Digital imaging specialists scan, manipulate and correct digital images, retouching, altering and enhancing them.

The Work

You could be:

• agreeing the format and finish of the image with the client
• using a computer to scan images of prints, or transparencies or film negatives
• using specialist software such as Photoshop to make changes to photos
• changing photographs by resizing, cropping or correcting exposure and colour
• removing unwanted features or combining elements of different photographs
• designing the layout of images
• preparing the images for output as print or digital files
• regularly checking the accuracy of digital and printing equipment
• restoring old photographs digitally, such as removing creases or stains or adding colour.

Pay

The figures below are only a guide. Salaries may vary, depending on:

• where you work
• the size of company or organisation you work for
• the demand for the job.

Starting salaries for digital imaging specialists in the UK tend to be in the range of £14,000 to £18,000 a year. With more experience, salaries can rise to £20,000 to £25,000 a year. Skilled specialists can earn around £35,000 a year.

Conditions

• You would be based either in a studio or photo laboratory.
• You would normally work as part of a team of digital specialists or artworkers.
• You have to spend long periods sitting at a computer.
• Shift work is common.
• You may have to work overtime to meet deadlines.

Getting In

• For direct entry to employment, you do not always need formal qualifications. Some employers may prefer English, Maths and a science subject at National 4 or 5.
• Some may start out working as film processing or photographic technicians (see job profile Photographic Technician).
• Another route is to do a full time course in a subject such as photography or digital media. There are courses at a variety of levels – National Certificate (NC), National Qualification (NQ), Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND) and degree.
• For entry to an NC or NQ you may not need formal qualifications. Some colleges may ask for up to 4 subjects at National 4 or 5. HNCs or HNDs require 1-3 Highers or an NC or NQ. For degree courses you need a minimum of 3 Highers.
• You need a high level of skill in Photoshop.
• For design and layout work you need skills in desktop publishing software such as Illustrator and InDesign.

Job Outlook Scotland

Job Outlook Scotland and UK

  Scotland

2022

583

2.3 %

FALL

2027

570

  United Kingdom

2022

11008

1.3 %

FALL

2027

10870

LMI data powered by EMSI UK

What Does it Take?

You need to have:

• a strong interest in photography
• creative and artistic skills
• excellent IT skills
• an eye for detail, colour and layout
• the ability to accurately follow instructions
• practical skills to calibrate (set up) printing machines
• a careful, patient and methodical approach
• the ability to work under pressure.

Training

• Training is usually on the job.
• You might attend short courses run by equipment suppliers.

Getting On

• You might become a laboratory manager.
• You may be able to move into new product development.
• With experience you might set up your own business.

Contacts

The following organisations may be able to provide further information.