Film reel on table aged

Aged film reel on a table, a symbol of the analog era in documentary cinema and archival photography.

About this subject

A film reel (photographic or cinematographic) is a physical medium that stores images in sequence, widely used before the digital era. In documentary photography, formats like 16mm and 35mm were essential for recording historical events, cultures, and landscapes. 16mm, introduced by Kodak in 1923, became popular among documentarians for its balance of quality and portability, used in productions such as 'Nanook of the North' (1922) and National Geographic works.

With the rise of digital, film declined, but its legacy remains in archives and collections. Reels consist of a cellulose acetate or polyester base coated with a light-sensitive emulsion. Acetate, however, is prone to 'vinegar syndrome', a chemical degradation that releases acetic acid and damages images. Proper preservation requires controlled temperature and humidity, as well as storage in acid-free enclosures.

Interestingly, many contemporary documentaries still use film for its unique aesthetic and grain, valued by filmmakers like Terrence Malick. An aged reel, like the one in the image, evokes not only nostalgia but also the importance of preserving audiovisual heritage. Institutions such as the Cinemateca Brasileira work to digitize collections to ensure future access to these records.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a film reel?

A film reel is a physical spool holding a strip of photosensitive material, used to capture and store sequential images (cinema) or individual photographs. Common formats include 16mm and 35mm.

How did documentary photography change with the end of film?

Digital brought greater accessibility and storage capacity, but reduced the grain and texture characteristic of film. Many documentarians still prefer film for its aesthetic and the discipline it imposes on shooting.

How to preserve old film reels?

Store reels in a cool place (below 20°C) with 30-50% relative humidity, away from direct sunlight. Use acid-free enclosures and avoid touching the emulsion. Digitization is recommended to preserve the content.