Taking a clinical photo

For most dermatology referrals, including a photo is the single most important item of information to allow diagnosis and triage.

Modern phone cameras can take excellent quality photographs but there are a few tips to produce the best result.

Take at least 2 photographs:

• An orientation photo from a metre or so away to clearly show where the lesion is on the body. For rashes try to include the full extent.
• A close-up photo, ideally including a ruler or coin for scale. Don't go too close or the camera will not focus.
• A sideways on photo if the lesion is raised.
• A dermoscope photo if you have access to that is ideal but make sure to include the standard photos too.

Only send the best 2 (or 3) photos.

Ensure the area in question is clearly in focus before the patient leaves. Most cameras will allow you to choose a focus point by tapping on the relevant part of the screen. Particularly for face and scalp the camera will focus on the eye, nose or hair left to its own devices.

Ensure good lighting - daylight is best if possible.

For limbs get the patient to rest it on the floor/desk to keep steady. For close up photos it can be useful to brace the camera with your pinkie against the patient.

The file size for attachments is limited. Photos around 500k to 1Mb should have adequate resolution.