EFFECTS OF AMBIENT CONDITIONS
ON FILM SENSITIVITY
P.D. Carman and S.F. Johnston
National Research Council
Ottawa, Canada
ABSTRACT
In practical use, photographic films are often subject to ambient
conditions of temperature or humidity which are far from optimum, and
which are difficult or almost impossible to avoid. Although efforts
should always be made to follow film manufacturers' recommendations on
handling films in good ambient conditions, it appears desirable to have
available quantitative information on the effects of various departures
from optimum conditions and on techniques for minimizing adverse
effects.
Information based on practical experiences and on research studies
in several Canadian organizations is reported. Data are provided, for
certain samples of color and black and white film, on the sensitometric
effects of storage for various times and at various elevated tempera-
tures both before and after exposure. Low humidity in flight causes
adverse effects on color, which are easily avoided. Problems can arise
in transferring film from cold storage to camera and in handling
between exposure and processing.
1. INTRODUCTION
Manufacturers recommendations and other specifications make
various statements about the conditions under which film should be
handled. Some are paraphrased below. |
"Store unexposed film at -20?C."
"Remove it to room temperature at least 8, or 24, or 48 hours
before use."
"Keep below 70?F (21?C) for 2-month storage."
NRC 16624