Photoengraver and Lithographer
Photoengravers and lithographers are professionals in the printing and graphic arts industries, playing a crucial role in the production of printed materials. Lithographers primarily create metal plates that transfer images from photographs or digital documents onto rubber sheets for printing on various surfaces, a process often referred to as offset printing. Photoengravers, on the other hand, focus on producing engravings of images or text on metal or acrylic plates, which can also be used in printing and printmaking.
Both occupations have historical significance but are adapting to changes brought about by digital technology. They typically work in clean, organized environments, often requiring long hours and strong attention to detail. Skills in communication, problem-solving, and a keen artistic sense are essential for success in these fields. Job seekers usually benefit from a high school diploma, and further education, such as an associate's degree or specific training in graphic arts, can enhance employment opportunities. Despite the decline in employment outlook for these roles, they remain integral to both commercial and artistic printing processes, including the creation of fine art and decorative printed items.
Photoengraver and Lithographer
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Arts, A/V Technology & Communications, Manufacturing
Interests: Fine art, design, graphic arts, digital publishing, printing, photography
Earnings (Yearly Median): $35,620 annual
Employment & Outlook: -13% (Decline)
Overview
Sphere of Work. Photoengravers and lithographers work in the printing and graphic arts industries. Lithographers use photographs or digital documents to create metal plates that transfer ink onto rubber printing sheets, which are used to print on paper or fabric. Lithography is also sometimes known as offset printing. Photoengravers produce metal or acrylic engravings of photos or text, also used for printing or printmaking. Both photoengraving and lithography can also print circuitry diagrams for electronics projects, thus making both occupations part of the more significant computer-electronics industry.
Work Environment. Lithographers and photoengravers typically work in printing offices, using a computer desk and a number of larger worktables to complete their work. Because lithography and photoengraving prints are sensitive to dust and debris, workshops for these types of activities must be clean and relatively contained. Lithographers and photoengravers may stand for long hours while working on various projects, though the work is not typically physically strenuous.
Photoengravers may work closely with editors, print designers, and writers to coordinate projects for printing. In some cases, photoengravers and lithographers may work contractually, handling projects from home or a private office. Depending on who their clients are, some printing companies experience seasonal shifts in workload and may need to employ workers for longer hours during peak periods.
Occupation Interest. Photoengraving and lithography are a part of the historical process of printing and publishing that has been greatly altered by the introduction of digital photo and printing processes. Those pursuing a career in photoengraving or lithography tend to have a strong interest in fine art, design, and publishing or printing. Photoengraving and lithography are also utilized to create fine art and craft arts, thus blurring the lines between commercial print production and artistry. Because photoengraving and lithography are exacting disciplines, professionals must possess strong attention to detail and be highly motivated, as certain projects may require extra hours and overtime work to complete within strict deadlines. Communication, good judgment, and problem-solving abilities are also helpful in the creative process.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Photoengravers and lithographers begin working by using a photograph or digital print of the image or text that is to be printed. In modern printing offices, the processes traditionally assigned to photoengravers and lithographers may be completed digitally. For this reason, some photoengravers and lithographers may work entirely on a computer, using software programs to edit and alter images for printing.
In traditional techniques, lithographers and photoengravers work directly from photographs or photographic negatives. Using a variety of hand tools and chemical dyes, lithographers first improve the quality of the negatives. Next, the photo negatives are positioned along metal plates, and high-intensity light and color-sensitive chemicals are used to transfer the image onto the plate. The image is then transferred to a rubber sheet, which is finally used to transfer the text and images onto paper.
Similarly, photoengravers use hand tools, acid etching compounds, and other chemicals to engrave images and text into metal plates that can be used for printing. In addition to printing for publishing, photoengraving can be used to create circuit boards and to etch photo images into metal, the latter of which is useful for making identification tags for pets, metal plates for awards, and other personalized items.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Lithographers and photoengravers work in a variety of environments, from small, private offices and studios to larger photography studios and printing-press buildings. Typically, these environments contain a variety of specialized equipment, along with workbenches, tables, and a variety of computers and other digital aids. The presence of large equipment and chemicals presents the possibility of injury.
Human Environment. Photoengravers and lithographers work closely with editors, designers, photographers, and apprentices to complete their work. Many printing and photography professionals also work with ancillary staff members who handle office management, reception, and marketing.
Technological Environment. Various digital design, publishing, and photography programs are regularly used in the photoengraving and lithography processes. Professional scanning, image manipulation, and digital photo-alteration technology have replaced traditional chemical and hand-operated processes in many modern printing and photography businesses. Photoengravers and lithographers also work with printing plates, various kinds of presses, cameras, scanners, and blueprints or other technical drawings.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. Professional positions in lithography or photoengraving typically require a high school education or the equivalent. High school courses in communications, design, drafting, drawing, and photography can be helpful for those looking to get into the field. In addition, chemistry courses can help familiarize potential professionals with the chemical agents used in various processes. High school students can also look for local and national programs and scholarships aimed at helping young people get involved in the graphic arts.
Postsecondary. An associate’s degree or postsecondary technical award is commonly required for employment as a prepress worker. Community colleges and technical institutes sometimes offer courses in photoengraving and lithography as part of a photography or design program. Printing technology programs at technical institutes can also introduce students to the manual and digital techniques used in photoengraving and lithography.
Many four-year colleges and universities offer courses in photography, printing, and drafting that can be helpful for those seeking jobs in the field. Though not generally required, a bachelor’s degree in a related subject, such as graphic design, may give potential job seekers an advantage in employment.
Related Occupations
Bibliography
“Data for Occupations Not Covered in Detail: Printing Press Operators.” Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 24 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/about/data-for-occupations-not-covered-in-detail.htm#Production%20occupations. Accessed 23 Aug. 2024.
“Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023: 51-5112 Printing Press Operators.” Occupational Employment Statistics. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 3 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes515112.htm. Accessed 23 Aug. 2024.