Jordan |
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Airport X-Rays: Problems for Film or Digital?
Will the x-rays at the airport damage processed film and prints?
March 14, 2004
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Jon Close |
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After developement, no.
March 14, 2004
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Jessy Hallam |
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How about undeveloped film? Or digital cameras?
March 14, 2004
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Jon Close |
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X-rays can harm undeveloped film. Never put film in checked baggage, since the high power x-rays will fog all speeds. The scanner for carry-on luggage is generally safe (in the U.S.) for speeds up to 400 and maybe one pass for 800. You are generally allowed to request hand inspection of higher speed films. Digital cameras are immune to x-rays, but the digital storage media can be affected by the magnetic fields of the wand and the walk-through metal-detector. Put your digital and all storage cards through the carry-on x-ray machine.
March 15, 2004
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Daniel J. Nolan |
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I have written an extensive article on x-ray damage to undeveloped film, including some photo examples. It's not usually the first x-ray pass that damages the film. But it's the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th, if you've been to multiple airports - or if they run it back and forth to get another look. See my web site at dannolansphotography.com for samples and details. It's under articles - X-ray. Get a lead film bag to be safer.
March 19, 2004
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Douglas Hanlon |
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You may even try putting your undeveloped film in a clear plastic bag and have it passed over the counter.
March 21, 2004
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clifford |
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I read somewhere that the 'lead bags' are not a good idea as this ups the intensity of the photons and makes things worse! The x-ray machines are set up to find a way past the item and therefore a barriar will make the thing try harder. I do like the response from Douglas. (simple ideas are often.......)
March 23, 2004
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