You may have seen or heard online that storing your film in a refrigerator can help preserve your film and protect it from damage. This may sound strange, it's true! Whether you're just starting out or have been shooting film for years, it's worth considering the benefits of refrigerating your film.
The primary reason to store film in a refrigerator is to control its temperature. Film is sensitive to changes in temperature and can easily be affected by heat, especially when stored in warm or humid environments. By keeping your film in a refrigerator, you can maintain a consistent and cool temperature that will help preserve its quality and ensure that your images come out as intended.
Another benefit of refrigerating film is that it helps prevent the growth of bacteria and other forms of contamination. This is especially important for color film, which can be particularly sensitive to contamination. By keeping your film in a clean and controlled environment, you can help ensure that your images are free from any unwanted streaks or spots.
By doing this, you can help extend its shelf life, especially if done immediately after purchasing. All film has expiration dates which serve as reference for when quality can be guaranteed. After a while, improperly stored film can result in color shifts, light insensitivity, and other issues. By keeping your film in a refrigerator, you can slow down this process and ensure that your film lasts as long as possible.
As weird as it may sound, refrigerating your film can have a number of benefits for film photographers. By controlling its temperature, preventing contamination, and extending its shelf life, you can help ensure that your film is ready to use when you are and that your images come out as intended. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, it's worth considering the benefits of refrigerating your film.
Happy shooting!
--Matt Rygh