Photo Printing Worker
しゃしんやきつけこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that exposes photographic paper to negative film or digital data and fixes images through chemical processing. Manages chemicals and light levels in darkroom work to create high-quality photo prints.
Description
Photo printing workers are specialists who expose photographs from negative film or digital data onto photographic paper. They operate exposure devices in darkrooms or dedicated booths, setting appropriate light intensity and exposure times. For color development, they use the C-41 process; for monochrome, they manage fixer chemical concentrations, and fix images through chemical processing. After exposure, they go through development, stopping, fixing, washing, and drying processes, then inspect the finish. They also perform color tone correction, contrast adjustment, trimming, lamination, and other post-processing as needed.
Future Outlook
With the progress of digitalization, demand for traditional silver halide photography is declining, but niche markets for art photography and high-quality printing remain. Adoption of digital printing technology and automation is advancing, and demand is expected to increase for personnel skilled in both analog and digital techniques.
Personality Traits
Excellent aesthetic sense / Meticulous / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Photo Lab Technician → Senior Photo Printing Worker → Lab Chief → Photo Production Manager
Required Skills
Color Correction / Darkroom Equipment Operation / Development and Fixing Processing / Image Editing (Exposure Adjustment) / Photographic Paper Management
Recommended Skills
Color Theory / Digital Printing Machine Operation / Image Editing Software (Photoshop etc.) / Quality Management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Attention to detail is required to detect subtle color unevenness or exposure irregularities. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly standing work, but heavy labor is minimal. |
Related Jobs
- DTP Operator
- Photo Developer
- Printing Machine Operator