 BetterPhoto Member |
lIFESPAN OF UNUSED 35MM FILM I have come accross several 135 x 24 exposure films, I am a total novice and was wondering if the above has a shelf life as I do not know how old it is.
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robert G. Fately |
The shelf life of film depends on the filmspeed (faster film goes stale faster than slow) and the ambient temperature at which it was stored (heat ruins film faster). If these rolls aren't in their boxes (which would have expiration dates, like milk) and you are not sure of what kind of conditions it was stored in (left in a car trunk in the summertime two years ago?) then the quality is suspect at this point. You could take a quick roll of shots and take it to a local 1 hour place to develope to see if the pictures are acceptable.
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Michael H. Cothran |
Bill, There IS a shelf life/expirartion date for film, but at best, it's a very conservative guide. I have never encountered any problems whatsoever using older, outdated film. And I mean 10-15 years out of date!! As long as the film has been stored at room temperature, or better, in the refrigerator, it should be fine. The way I see it, you don't have a whole lot to lose here. Simply put a roll in your camera, go out in your backyard or someplace nearby, and test a roll. If it looks good after processing, fine, if not, discard the rest. What could be simpler? I would not, however, recommend using out-dated film for any professional job, ie, any shooting that you're being paid to do. Use this film, if good, for personal pleasure shooting. Michael H. Cothran
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