ICPPRP323
Photograph and produce halftone images


Application

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to undertake advanced graphic arts camera work and evaluate output to ensure it meets design and production quality standards

It applies to skilled individuals working as pre-press tradespeople in the printing and graphic arts industry who design and prepare layouts and artwork, manipulate images and text, and apply solutions to a defined range of problems. They may also provide some leadership and guidance to others with some limited responsibility for the output of others.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements 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 Evaluate copy

1.1 Copy is scaled and gradation aim points selected to produce 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 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 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 Processor is checked and maintained within tolerances

3.2 Film is processed according to job specifications

3.3 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 elements for photography, camera operations or brief amendment in consultation with client

4.2 Images are photographed with potential to be reproduced according to the brief

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of the ability to:

correctly use a graphic arts camera to photograph and process at least THREE continuous tone originals with different contrast characteristics according to the specific job 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:

describe how halftone images are varied to suit different printing processes

describe main characteristics of a halftone image and factors that influence selection of highlight and shadow points (first and last printing tones)

outline process of overcoming problems associated with reproduction of screened copy

describe method of calibrating densitometer and copy measurement

outline preparation of a basic exposure program and factors that influence basic exposure data

describe process for applying exposure data to selected copy and factors that could cause a change of exposure, including use of a grey scale to assist in exposure control

outline criteria for evaluation of a halftone image and affect a change to processing conditions may have on the final result

describe image requirements for various printing processes

outline evaluation criteria for a duotone

identify manuals, safety and other documentation relevant to this task, where are they kept and information included in these documents.


Assessment Conditions

Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the Pre-Press field of work and include access to a graphic arts camera, special purpose tools, equipment and material.

Assessors must satisfy NVR/AQTF assessor requirements.


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

1.2, 3.2, 3.3, 4.1, 4.2

Recognises and interprets text to establish job requirements from information contained within relevant procedures and specifications

Oral Communication

4.1

Participates effectively in spoken interactions using vocabulary relevant to role and context

Numeracy

2.2-2.4

Interprets and analyses a range of mathematical information used in familiar and routine tasks

Interact with others

4.1

Uses appropriate communication protocols and conventions to confirm or clarify client requirements

Get the work done

1.1-1.3, 2.1-2.4, 3.1, 3.3, 4.1, 4.2

Takes responsibility for planning and organising own workload and assembles required resources

Recognises and takes responsibility for addressing predictable, and some less predictable, problems in familiar work contexts

Understands purposes, specific functions and key features of common digital systems and tools and operates them effectively to prepare and save files in required format


Sectors

Pre-Press