Stringent new security checks on flights to and from the US make it necessary to alert you to some dangers regarding photographic films and security procedures. Most are carried out using EDS (Explosive Detection System) using x-rays, which can cause fogging or white lines to appear on the film once it's developed.
It's never been a good idea to put your photographic film in your checked luggage. Today it is almost certain that your film will be ruined if you don't heed this warning.
The correct procedure is to place your undeveloped film in your carry-on bag. Films with speeds of under ASA 800 may be fine in your bag, as long as you don't take them through too many X-ray stations.
You should always ask for a hand inspection of the following film types:
- ASA/ISO 800 and higher speed photographic films.
- X-Ray or scientific Films
- Film of any speed with is likely to be subject to X-ray radiation more than 5 times (the effects of x-ray screening is cumulative and more than 5 exposures will fog the film)
- Film which is or will be underexposed.
- Film that will be push processed.
- Sheet film, large format film, medical and scientific film, notion picture film, and professional grade film.
You may request a hand-inspection of any undeveloped film. This doesn't mean that your request will be honored in all countries. Use of clear film canisters will expedite the process.
Consider getting your film processed before you return home. The machines in use today do not affect digital camera images or film that has already been processed. Get more information on Film Safety from the manufacturer of automated explosives detection systems (EDS), InVision.
