An imaging and punching system and related method for a plate imaging system that can record an image on recordable media and punch the imaged media. The imaging and punching system includes a punching apparatus that is a part of the imaging and punching system that can precisely punch an imaged plate in a punch area. The system also includes a transfer assembly, including the imaged media support, having a pivot for moving the imaged media from the imaging system to the punching system. The pivot having a fixed relationship to said imaging system and said punching system and movable about the pivot between a first position proximate the imaging system and a second position proximate the punching system.