If the customer desires, the technician mounts the finished print in a frame or on a paper or cardboard back. Some darkroom technicians specialize in one aspect of photographic processing work. For example, airbrush artists restore damaged and faded photographs. They also color drawings to simulate photographs. Photographic retouchers alter photographic negatives and prints to accentuate the desired features of subject or remove undesirable ones.
Colorists apply oil colors to portrait photographs to create a natural, lifelike appearance.
Photographic spotters cover or spot out imperfections on photographic prints using a gloved finger, brush, or pencil. Color laboratory technicians produce color prints, negatives, and slides by hand. In addition to working in the laboratory, darkroom technicians may set up lights and cameras or otherwise assist experienced photographers. Many technicians, particularly those in portrait studios who aspire to become professional photographers, divide their time between taking and processing pictures. In some labs, helpers assist technicians.