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Photographic Laboratory Workers

Work Environment

Photographic laboratories are usually clean, well lit (except for darkroom areas), and air-conditioned. Many of the jobs performed by semiskilled workers are limited and repetitive and may become monotonous. The jobs often entail sitting or standing for a considerable amount of time in one place. Employees in these jobs need patience and ability to concentrate on details.

Some employees, such as printer operators, photo checkers, and assemblers who examine small images very closely, may be subject to eyestrain. Process workers may be exposed to chemicals and fumes, requiring safety precautions.

Photographic laboratory work has peak seasons: end of spring (school graduations), summer (weddings and vacations), and the holiday season.

Though the work of developers and darkroom technicians can be technical or tedious at times, their contributions to the clarity and beauty of the finished photographs can be a great source of satisfaction.