Short is recognized as an influential teacher and master of intaglio processes who revived the use of mezzotint and aquatint, both tonal techniques. The discipline he required of his students as head of engraving at the Royal College of Art was largely responsible for the technical excellence of British etching during the 1910s through the 1940s. Short frequently depicted peaceful, far-reaching, level landscapes, or seascapes with few humans. With an economy of means, he achieved beautiful, atmospheric results.