As the task of taking pictures has been greatly simplified, the internal workings of even simple cameras have grown increasingly complex with electronic circuitry and precision mechanical parts. Cameras, especially those for 35 millimeter or larger film formats, are using electronic features such as sophisticated automatic light and flash metering, motor-driven film advances, electronic focusing, and automated aperture and shutter adjustments. Employed by independent repair shops, equipment manufacturers, or retailers, they dismantle cameras and clean, adjust, and repair all types of photographic equipment. In small shops, workers usually repair a variety of equipment. In larger shops and those located in a manufacturing facility work may be more specialized according to the type and make of equipment to be serviced.
Technicians first determine the nature and extent of damage to the equipment.
This involves reviewing the service work order which contains a description of the apparent problem, performing an inspection to identify the specific damage, and taking the item apart to look for broken or damaged parts. After repairs have been made, the equipment is reassembled, synchronized, adjusted, and tested to meet manufacturer specifications. Repair tools include small hand tools such as jewelers' screw drivers, files, wrenches, soldering instruments, microscopes and micrometers, precision testing instruments and gauges. Testing instruments such as digital voltmeters, optical measuring devices, electronic timers and mechanical testing devices are used by technicians in checking cameras of all types. Many shops will also repair and service movie and slide projectors, video cameras, electronic flash units, and other types of photographic and audiovisual equipment.