Flying with Film: A Photographer's Guide to X-ray Checkpoints
Flying with film can be a nerve-wracking experience for photographers. Airport security's x-ray machines can potentially damage or fog your precious rolls, leaving you with unusable images. This guide will help you navigate airport security with film and minimize the risk of damage.
Understanding the Risks and How X-rays Affect Film:
* X-ray Machines: These machines use radiation to see through luggage. While they're generally considered safe for developed prints and negatives, they can affect unprocessed film, especially high-speed (ISO 800 and above) film.
* CT Scanners: These are a newer type of scanner used for carry-on luggage. They use a much higher dose of radiation than traditional x-ray machines and are significantly more likely to damage film, even low-speed film.
* How Damage Occurs: X-rays cause fogging, which results in a loss of contrast and color shifts. The higher the film speed (ISO), the more sensitive it is to x-rays. Multiple passes through x-ray machines can compound the damage.
Strategies for Protecting Your Film:
1. Hand Inspection is Your Best Bet:
* Politely Request a Hand Inspection: When you reach the TSA agent, politely and clearly request a hand inspection of your film. State that it is unexposed (or exposed but undeveloped) film and that you'd like to avoid x-raying.
* Be Prepared for Potential Pushback: Some TSA agents may be unfamiliar with film or reluctant to perform a hand inspection. Be patient, courteous, and persistent. Explaining the sensitivity of film can help.
* Know Your Rights: While TSA agents have discretion, they are generally instructed to accommodate requests for hand inspection of film.
* Escalate If Necessary (But Politely): If the agent refuses a hand inspection, politely ask to speak to a supervisor. Document the situation (time, location, agent's name/badge number, and outcome) if possible.
2. Properly Packing Your Film:
* Keep it Separate: Store your film in a clear, resealable plastic bag. This allows the TSA agent to easily see the contents.
* Don't Pack in Lead-Lined Bags (Generally): While these bags might seem like a good idea, they can actually cause problems. The x-ray machine will crank up its power to try and penetrate the bag, potentially damaging the film even more. Also, the agent will almost certainly want to hand inspect the bag, which defeats the purpose. *Exception: Some photographers swear by these bags, especially for very high-speed film (ISO 3200+) traveling internationally, but it is a risk/reward calculation*.
* Use Original Packaging: Keep film in its original boxes whenever possible. This clearly identifies it as film.
* Carry-On Only: Whenever possible, carry your film with you in your carry-on luggage. Checked baggage is subjected to much stronger x-rays that will almost certainly damage your film.
3. Communicate Clearly and Calmly:
* Be Professional and Respectful: Maintain a polite and respectful demeanor throughout the process. Getting angry or confrontational will not help your case.
* Explain the Importance of the Film: If you are a professional photographer or the film contains irreplaceable memories, explain this to the TSA agent.
* Use the Right Terminology: Refer to your film as "unprocessed," "unexposed," or "undeveloped."
4. International Travel Considerations:
* Varying Regulations: Security regulations and policies can vary significantly between countries.
* Allow Extra Time: Be sure to allow ample time for security checks, as the hand inspection process can take longer.
* Learn Key Phrases: Learn how to say "I would like a hand inspection of my film, please" in the local language.
* Research Airport Procedures: Before traveling, research the airport security procedures for your destination.
5. Film Speed and Risk Mitigation:
* Lower ISO is Safer: Low-speed film (ISO 400 and below) is generally less susceptible to damage from x-rays. If possible, use lower ISO film when traveling.
* Consider Developing Immediately: If you're particularly concerned about your film, consider developing it as soon as possible after your trip.
6. What to Do if Your Film is X-rayed:
* Document Everything: If your film is x-rayed against your wishes, document the incident. Note the date, time, location, and agent's name/badge number.
* Develop the Film: Have the film developed as soon as possible.
* Assess the Damage: Examine the negatives for fogging, color shifts, or loss of contrast.
* Consider Filing a Claim: If you believe your film was damaged by airport security, you can file a claim with the TSA.
Alternatives and Additional Tips:
* Send Film via Mail: Consider mailing your film to your destination or back home to avoid airport security altogether.
* Buy Film at Your Destination: Purchase film at your destination to avoid transporting it through airport security.
* Digital Backups: If possible, consider taking digital backups of important images.
* Develop On-Site: If you are on assignment, consider developing your film on-site to ensure it is not damaged in transit.
* Practice Makes Perfect: Before a major trip, practice requesting a hand inspection at your local airport to get comfortable with the process.
In Summary:
Flying with film requires careful planning and a proactive approach. By understanding the risks, communicating effectively with TSA agents, and following these tips, you can minimize the risk of damage and ensure your precious memories are preserved. Good luck and happy shooting!