Digital Imaging Specialist
Digital Imaging Specialists who work in professional laboratories enjoy a fast-paced and interesting working day. They are responsible for the downloading of files, scanning, colour management, digital manipulation and colour correction of images. They will also be involved in the output of photographic images using a variety of printing devices, as well as some design and layout work.
The Digital Imaging Specialist must work closely with other members of the laboratory team and needs a good understanding of the end uses that may be made of the images. The work is largely technical and pay rates are moderate, however, the work is stable and employees enjoy the benefits of regular pay, holidays and other benefits.
What is the job?
The Digital Imaging Specialist works at a computer workstation scanning film or prints, or transferring digitally-originated images (from the internet, CD-ROM, DVD or memory cards) into the system. They then colour correct and digitally manipulate these images for printing or archiving. Digital Imaging Specialists do not need to take photographs; however, they will need to discuss images with photographers and designers, and it therefore helps if they have a knowledge and love of photography and an understanding of the end uses of the images they help to produce.
Digital Imaging Specialists must first agree the format and finish of the image with the client. They then use image manipulation software such as Photoshop to resize, reformat, colour correct, vary the contrast and size of images, remove unwanted background, or combine features from different photographs. Images are then output as digital files or printed using a variety of computerised printing equipment and professional inkjet printers. While most contemporary photo images are now originated on digital cameras, scanning negatives, transparencies and prints is still likely to form part of the job. There is also a considerable amount of work in the restoration of old photographs. Digital Imaging Specialists may also be involved in the archiving and cataloguing of images.
This type of work requires a high-level of data and colour management. The Digital Imaging Specialist needs to be able to accurately assess the colour, density and contrast level of images. They also need to calibrate all digital manipulation and printing equipment on a regular basis to ensure optimum results.
Some professional laboratories also offer basic design services in relation to the production of exhibition stands, banners and point of sale display systems. Where this is the case, Digital Imaging Specialists may be expected to carry out some design and layout work using professional desktop publishing programmes like Quark, Illustrator and InDesign. Depending on the laboratory's areas of speciality they may also be asked to help in the design of photo collages for posters, display panels and other value-added products (e.g. wedding boxes). They may also be expected to operate some of the specialised printing equipment when required (see Skillset Job Profile for Minilab Operator - Laboratory/Machine Print Operator).
Digital Imaging Specialists are usually full-time employees who work a 38-40 hour working week. This means that while rates of pay are moderate, they do enjoy the benefits of a regular salary, holidays and a pension plan.
Typical career routes
Many Digital Imaging Specialists currently working for professional laboratories progressed into this role from film processing, print finishing or photographic printing work. However, this situation is changing with many colleges now offering NVQ and SVQ qualifications in Digital Imaging. This means that new entrants can now secure positions directly from college, without previous laboratory experience.
Digital Imaging Specialists may also be employed in a similar capacity in photo imaging laboratories within hospitals or scientific research establishments - and a few are self-employed. There may also be opportunities for some Digital Imaging Specialists to progress into laboratory management or new product development.
Essential knowledge and skills
A keen interest in photography, strong visual awareness and a very high standard of computer skills are essential for this role. Digital Imaging Specialists need to have first-rate computer skills, particularly in the use of Photoshop, and experience in using Macs as well as PCs is advantageous. It will also help if they are familiar with other design software packages, such as Quark, Illustrator and InDesign, and have a personal interest in photography and the processes of image creation.
Good colour vision is essential, as is the ability to accurately assess the colour, density and the contrast level of images. The principles of colour grading can be taught; however, this is a skill that usually takes many years to perfect.
Digital Imaging Specialists should be confident and knowledgeable when dealing with clients and other members of their team. They should be able to interpret instructions accurately and work methodically under pressure to meet deadlines without compromising quality. They should also have good mathematical skills and an understanding of the importance of geometric ratios. All digital equipment must be regularly calibrated to produce optimum results, and scanning images for high end use requires patience and close attention to detail.
There are National Occupational Standards (NOS) for Photo Imaging. These give a detailed breakdown of the knowledge, awareness and skills needed to effectively carry out a particular job role. The NOS relevant to this job are listed at the end of this profile.
Training and qualifications
There are no formal entry requirements for this role and many laboratories currently employ people who were previously film processing technicians, photographic printers or print finishers before they added computing and digital imaging existing skills to their other work experience. Many colleges now offer NVQ and SVQ qualifications in Digital Imaging, so it is now possible to apply for this kind of work directly from college.
Applicants will be expected to have good computing skills and a working knowledge of image manipulation software, such as Photoshop. Experience with desktop publishing software, such as Quark, Illustrator or InDesign will also be a bonus. Some image producers may also advertise for personnel with a BTEC National Diploma in Art & Design (Photography), or a BTEC Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Art & Design (Photography)
Employers may support work-based qualifications, such as Apprenticeships and NVQ/SVQs. Photo Imaging NVQ/SVQs are currently available at levels 2, 3 and 4.
For this information and more, please view the attached PDF.
Digital Imaging Specialist
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