Abstract: An electronic image printing apparatus is provided on the front face thereof with an improved downloading film access door assembly. The door assembly pivots substantially under the force of gravity from an upright closed position to an extended fully open position wherein a film cassette may be inserted into and/or withdrawn from a film cassette receiving carriage which is disposed for controlled reciprocal sliding translation during the printing process. A dashpot is provided for dampening the pivotal movement of the film loading access door so that it progressively decelerates as it approaches its open extended position so as to gradually come to a stop without substantial vibration or shock. The dashpot also includes a spring which extends through the back wall thereof to counter the increase in the weight induced opening torque as the door pivots downwardly.