Will X-ray machines at airports ruin my film?

The likelihood of your film being affected by an airport’s x-ray machine depends on two factors: the film’s ISO and the x-ray machine being used.

Firstly, be sure to never put your film in checked-in baggage because they are inspected with high-intensity screening technology that will ruin your film regardless of its ISO.

Travel with your film in your carry-on bags. The traditional x-ray machines used at most airports have a low level of radiation and are unlikely to affect instant film, film stocks ISO 800 and lower, or processed film. The risk of damage will always be present though, especially for film above ISO 800 because they are much more sensitive. Airports can set their machines at different strengths and so this also increases the chances of having them ruined.

The newer computed tomography or CT scanners, however, are a different story. Unlike the traditional ones, CT scanners utilize multiple radiation beams that make them more powerful and capable of ruining any and all film by causing fog, distortion, and overall image degradation. These advanced machines are becoming more common in airports around the world.

We recommend having your film checked manually whenever possible. Politely ask security to inspect them by hand. To lessen the hassle of the process on their end, prepare beforehand by having your film rolls in a transparent ziplock bag that is easily accessible. Another way to minimize risk is to have your film developed before getting on the plane if possible.

Photo by fong2k

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