A scanner operator creates color print materials for employers using new technology. Scanner operators who use an electronic scanner to create positive or negative films for lithographic printing are among the most specialized. Other types of scanner operators may simply be responsible for using a traditional scanner machine to convert a traditional paper visual image into a digital visual file that can then be printed or transmitted electronically.
Scanner operators are frequently tasked with evaluating the quality of scanned materials. This includes assessing color density and paying close attention to tones, shadows, and other visual cues. Scanner operators, whether working with films or digital images, evaluate both light and color to provide a holistic result for visuals. They examine aspects of a photograph, such as exposure, to determine how to manage contrast for the final printed result. Scanner operators may consider physical fading or other attributes as part of the overall analysis in other types of visuals.
It’s possible that the job will require a lot of physical technology use. Film is frequently loaded into a film holder or chamber by a scanner operator. To fine-tune scanner operation, he or she can use a mouse, keyboard, or other controls. This individual may also be involved in the physical storage of film archives, which is a physically demanding job that necessitates a certain level of physical strength.
The scanner operator may also be in charge of manipulating physical printing equipment in addition to using an electronic scanner. High-quality printers can be sized to produce large items like banners or broadsheets in large scanning setups. Operators of scanners may need to be well-versed in the use of larger printers and other types of physical equipment.
The scanner operator, in general, will be involved in the finer aspects of visual production, as described above. Operators of scanners will be in charge of assessing minute visual details in images. They’ll frequently be involved in “digital archiving,” which entails scanning and processing documents before storing them for later use. In terms of overall management and distribution of digital or print materials, the scanner operator will provide valuable services to an employer in terms of both quality assurance and effective archiving; although these materials typically consist of photos, they may also include diagrams or simple text.