Documenting your patient with photography in office practice

The basic requirements for the proper photographic documentation of the foot is a single lens reflex camera, electronic flash unit, and a closeup lens set. Preoperative photographs should be a routine part of the patient workup prior to any treatment or corrective surgery. Clinical photographs should be taken with the patient standing on a plain background and should include the front, side, and back views. The electronic flash unit gives a consistent light and is well balanced with daylight color film. Surgical photographs are best taken with a telephoto macro lens or a telephoto lens with a closeup attachment. An electronic flash unit provides a consistent light. The flash unit is utilized with the AC adapter in order to give a rapid recycling and a consistent light output. Any pathological specimen should be photographed immediately following the case. Excellent specimen photographs can be taken with the use of the electronic flash held at a 30 degree angle and a sheet of white paper on the opposite of the specimen to act as a reflector. The most important aspect of the photography is to standardize the procedures so that consistent results may be obtained.