This unit requires the individual to prepare the copy and equipment to photograph halftone images. The halftone image is evaluated to ensure it meets design and production quality standards.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Evaluate copy

1.1. Copy is scaled and gradation aim points are selected to produce the required output

1.2. Screen rulings, angles, tone gradation, dot percentages, and dot shapes are selected according to job specifications

1.3. Rescreens and mono conversions from colour originals are evaluated for reproduction requirements

2. Prepare for exposure

2.1. The camera is cleaned and prepared and lights are set to deliver an even distribution of light

2.2. Exposure program is set according to stock and print conditions

2.3. Densities are measured on the copy according to evaluation

2.4. Exposure programs for special effects and duotones are calculated to deliver job requirements

3. Process and evaluate image

3.1. The processor is checked and maintained within tolerances

3.2. Film is processed according to job specifications

3.3. The image is checked for size, gradation, cleanliness and dot percentages according to job specifications

4. Solve technical photographic problems

4.1. Technical problems relevant to tone and reproduction of photographic images are resolved by reassessing the elements for photography, camera operations or amendment of the brief in consultation with the client

4.2. Images are photographed with the potential to be reproduced in conformance to specifications of the brief

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 implicit and explicit requirements of the job brief

collecting, analysing and organising information by matching production requirements and constraints with requirements of the job brief

planning and organising activities by ensuring all necessary materials are delivered in correct format

teamwork when maintaining the production process in association with others

mathematical ideas and techniques by calculating enlargement/reduction factors, exposures and grey scales

problem-solving skills by adjusting exposure and grey scales so that output matches requirements of the job brief

use of technology by using equipment correctly to ensure ease of subsequent processing

Required knowledge

halftone images varied to suit different printing processes

main characteristics of a halftone image

factors that would influence selection of highlight and shadow points (first and last printing tones)

overcoming the problem associated with the reproduction of screened copy

method of calibrating the densitometer and copy measurement

factors that influence basic exposure data

preparing a basic exposure program

applying exposure data to selected copy

factors that could cause a change of exposure

using a grey scale to assist in exposure control

criteria for evaluation of the halftone image

effect a change to processing conditions may have on the final result

image requirements for the various printing processes

criteria for evaluation of a duotone

manuals, safety and other documentation that are relevant to this task and where are they kept

information that is included in these documents

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:

special effects and duotones meet job specifications. The image size, gradation, cleanliness and dot percentages meet technical specifications. Photographed images are suitable for final media reproductions

the underlying skill of photographing images should be transferable across the design and pre-press sectors. It is important that the substrate for reproduction is identified and that the quality of the photographed image be suitable for the identified printing processes

demonstrate an ability to find and use information relevant to the task from a variety of information sources

use a graphic arts camera to photograph and process at least THREE continuous tone originals with different contrast characteristics 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

camera and other equipment required to produce a halftone image.

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.

Guidance information for assessment

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

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.

Aim points may include:

highlights

shadows

midtones.

Output may include:

diffusion transfer, rapid access.

Camera processtype may include:

vertical

horizontal.

Input may include:

a variety of continuous tone originals.

Capture may include:

a variety of graphic arts cameras.

Manipulation/edit may include:

masking to crop or deep etch, drop highlights out.

Quality standard may include:

must meet client and industry requirements.

Unit sector

Pre-press

This unit contains employability skills.