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| Public domain image by Juan Perez |
The photographic and physical properties of film are affected by high temperatures and humidity. Work undertaken in hot environments therefore has its own set of problems. When using film it is generally important to keep both exposed and unexposed stock as cool as possible. Emulsion ripens rapidly at high temperatures and in extreme heat, such as in a closed car left parked in the sun, a bag of film can be ruined in a few hours. Film can also be damaged by formalin vapour such as that released by new furniture, plywood and paint.
Should film stock be subjected to extremely high (or low) temperatures, it is wise to allow the emulsion to return to ambient temperature before it is exposed. Otherwise it may behave in an unexpected manner. Film may typically be specified to perform best at temperatures between 5oC and 40oC, although it is important to check the specification for the medium in use.
Digital photographic equipment may also experience problems at high temperatures although in most environments this should not present a problem. However, nickel cadmium batteries do not perform well when raised to a high temperature.