AboutSteve Pearson Expertise Try me for 35mm or darkroom issues. I am a professional photographer in Australia. I work solely in 35mm digital format, after 35 years of colour and monochrome film in many formats. I have darkroom experience and for many years belonged to my local camera club. I conduct photography workshops around the state on any and most subjects relating to photography and often judge photography exhibitions and competitions.
Experience I hold a Diploma of Applied Science in Forensic Investigation, with part of my studies involving photography. I spend most days with a camera and am into digital photography in a big way. I was given my first camera in 1965 and have not been without one since. I spent nearly 20 years as a forensic investigator with my state Police Force, and since retiring a couple of years ago have concentrated on commercial photography - especially weddings.
Expert: Steve Pearson Date: 7/29/2004 Subject: Out Of Date Camera Film
Question Is it OK to use film which is 1 to 2 years old in an ordinary SLR camera? What would the photos look like?
Answer Raj. Yes, out of date film is okay as long as it hasn't been sitting in the glove compartment of your vehicle for that time. I often scout the photo shops for out of date film that is sitting in a 'discount basket' on the counter. Most times it is just out of date or about to go out of date. I take it home and put it in the fridge where it stays - sometimes for many years - until I want to use it. Film itself is only a transparent 'plastic' strip that supports the chemical emulsion to accept an image. Being a chemical, and like nearly all chemicals, it will keep much longer if kept cool. A bit like milk I suppose. Leave it out and it goes off. Keep it in the fridge and it keeps longer. I bought 20 rolls of Kodachrome 64 slide film 15 years ago that was out of date - just. That went straight into the fridge. I still have 2 rolls left to use. They have all been perfect so far and I don't expect that to change. Just remember, if you do refrigerate your film, take it out at least half an hour before you want to use it and allow it to come up to room temperature before you even open the canister. Do not put cold film into your camera or it will get condensation in there. So, to answer your question - "Yes, it is okay to use film that is 1 to 2 years old." As long as the film hasn't been cooked by excessive heat the photos will look normal. Good luck - and I would appreciate your feedback on this one.
Steve Pearson.
