What does a film laboratory technician do?

What is a Film Laboratory Technician?

Film laboratory technicians are the professionals responsible for processing and developing photographic film in a film laboratory. They work with both still and motion picture film, using various chemicals, equipment, and techniques to produce high-quality images. These technicians perform a wide range of tasks, including preparing chemicals and solutions, operating processing equipment, monitoring film development, color correcting and printing images, and storing processed film.

The work carried out by the film laboratory technician demands an eye for detail, physical dexterity, the ability to adapt to the constantly evolving technology of film and photography, and the capacity to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

What does a Film Laboratory Technician do?

The overriding priority of the film laboratory technician is to produce high-quality images. These are the tasks they undertake to achieve that goal:

• Prepare chemicals and solutions for film processing, including mixing and measuring the correct amounts of developer, fixer, and other chemicals
• Operate and maintain equipment used for film processing, such as film developing machines, printing machines, and film drying equipment
• Monitor the processing of film to ensure that it is done correctly and to identify any defects or issues, such as scratches or light leaks
• Color correct and print images to produce high-quality prints
• Store the processed film and ensure that it is properly archived for future use
• Perform routine maintenance on the equipment and ensure that the laboratory is clean and safe
• Communicate with clients and other professionals to discuss the processing of their film and to address any issues that may arise

What is the workplace of a Film Laboratory Technician like?

Film laboratory technicians are employed by a variety of organizations and businesses that use film processing services, including:

• Commercial Photography Studios – Many commercial photography studios use film to produce images for clients, and may have their own film laboratory or outsource the processing to a specialized film processing facility.
• Post-Production Facilities for Film and Television Industry – Film and television production companies often use film processing services for their productions, and may have their own in-house film laboratory or use specialized film processing facilities.
• Specialized Film Processing Facilities – There are also specialized film processing facilities that provide film processing services for a variety of clients, including commercial photography studios, post-production facilities for the film and television industry, and individuals.
• Government Agencies and Military – Government agencies and military organizations may also use film processing services for their needs, and may have their own in-house film laboratory or outsource the processing to a specialized film processing facility.

Regardless of the setting, the typical film laboratory is a large well-lit space equipped with various pieces of equipment and supplies for film processing, including film developing machines, printing machines, film drying equipment, and a variety of chemicals and solutions.

The film laboratory technician’s work environment is fast-paced and deadline-driven, with often tight turnaround times. The job can be physically demanding, sometimes involving lifting of heavy equipment and supplies. The lab setting, in which chemicals must be handled, may require the use of protective gear, such as gloves and masks.