Ella Walter
When storing Kodak Pan film, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is recommended to expose and process the film within six months of purchase, as films kept for longer periods may be affected, especially faster films. Secondly, film degradation is slowed by low temperatures and dry storage, so it is advisable to store film in a refrigerator or freezer, unopened and in its original canister, to prolong its lifespan. However, frozen film becomes brittle and prone to distortions, hence the importance of bringing it to room temperature before use. Additionally, humidity accelerates film degradation, so it is crucial to avoid exposing the film to humid environments. Finally, before storing any films, it is recommended to repair and clean them, mount negatives on waterproof cores, and store them in clean cans, with each roll in a separate can.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | For short-term storage, keep at room temperature. For long-term storage, keep at refrigerator or freezer temperatures. |
| Storage Container | Store film in its original, unopened packaging. |
| Storage Time | Store film for up to six months before processing for optimal results. |
| Humidity | Avoid humidity as it speeds up film degradation. |
| Light | Store film in dim light or darkness. |
| Film Type | Consider whether the film is colour or black-and-white, as this affects the storage requirements. |
| Film Use | Consider the film's potential future use and its value as a record when determining storage methods. |
| Film Inspection | Inspect films in extended storage at least once every two years. |
| Film Preparation | Before storing, repair and clean the film, and mount negatives on suitable waterproof cores. |
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What You'll Learn
Store in a cool, dry place
Keeping Kodak Pan film in a cool, dry place is essential for preserving its quality and extending its lifespan. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure optimal storage:
Firstly, it is important to note that film should be used soon after purchase for the best performance. However, if you intend to store the film for an extended period, a cool, dry environment is crucial. Avoid exposing the film to high temperatures as it accelerates degradation. Aim for a temperature of 13°C (50°F) or lower to keep the film fresh and significantly increase its lifespan.
Secondly, in addition to temperature control, focus on maintaining low humidity levels. Humidity is detrimental to film, and condensation can cause issues such as ferrotyping or static buildup. Keep the film in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent moisture accumulation. Ensure the storage area is not subject to rapid temperature changes, as this can also induce condensation.
Thirdly, consider the storage container and its placement. Store the film in its original packaging and canister to protect against humidity. Keep the film in a sealed, light-tight container, such as a clean can or a dedicated film storage box. Avoid taping or sealing the cans, as this may affect the film's condition. Additionally, store the film in a dark location, as light exposure can impact its performance.
Lastly, for long-term storage, refrigeration or freezing is recommended. For refrigeration, ensure the film is unopened and stored at 0°C (32°F) or lower. Allow sufficient time for the film to return to room temperature before use, and always confirm that it is not cold to the touch before inserting it into your camera. For storage beyond six months, freezing is advised, with temperatures of -18°C (0°F) or lower. Frozen film becomes brittle, so allow enough time for it to thaw gradually to avoid distortion.
By following these guidelines and maintaining a cool, dry storage environment, you can effectively preserve your Kodak Pan film and ensure its longevity.
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Keep film in original packaging
Keeping film in its original packaging is important for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to protect the film from humidity, which can cause condensation to form on the film and lead to issues such as ferrotyping or static buildup. Film doesn't like heat or humidity, especially over long periods, and the original packaging acts as a protective barrier. Additionally, the original packaging ensures that the film is stored in a light-controlled environment, as exposure to light can affect the quality of the film.
The original packaging is also designed to keep the film secure and protected from physical damage. This is especially important if the film is being transported or handled frequently. The packaging is typically made of sturdy materials that can withstand some wear and tear, ensuring that the film inside remains intact. It also provides a layer of protection against dust and other particles that could come into contact with the film and affect its performance.
Another advantage of keeping the film in its original packaging is that it allows for easy identification and organisation. The packaging usually includes important information such as the film type, brand, and expiration date, making it easier to keep track of different films and their respective characteristics. This is particularly useful if you have a large collection of films or need to quickly select the right film for a specific project.
Furthermore, the original packaging can help maintain the longevity of the film. By keeping the film in its original packaging, you can avoid exposing it to ambient gamma radiation, which can cause the film to become grainier and foggier over time. This is especially relevant for colour films, which are more susceptible to colour shifts when stored at room temperature.
Lastly, the original packaging can provide peace of mind and ensure consistency. By using the packaging provided by the manufacturer, you can be confident that the film has been stored according to their recommendations and that you are following best practices for maintaining film quality. This consistency in storage conditions can help achieve optimal results when using the film.
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Avoid humidity
Humidity is one of the biggest factors that can affect the lifespan of film. Humidity can cause film degradation, so it is important to keep your film in a cool, dry, uncontaminated storage place.
