Camera Film - Airport X-Ray Machines

[Dana49]

When we did a curbside check-in at MCO, the Red Cap asked if we packed our film in our luggage or in our carry-ons. I told him that it was in our luggage, and he replied that it may get damaged. Does anyone know what the difference is between the luggage x-rays and the carry-on x-rays? Is there a chance that the carry-on x-rays can still harm film? I must admit, it is confusing.

 

[Jeanny]

the xray machines for luggage are much stronger than the security xray. Don't put film in your checked luggage. You should always put it in your carry-on, and you can even ask the agent to handcheck the film, so it doesn't even go through the xrays at all.

 

[Dana49]

Thanks Jeanny!

 

[Dan Murphy]

http://www.kodak.com/global/en/service/tib/tib5201.shtml

http://www.tsa.gov/public/interapp/editorial/editorial_1035.xml



Two good sites, the maker and the checker

 

[Celluloidgal]

Ditto Jeanny.

My DH works for a TV show. He NEVER allows film/video to go through the x-ray machines. He always carries on & has them hand checked. Of course, in light of recent events, it raises the "suspicious" level on him. He is often held up while they examine his work equipment. (Note: I almost forgot the word "work"...that would of made an interesting tag )

So, yes, bring any film/video with you on the plane. But...expect to take a little longer...and a cavity search

 

[DisneyVillain]

He NEVER allows film/video to go through the x-ray machines.

In case anyone was wondering how an x-ray machine could damage a video, it's the magnetic field from the large electric motor turning the belt.

Film makers and processers say that one time through the carry-on x-ray wouldn't damage film that is ASA 400 or slower, but most pros won't take the chance.

 

[Nancy]

We have it posted at our photo lab. It seems that whatever it does to the film makes it hard for the machine that cuts the negatives. So...not only will your pictures possibly turn out bad...but it also might ruin the negatives so you have nothing. We recommend the 1 hour processing because we can moniter everything and the negatives are cut by hand...not machine.

The sign states that the checked bags x-ray is much stronger then the carry-on so always pack film in the carry on.

We even ask now before we do any developing....just to be on the safe side.

 

[Dana49]

Thanks everyone. Dan, the sites were excellent.