Photo Development Operator
しゃしんげんぞうオペレーター
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A technical job that develops and fixes films and photo paper using specialized equipment and chemicals, up to printing.
Description
Photo development operators are specialists who chemically process exposed films in darkrooms or developing machines for fixation and washing, then print onto photo paper. They accurately prepare developer and fixer solutions, manage temperatures and timer settings, and adjust color tones and gradations. Recently, combined use with digital scanning and color correction software has increased, requiring skills in quality control and troubleshooting.
Future Outlook
Due to the progress of digitalization, demand for traditional film development is on a declining trend, but a niche market is expected to remain due to the revival of analog processes in hobby and art fields.
Personality Traits
Excellent Visual Sense / High Concentration / Meticulous / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Junior Operator → Photo Lab Manager → Quality Control Staff → Technical Instructor/Trainer
Required Skills
Color Tone Adjustment / Darkroom Work / Handling Chemicals (Developer Chemicals) / Operation of Developing Machines and Printers
Recommended Skills
Color Management / Image Editing / Quality Control / Scanner Operation
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because slight differences in chemical processing affect the final result. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because work follows standardized procedures. |
Related Qualifications
- Photo Master Certification
- Photographic Technician
Aliases
- Developer Technician
- Photo Lab Operator
Related Jobs
- Photo Development Technician
- Photo Retoucher
- Photo Studio Staff