35mm photographic film - storage

[katmakenian]

I have always been a keen amateur photographer and what with the advent of digital photography, I find myself in the position of a LOT of excess 35mm film left over and I am wondering what the shelf life is with it. I was told a few years ago that it can be stored indefinitely, as long as it's kept in the fridge. Anyone got any ideas they'd like to share with me? Ta muchly! Kat x

[fo3nix]

Keep it dark, cool and dry, and it should be fine for a good few years.

However, I think you should think about getting a decent film scanner (Nikon Coolscan EX was among the best a few years back, not looked into it since), to scan them in.

It's time consuming, but once they're in as a digital format like tiffs, you can back them up, meaning that hopefully you should never lose them.

[katmakenian]

Thanks for answering Fo3nix - I appreciate it! Kat x

[heathfield]

Agree with the advice you were given. Top professional film was always kept in a fridge, even in our local Jessops. Reason being, it helps prevent the dyes from fading.

[katmakenian]

Cheers Heath - I never knew that about preventing the dyes from fading! Thank you! Kat x

[ianmunt]

Refrigeration will prolong life considerably,just remember to give them a day or two coming up to room temperature before using,and keep in original sealed containers

[katmakenian]

Thanks Ian. I've kept them all in their original Truprint Wrappers and they're in the Fridge in a large container, all kept together. I've had them a few years though so am just wondering how long I should chance it by keeping them and of course doing a test shoot with one film won't necessarily give an indication as to the quality of the other films either!! I think I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place!! lol. Thanks again Ian! Kat x