Kodak photographic films can be refrigerated in their original unopened packaging, and doing so insures that they’re protected from heat and humidity. While there is not generally any benefit to freezing film it can be frozen as well. However, before use they should be allowed to achieve room temperature, and that can take as long as 1 1/2 hours from from 0°F (-18°C). (Allowing a few hours may be a good idea to be on the safe side. Always store the film in a moisture proof plastic bag or container and allow the container to warm up to room temperature before opening. Otherwise condensation can form on the warming film and create spots on your pictures. Make sure that the water resistant can or wrapper is not opened before it reaches room temperature.

We did want to mention that while storage in a refrigerator or freezer can be highly beneficial in some cases, you should not rely on it to extend film life beyond the “Develop Before” date. This is especially important with high-speed films, which can be fogged by cosmic and gamma radiation that is naturally present all around us. Neither cooling nor lead-foil bags will prevent this effect.

You should normally store most Kodak professional color films in their original sealed packaging under refrigeration at 55°F (13°C) or lower. These films are made and tested for the consistency required in professional use. Always refrigerate these films to maintain consistent performance. More specific storage conditions are given for special-purpose films such as KODAK EKTACHROME PROFESSIONAL Infrared EIR Film, which requires freezing. Thaw it just before use. Kodak consumer
films have their storage instructions on the carton exterior and should normally be stored at 70 °F or lower.

For more information on recommended storage procedures, please visit the following area on our web site:

http://www.kodak.com/global/en/consu…Contents.shtml

Sincerely,

Consumer Affairs Advisor
Kodak Information Center