TraditionalPhotographer.NET / On Photography / Location and Travel Photography / USA trip / Latest Posts

RE: USA trip

roteague — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 22:09:00 GMT

No worries, I'm glad the trip worked out for you. From what you have written it sounds like you had a great time, and got some great images as well.

RE: USA trip

PhotoBob — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 20:14:11 GMT

Thanks for the replies.

RE: USA trip

George — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 12:33:34 GMT

Bob,

You don't say where you're coming from.

If you shoot 120/220 it's actually easier to avoid the hand-inspection request issue than it is with 135. This is because unwrapped 120/220 rolls of film have no metal parts. So they can pass through the passenger magnetron without setting off any alarm like a 135 cartridge will do.

I learned of this "trick" on another website and, as I regularly travel b/w homes in NYC and Tucson, AZ, I've been able to confirm that it works.

Now, of course, this is best done when you are only carrying a few rolls. You don't want to be going through the "screen" with huge bulges in your pockets. But, if you're only planning a day's worth of shooting - I doubt you'd have all that many rolls.

I do stress that the rolls should be unwrapped since I think at least some wrappers contain metal. But it really does work. Last Sunday (2/24) I walked through in Tucson with an exposed roll of 220 in my pants pocket - no issues at all.

On a separate note - I've never been refused hand inspection of 135 film by the TSA. Just be prepared by removing the rolls from the containers and place them in a clear plastic "baggie". Have the baggie out and ready to hand to the TSA inspector just as you put your carry-on luggage onto the conveyor belt for the x-ray. Ask the inspector monitoring the x-ray screen for a hand inspection. S/he will then call over another TSA person to take the bag and that inspector will do a "chemical swipe" on each roll at the far end of the security station.

I've done this numerous times and have never had any problems. Just remember - while you do have the "right" to hand inspection of film - always ask for your "rights" politely! :)

RE: USA trip

roteague — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 20:38:01 GMT

I haven't been to Las Vegas in years, but I've seen some really neat stuff from the Valley of Fire State Park. It is just about 55 miles northeast of LV.

http://parks.nv.gov/vf.htm

You may remember the Star Trek movie where Capt. Kirk dies - that scene was filmed there.

RE: USA trip

naturephoto1 — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 19:16:36 GMT

Hi Bob,

I would say that TSA is more familiar with and in handling 35mm than 120 format. Though, I have traveled with both 120 format and Fuji QL for 4 X 5. I would suggest if at all possible though to have the film out of the boxes in clear zip lock bags and to ask for hand search whether it is B&W or transparencies. If it is at all possible try to avoid having the film X-Rayed. I know, the faster the film the greater the issue, but I still do not think that it is a good idea.

Also, if the film is a very recognizable maker such as Kodak or Fuji, it may make it easier to get through a TSA hand inspection.

Rich

USA trip

PhotoBob — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 11:52:59 GMT

Hi
I'm headed for Nevada for a conference early next month.
I'm not interested in the city - I'd rather look for the unique in the landscape around Vegas.
Any ideas, I'm planning to use Saturday after the conference to dedicate to photography.
I'm also not sure what to take, 35mm or 645
I'll probably also use transparency film over B & W
Is one easier than the other through customs, US customs, another concern of mine.
Any suggestions are appreciated.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
Bob