If you live in a humid climate, you should keep your film near a dehumidifier. A humidifying unit may be needed if the relative humidity is consistently under 15%. Suitable units are available from manufacturers around the world. Be sure that the controlling humidistat is set no higher than about 50% to prevent overhumidification. In climates where the relative humidity regularly approaches 60%, use a dehumidifier or other means of reducing the humidity in the storage area.
If you are storing film for the long term, low temperatures and low humidity can help to preserve it. Keep your film at refrigerator temperatures (13°C /50°F or lower) to keep it fresh and increase its lifespan. If you are storing film for over six months, you can use a freezer (-18°C / 0°F or lower). Storing film in the freezer puts it into hibernation and protects against humidity. However, frozen film is brittle and prone to distortions, so it is important to let it come back to room temperature before using it.
If you are storing film in a refrigerator or freezer, it is recommended to store film unopened in its original canister. If you must use film in an area where the relative humidity is below 15% or above 60%, allow it to be reconditioned to the storage area's relative humidity before resuming it to the can.
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Use within six months
Kodak recommends that film be exposed and processed as soon as possible after purchase, ideally within six months. This is because the film's performance can change over time, especially if exposed to radiation. The Exposure Index (EI) of the film also affects its performance; a film with an EI of 500 can exhibit about three times the change in performance as a film with an EI of 125.
If you are unable to use the film within six months, it is possible to store it for longer periods, but this requires refrigeration or freezing. Colour film should be refrigerated if stored for up to six months, while black-and-white (B&W) film can be stored at room temperature. If you need to store the film for longer than six months, place it in the freezer, making sure it is in its original packaging. Storing film in the freezer puts it into a kind of hibernation, slowing down any degradation.
It is important to note that frozen film becomes brittle and prone to distortions, so it must be allowed to come back up to room temperature before being used. Film should be stored unopened in its original canister to protect against humidity. If storing your film in the refrigerator, allow three to five hours for the freezer. Once at room temperature, open the film canister in dim light to confirm the film roll is not cold to the touch before inserting it into your camera.
Film doesn't like heat or humidity, especially for long periods. While some exposure to heat can't be avoided, it can be mitigated by keeping your film in the original canister and stored in a camera bag. Humidity is a common problem for film storage, especially in countries in South East Asia or other humid areas. Kodak has created a film stock called ProImage 100, which is designed to be stored outside of the fridge, even in humid environments.
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Inspect films regularly
Inspecting films regularly is crucial to ensure their longevity and preserve their quality. While films stored under controlled conditions for extended life expectancy may require less frequent inspections, it is still advisable to examine them at least once every two years. On the other hand, films kept under adverse or uncontrolled commercial storage conditions necessitate more frequent inspections.
During these inspections, it is essential to check for any signs of damage, degradation, or deterioration. This includes inspecting the film for any physical damage, such as scratches, tears, or warping. Additionally, look out for any signs of mould or fungus growth, which can occur in humid environments. If you notice any issues, separate the affected films from the rest to prevent further contamination.
Another critical aspect of film inspection is verifying the storage conditions. Ensure that the storage area maintains optimal temperature and humidity levels. Film should be stored in a cool, dry environment, as heat and humidity accelerate film degradation. Use a thermometer and hygrometer to monitor these conditions regularly.
Furthermore, inspect the film packaging for any damage or signs of deterioration. Film should be kept in its original packaging or canister to prevent light leaks and maintain stability. If you notice any issues with the packaging, consider transferring the film to a new, suitable container to ensure its protection.
Lastly, during inspections, it is good practice to review the film's relevance and potential future use. Consider whether the film still holds value as a record or has historical significance. This evaluation will help determine the appropriate storage method and period. For instance, films with ongoing relevance may require more accessible storage for frequent use, while those with purely historical value can be archived for extended periods.
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Frequently asked questions
The best temperature to store Kodak Pan Film depends on the type of film and the duration of storage. For colour film stored up to six months, refrigeration is recommended (13°C /50°F or lower). For black and white film, room temperature is sufficient. For longer storage durations, freezing is recommended (-18°C / 0°F or lower).
Humidity is detrimental to film storage as it speeds up film degradation. Therefore, it is important to store film in a cool, dry environment to avoid water condensing on the film.
Kodak Pan Film should be stored unopened in its original packaging and canister to protect against humidity.
Films stored under controlled conditions for extended life expectancy do not require frequent inspections. However, it is recommended to inspect films in extended storage at least once every two years.
Before storing, repair and clean the film. Mount negatives on waterproof cores and prints on cores or reels. Store the rolls inside clean cans, preferably one roll per can. Do not tape or seal the cans.
