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Photographic Laboratory Workers

Outlook

Employment for photographic process workers and processing machine operators is expected to grow by 2 percent from 2023 through 2033, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. This is more slowly than the average for all careers. Most openings will occur as a result of the need to replace workers, especially machine operators.

Digital photography is extremely popular among amateurs and professionals. Although digital images will never completely replace print photos, it has led to the significant decline of print photos. As digital cameras, mobile devices, and image manipulation software continue to drop in price and gain in popularity, the need for photographic lab workers will decrease further.