Films being in and out of the freezer and longevity

Hello Everyone,

Now it's about 32 deg Celsius and 40% RH in Dhaka. Both will increase soon (up to 38 deg. C. and 95+% RH) - perhaps this is what's spurred me to write this. Does the quality and longevity of film significantly affected if films are being in and out of the freezer frequently? I guess I'm asking whether the effect is marginally significant to be worried about.

Here is what intend to do: take one or two bulks rolls (and other films) out of the freezer to refill a few 35mm film cassettes (, dark slides, and similar things in future) and then put the bulk films back to freezer. FYI, I would first transfer the particular film box to the fridge from (the freezer), wait and then take it outside to reach normal/ambient temperature.

I understand that colour films (, particularly slides,) are quite prone to colour shifts over time. Is there anything special I need to be doing for colour negative and slide films in and out of the freezer?

Bests,

Ashfaque

I don't have the experience to answer your question, but from what I've read, after you open the container, you risk introducing humidity.
This can condense and freeze to the emulsion, damaging it. I'm sure some people have found a way around this (and I can think of a few good ones), but it is something to consider.

In general, I would also think the fewer the freeze-thaw cycles the better (even for non-film items).

First, it's not meat. Thawing and refreezing meat damages it. I have never had any problem with film. I often keep my bulk roll in my bulk loader. I take it out of the freezer and let it warm up for overnight or so. Load my cassettes, then put the loader in a plastic bag, drawing as much air out as possible, seal with a 'twisty tie' and put back in the freezer. I've been doing this for at least 50 years, and have had no problems.
40% RH is not bad. I can see that if the RH was around 100%, a lot of moisture could be trapped. My only caution is, seal in a plastic bag, drawing out as much air as possible, and, always allow ample time for warm up before opening the package.

Truzi said:

I don't have the experience to answer your question, but from what I've read, after you open the container, you risk introducing humidity.
This can condense and freeze to the emulsion, damaging it. I'm sure some people have found a way around this (and I can think of a few good ones), but it is something to consider.

In general, I would also think the fewer the freeze-thaw cycles the better (even for non-film items).

Click to expand...

Yes humidity is the concern.... Keep it in the wrapper unopened if you can but 35mm isn't normally wrapped so it may be prone to humidity... Maybe some desiccant packets with the film when your out and about if you think you're going to refreeze it...

Oh better yet... Shoot those rolls quickly and shoot alot


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Bruce, Truzi and heespharm: Thanks everyone.

Heespharm: Thanks for the tip on desiccant packets. This would certainly help when during the monsoon outside.

I generally keep the films in smaller zip-lock bags. I then use a straw to draw out as much air as possible before closing them. Then they go to various air-tight plastic boxes. Then all colour and B&W ones go inside freezer and fridge, respectively. But now I'm thinking of keeping most B&W in the freezer too - except for 1-2 months' stocks.

To avoid condensation and humidity related problems: After I take the bulk rolls (& other films) out of the fridge, I keep them in my room with the air conditioner on (@ around 20-23 deg. C). I noticed that this helps to reduce the possibility of condensation - almost non-existent, provided I don't open the plastic box until it reaches the ambient temperature of the AC'd room. So far I've been successful.

However, I couldn't find the information on the changes in quality and longevity of films being in and out of the freezer.

Bests,