Store in freezer or keep temp constant?

[amoz]

Hi all, I have the choice of storing my film in a freezer that cools down to -1/-2C (28/26F) or keep it at the average air temperature (which is about 30C (86F) here in Congo DRC. Once a film is in use, it will be exposed to even higher temperatures when it sits in my MP/R2A and is taken for long trips in the sun.

I know the logical choice would be to store it in the freezer but I am especially worried about the consequences of sudden temperature changes --when taking it out for using in the hot sun, then putting it back for storage, and later taking it back out for travelling again. Should I put the used film in the freezer maybe, and store the unlit film at room temperature?

For your information, I am talking about Fuji Velvia 100 and Kodak Tri-X 400.

Thanks for any advice you can share!

 

[kully]

I used to keep all my film in a freezer.

The thing to be careful of is taking is straight from the freezer and putting it in the camera - condensation forms on the film and you get some ruined frames.

The best thing will be to do some forward planning and take out what film you might think you need in the morning when it is cool and allow it to 'defrost' for an hour or so. Whatever you need for the next few days.

Use the freezer as your long-term storage and don't worry about leaving film out at room tempreture for a few days or a week or two.

Of course, exposed film which you are not getting developed over there can be put back in the freezer (perhaps take or get some freezer bags).

 

[MartinP]

What everyones says . . . and also, make sure you somehow label each individual roll of exposed film. When the inevitable ripped bag of film occurs in the freezer you will then be able to avoid embarassing mistakes.
😉

 

[amoz]

OK, thanks for all suggestions! I have just put them in the freezer, and will go with defrosting the ones I need every morning.

Getting the same advice from all three of you gives me peace of mind, which is always nice.

Cheers.

 

[Max Power]

Just an additonal thought...

Something I do when I pull film out of the 'fridge/freezer is to put it into a ziplock (if you have access to one) and throw in a couple of dessicant packs (again, if you can get them). That way most condensation is kept on the outside of the bag, and the dessicant simply ensures that any inside is kept off of the film.

Come to think of it, I've used the same method for bringing cameras and film into the house after shooting outdoors in the winter.