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photographic technician
Photographic technicians work either in film processing, digital imaging or print finishing. They can work for large photofinishing operations, professional processing laboratories supporting photographers, or in mini-labs.
Film Processing technicians use computer-controlled equipment to process films before printing, or scanning on to a disc. Processing can be adjusted to take into account the lighting conditions and exposure of the film, to ensure the highest quality product. Technicians also check, label and sleeve prints or discs for customers. They need to be aware of health and safety issues when dealing with chemicals, and maintain equipment regularly. Film processing technicians can work in large processing labs or in small mini-labs.
Digital imaging technicians are skilled at design and layout. Using a computer, they scan images and manipulate them digitally before printing. They have regular contact with their customers to discuss the format and finish of the image. Before printing, technicians will resize and adjust the image, and find the most suitable paper and printer. Digital imaging technicians also build up image banks by cataloguing and archiving images. They often work with photographers or marketing and advertising clients.
Print finishers specialise in the mounting and finishing of prints, and are skilled at using laminating and precision cutting equipment. Attached to professional labs, they work on large format prints for exhibition and display purposes.
Skillset's website has more detailed information about job roles in photo-imaging - see Further Information.
Hours and Environment
Most photographic technicians work between 37 and 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday, although shift work may be required in some larger laboratories.
The laboratory environment is usually clean, and gloves are worn when handling films. Protective clothing is worn when working with chemicals. In print finishing, the work can be physical with some lifting and standing.
Skills and Interests
To be a photographic technician you should:
- have good colour vision and an eye for contrast and density when making corrections
- have a calm, methodical and well ordered approach
- be accurate, pay attention to detail and meet deadlines
- have in an interest in photographic techniques
- have numeracy skills for processing times, exposures and film speeds
- have analytical and mechanical skills to maintain equipment and diagnose faults
- have good communication skills to interpret clients' instructions
- be creative and have design skills when working in digital imaging.
Entry
There are no set entry requirements to become a photographic laboratory technician. For work in mini-labs or large photofinishing labs, employers may ask for GCSEs/S grades in maths and a science subject, an interest in photography and some computer skills.
In professional labs, entry requirements depend on the nature of the work but may include formal qualifications in photography such as the BTEC National Diploma in Art & Design (Photography), which includes units in processing and digital imaging. See Photographer profile for more details.
Digital imaging technicians will need some experience of working with desktop publishing packages, such as Photoshop, Quark, Illustrator or InDesign, and often need Apple Macintosh (Mac) computer skills. They may require qualifications formally recognised by the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP), which include:
- BTEC National Diploma in Art & Design (Photography)
- BTEC Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Art & Design (Photography)
- Foundation Degree in Photography
- BA (Hons) in Photography and Imaging.
New entrants to print finishing will need to demonstrate practical skills, eg woodworking, modelling or framing.
Training
New entrants usually train on the job and may also attend short courses run by manufacturers. It is possible to study vocational qualifications while working, which include:
- NVQ/SVQ Levels 2 and 3 in Photo Processing (Mini-lab Processing or Laboratory Operations options are available)
- NVQ/SVQ Levels 2, 3 and 4 in Photo-imaging.
Technicians working in digital imaging may complete a variety of short professional development courses or workshops in image manipulation techniques such as photoshop, toning and tinting.
Skillset provides a database of media courses including photography, digital imaging and photo processing, and can advise on recognised training providers and NVQs. Skillset Careers can advise on entering the industry or developing your career.
Apprenticeships in photo-imaging may be available for those under the age of 24. In England these are currently Apprenticeships (level 2) and Advanced Apprenticeships (level 3). To find out more about these, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk
Apprenticeships may be different in other areas. For further information see Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland.
Opportunities
There is a shortage of technicians at all grades, particularly in London and south east England. Digital imaging has changed the photo processing industry and is likely to create new jobs. In many areas, traditional photographic methods have been replaced by, or combined with, digital imaging.
Large photo finishing companies use semi-skilled staff to operate the computer-controlled machinery, although it is possible to move into more highly skilled jobs. There are hundreds of mini-labs across the country, and finding a job is relatively easy, although potential for advancement may be limited. Since mini-labs are usually franchises, it may be possible, with some capital, to manage one as a small business.
Technicians may also be employed in laboratories in hospitals or research establishments.
Self-employment is possible. There may be opportunities to progress to senior technician and into management. Technicians may change employers to gain experience or to achieve promotion.
Annual Income
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
New entrants in photo processing could earn between £8,000 and £15,000.
More experienced technicians can earn between £15,000 and £25,000.
Skilled digital imaging technicians working in professional processing labs, can earn up to £35,000.
Further information
London
EC2A 4QS
Tel: 020 7739 6669
Tel: 0808 100 8094 for Scotland
80-110 New Oxford Street
London
WC1A 1HB
2 Amwell End
Ware
Hertfordshire
SG12 9HN
Tel: 01920 464011
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The information contained in our Career Profiles Database was correct at time of publishing, but since publication certain details may have changed so please use this section as a research tool and in some cases further research may be required.
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