Effects of ambient conditions on film sensitivity

In practical use, photographic films are often subject to ambient conditions of temperature or humidity which are far from optimal, and which are difficult or almost impossible to avoid. Although efforts should always be made to follow film manufacturers' recommendations on handling films in good ambient conditions, it appears desirable to have available quantitative information on the effects of various departures from optimal conditions and on techniques for minimising adverse effects. Information based on practical experiences and on research studies in several Canadian organizations is reported. Data are provided, for certain samples of color and black and white film, on the sensitometric effects of storage for various times and at various elevated temperatures both before and after exposure. Low humidity in flight causes adverse effects on colour which are easily avoided. Problems can arise in transferring film from cold storage to camera and in handling between exposure and processing