Storing film materials in improper temperature and humidity conditions can lead to irreversible damages to the structure of the film. If films are stored in the temperature that exceeds 21°C and air humidity above 60% RH, a large risk occurs of the growth of microorganisms on the photographic emulsion or even the base, which is relatively seldom the case though. Direct pouring on the film creates the conditions that enable fast and dynamic growth of mould and bacteria. Microorganisms in film materials can cause a change in the optical density of the image or faded colour in some places. Correcting the resulting faults in an analogue manner is impossible. Damaged gelatine in the emulsion layer becomes sticky and easily soluble in water.

Cud nad Wisłą (1921), phot. Monika Supruniuk