Film Photography Resources
Essential guides and tips for protecting your film and improving your photography workflow.
✈️ Traveling with Film
Airport Security Best Practices
- Always request hand inspection for film ISO 800 and above
- Arrive early to allow time for manual inspection
- Keep film in clear, easily accessible containers
- Bring a printed copy of TSA film guidelines
- Be polite but firm when requesting hand inspection
Packing Tips
- Use lead-lined bags for checked luggage only
- Pack film in carry-on whenever possible
- Store film in cool, dry places during travel
- Avoid leaving film in hot cars or direct sunlight
- Consider shipping exposed film home from long trips
📷 Film Handling & Storage
Storage Guidelines
- Store unexposed film in the refrigerator (not freezer)
- Let refrigerated film reach room temperature before use
- Keep film in original packaging until ready to use
- Process exposed film as soon as possible
- Use desiccant packets in humid environments
Loading & Unloading
- Change film in shade or subdued light
- Keep film canisters closed until ready to load
- Advance film slowly to avoid static marks
- Mark exposed rolls clearly to avoid double exposure
- Use a changing bag for difficult lighting conditions
🎯 Shooting Techniques
Exposure Tips
- Meter for the shadows, develop for the highlights
- Use a handheld light meter for precision
- Bracket important shots (+/- 1 stop)
- Understand your film's characteristic curve
- Consider push/pull processing for creative effects
Camera Maintenance
- Clean lens regularly with proper materials
- Check light seals annually
- Service mechanical cameras every 3-5 years
- Test light meter accuracy against known good meter
- Keep spare batteries for electronic cameras
🌍 International Travel
Country-Specific Tips
- Research local customs regulations
- Some countries limit professional equipment
- Carry equipment insurance documentation
- Know phrases for "hand inspection" in local language
- Consider carnet for expensive equipment
Documentation
- Print equipment serial numbers list
- Carry proof of purchase for expensive gear
- Have backup copies of important documents
- Store digital copies in cloud storage
- Register with customs before departure if required
📱 Essential Apps & Tools
Our Recommendation
FH
Film Handcheck
Airport Film Policies
Get real-time information about airport hand inspection policies worldwide.
Other Useful Tools
- Light Meter Apps: For backup metering
- Sun Position Apps: Plan golden hour shots
- Weather Apps: Check conditions before heading out
- Film Stock Databases: Research emulsion characteristics
- Lab Finders: Locate processing labs while traveling
📚 Recommended Reading
Essential Books
- "The Film Photography Handbook" - Chris Marquardt
- "Film Is Not Dead" - Jonathan Canlas
- "The Art, Science, and Craft of Great Landscape Photography" - Glenn Randall
- "Light and Lens" - Robert Hirsch
Online Communities
- r/AnalogCommunity - Reddit film photography community
- EMULSIVE - Film photography magazine and community
- Film Photography Project - Podcast and resources
- Casual Photophile - Camera reviews and film tips
Need More Help?
Have questions about film photography or traveling with equipment? We're here to help.