the first system ( CT 5000/5500), the suitcases are given an initial check with a normal dose of X-rays. A computer program supports the analysis and signals any suspicion that weapons or explosives may be present. There is then a second viewing, this time with a thinner but much stronger beam. This covers all the suspicious elements in the suitcase.
The second system (L3) works with broader irradiation and no initial check.
With both systems there is the danger that films can be damaged by the radiation. The undeveloped film may be foggy and the image of objects (e.g. keys) which lie in the path of the X-rays can appear.
This new equipment has not yet been installed at all airports in the world, but their number is steadily increasing.

Recommendation - Films which have been developed can be placed in suitcases without risk. However, passengers passing through airports which use the new equipment should be certain to take undeveloped films in their hand luggage. Hand luggage is only subjected to relatively mild radiation during checks, which does not place films at risk. You can of course also request that your luggage be checked visually and by hand.

Since Kodak has more information and sample images of damaged film, users are asked to visit Kodak's website for more detailed information and read their Technical Information Bulletins on Baggage X-ray Scanning Effects on Film

[trotsky]

6. Best not to take chances

My cousin returned from a visit to Ireland several weeks ago. She was bumped from her regular flight, and the new flight was so full she had to check ALL her baggage, including the carry-on that contained her rolls of 35mm film.

When she got that film developed, it was all ruined.

Now whether it was a camera malfunction (she had used the camera to take pictures before, just fine), or an error at the developers, that's possible.

But still, don't take the chance. Maybe call your airport's security department and ask what they recommend.