CUAPHI305
Use wet darkroom techniques to produce monochrome photographs


Application

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to apply a range of techniques to produce monochrome photographs suitable for display or reproduction.

It applies to individuals working in photo centres, specialised photo processing laboratories or photography studios. At this level, work may be undertaken independently or with supervision, depending on the work context.

No licensing, legislative or certification conditions apply to this unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Prepare work space for monochrome processing

1.1 Determine appropriate process for pre-exposed film in consultation with relevant personnel as required

1.2 Select work space that is equipped for processing film and developing black and white photographs

1.3 Check that all aspects of work space comply with work health and safety requirements and workplace procedures

1.4 Organise materials and equipment required for printing proof sheets, test prints and photographs

2. Prepare to produce monochrome photographs

2.1 Clarify concept for proposed photographs

2.2 Prepare materials and make proof sheets from black and white negatives

2.3 Evaluate proofs to identify images that match concept

2.4 Select suitable techniques for enhancement or manipulation

2.5 Cut and file film following standard workplace procedures

3. Produce final photographs

3.1 Experiment with ways of achieving best outcome by using a range of techniques on a selection of negatives

3.2 Use or combine different techniques, equipment and materials to test, review and extend capabilities

3.3 Seek feedback on work in progress from relevant personnel as required

3.4 Produce photographs consistent with concepts and of quality suitable for reproduction or display

3.5 Document work progress according to workplace procedures

4. Complete post-production activities

4.1 Clean and restore work environment to its original state and dispose of chemicals safely

4.2 Care for equipment according to manufacturer instructions

4.3 Report damage to equipment according to workplace procedures

4.4 Store equipment according to workplace procedures

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of the ability to:

organise darkroom work space for safe and efficient production of monochrome photographs

handle pre-exposed film correctly and make proof sheets from monochrome negatives

produce monochrome photographs that apply selected techniques consistent with concepts and are suitable for display or reproduction

check and store equipment according to workplace requirements.

Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.


Evidence of Knowledge

To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:

outline work space requirements for monochrome processing and printing techniques in a wet darkroom environment

describe the properties and capabilities of materials and equipment used to process and print monochrome photographs

describe various techniques for processing monochrome materials in a wet darkroom context and outline the different effects that can be achieved

summarise work health and safety procedures in relation to processing and printing monochrome work.


Assessment Conditions

Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in creative arts industry environments. The assessment environment must include access to:

wet darkroom equipment and environment

photographic printing materials, resources and equipment for monochrome processing and printing.

Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational educational and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.


Foundation Skills

This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.

Skill

Performance

Criteria

Description

Reading

1.3, 3.5, 4.2, 4.4

Interprets straightforward instructions and safety information from relevant sources to identify useful information and its application in the workplace

Writing

3.5, 4.3

Uses clear language and industry related terminology to document work progress and report equipment damage

Oral Communication

1.1, 2.1, 3.3

Participates in discussions with others to gather and provide relevant information

Uses questioning and active listening techniques to elicit feedback and confirm understanding

Navigate the world of work

1.3, 4.1, 4.3, 4.4

Understands the nature and purpose of own role and associated responsibilities to observe safety practices and follow workplace procedures

Interact with others

1.1, 2.1, 3.3

Follows accepted communication practices and procedures to clarify project requirements, discuss work progress, and seek and accept feedback

Get the work done

1.1, 1.2, 1.4, 2.2-2.5, 3.1, 3.2, 3.4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.4

Plans, organises and completes routine tasks

Makes decisions directly related to completion of required tasks

Uses experimental techniques and tests different combinations, reviewing their effectiveness and deciding on adjustments needed to meet conceptual and technical requirements


Sectors

Visual communication – photo imaging