Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to undertake graphic arts camera work.

The skill is used in the industry but is becoming obsolete and should probably not be part of entry level training.

Application of the unit 

This unit requires the individual to prepare a camera and equipment to photograph a line image. It requires the individual to photograph a line image that meets design and production quality standards.

Prerequisite units 

Employability skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Prepare the camera

1.1. The camera is prepared to ensure the appropriate size and focus for the job

1.2. The correct exposure for line reproduction is established according to the manufacturer's specifications

2. Prepare and operate a processor

2.1. The processor is prepared to ensure correct chemical balance, temperature and maintenance

2.2. The processor is operated in line with established procedures

3. Operate a camera

3.1. Appropriate photographic material and processing chemical combination is selected for the line image

3.2. Line images are photographed using the correct camera settings

3.3. The quality  of the photographic output  is evaluated to ensure suitability for design purpose and final media or reproduction process

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit.

Required skills 

• OHS in relation to operating machinery such as safely switching off machinery before cleaning is started
• communication of ideas and information by interpreting the job brief
• collecting, analysing and organising information by matching requirements of the job brief with production requirements and constraints
• planning and organising activities by preparing and operating the processor
• teamwork when maintaining the production process in association with others
• mathematical ideas and techniques by calculating enlargement/reduction factors and exposures
• problem-solving skills by ensuring the correct balance of chemicals and temperature
• use of technology by using equipment correctly to ensure ease of subsequent processing

Required knowledge 

• effect of different printing processes on line images
• enlargement factor calculation
• base exposure data
• factors that cause base exposure to change
• correctly processed image
• factors that control the quality of output through the processor
• copy characteristics that require a change to base exposure
• relationship between magnification and exposure
• characteristics of a correctly exposed line negative
• image requirements for the various printing processes
• OHS concerns that are there when operating a processor?
• maintaining consistent output from the processor
• manuals, safety and other documentation that are relevant to this task and where are they kept and information that is included in these documents

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment 

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit 

Evidence of the ability to:

• evaluating the quality of the photographic output to ensure suitability for design purpose and final media or reproduction process
• the underlying skill of photographic images should be transferable across different camera designs and processing systems. It is important that the substrate for reproduction is identified and that the quality of the photographic image be suitable for the identified printing process
• demonstrate an ability to find and use information relevant to the task from a variety of information sources
• prepare, set up and use a graphic arts camera to photograph and process TWO different line originals according to the listed Performance Criteria.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Assessment must ensure:

• assessment may take place on the job, off the job or a combination of these. Off the job assessment must be undertaken in a closely simulated workplace environment
• mechanical and/or electronic equipment.

Method of assessment 

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

• direct questioning combined with review of portfolios of evidence and third party workplace reports of on-the-job performance by the candidate.

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended.

Guidance information for assessment 

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended.

RANGE STATEMENT 

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Quality standards  may include:

• should meet client requirements and enterprise and industry standards.

Output  may include:

• diffusion transfer, rapid access.

Input  may include:

• a variety of high contrast line artwork.

Capture  may include:

• a variety of graphic arts cameras.

Manipulation /edit  may include:

• spotting, mask cutting.

Unit sector 

Competency field 

Pre-press

Co-requisite units