About Medical Photographers
Medical photography is a less often mentioned career that proves to be a very important one within the medical community. We generally see the work of medical photographers in medical pamphlets, science textbooks and perhaps in images on medical television shows. Images may also be used in scientific reports and journals and as a means of study among those in various healthcare professions. This style of art shows the human body in its most vulnerable form, as photographers capture internal and external images of the body, injuries, diseases and medical procedures.
Significance
Medical photographers not only need to be excellent at their craft, they also need to have a great deal of knowledge and understanding in science and medicine. Whether working in a hospital, clinical or forensic setting, a successful medical photographer will be able to produce images sufficient for study as well as use in medical articles and publications.
Features
Disciplines within medical illustration include clinical photography, medical art, graphic design and healthcare photos and videography. In addition to just taking pictures, medical photographers may also use technology, including photomicrography, computers and design software, in producing their images.
Function
Medical photographers may take photos of patients to help diagnose, track and record treatments. Some may take pictures or video of operations, which can be used for later medical instruction. Photomicrography may be used to show microscopic images in greater detail.
Considerations
Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) suggests that high school students interested in pursuing a career in medical photography should take classes in art, biology, chemistry, algebra, photography, drawing and design, English, history, graphic arts, printing, health occupations/medical professions education and computer illustration. Most often a bachelor's degree and extensive experience in photography is also required before pursuing medical photography as a career.
Considerations
Individuals may become certified in medical photography through the BioCommunications Association, which describes its organization as an international professional association of people working in the biological communications field. In order to become certified, one must successfully complete a written exam, a practical exam and a demonstration of competency.
Benefits
According to CBsalary.com, the U.S. National Average Salary for medical photography is $28,319, with a salary range of $23,400 to $39,339. However, the average salary for ophthalmic photographer is listed as $41,279. The average for scientific and biomedical photographers is $39,588. Some medical photographers also work on a freelance basis.
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