Why do we take photographs?

Record keeping is important in the permanent cosmetic enhancement industry as photographic records are an essential part of the record keeping process.  You may also wish to create a portfolio of your work, this is an ideal way to promote your business.  It is also an opportunity to show them how they will loo immediately post procedure and demonstrate the healing process and the necessity for a control appointment.

Insurance companies may also want you to take photographs of your clients to as a requirement of their policy.  In an ideal world all your clients would walk out your door after their last appointment completely satisfied with the procedures you have undertaken.  Unfortunately, it is now becoming fashionable to take legal action against anyone for any reason whatsoever, as an example McDonalds were sued for serving coffee that was deemed too hot by a customer, thus it is advisable to cover yourself by any means possible.

Pre procedure photographs will show any marks, blemishes or other abnormalities prior to you commencing the procedure therefore absolving you from responsibility should the client attempt to apportion blame to you in the future.  Once the client has approved you to take photographs, take further pictures of the temporary markings that you have used as a template for the enhancement.  This will help if the client states “I didn’t really want it like that” after the procedure.  Then take photographs again upon completion of the procedure and again, ask the client to agree that the location and shape is still as requested even though the area is swollen.

Digital or print film:

With digital cameras such as those on an iPad or smart phone, you can download the images straight to your computer and print them off immediately.  Film cameras require developing via a third party, there are obvious advantages and disadvantages to both, the loss of a device and photos not being backed up or film being misplaced in the post or at the photographic studio.  Whichever works best for you is fine if you are thorough in your methods.

Light is the medium used to transform the image seen through the lens into a photograph, the best kind of light you can use is natural daylight.  Shadows can spoil your photographs so look at your subject.  Sitting a subject with their side to a window will make on side of the face appear darker than the other or if the light is from above give shadows under the nose, chin and in the eye sockets.  Facing a window may make your subject squint or possibly be affected by the photographs shadow.  Try not to take shots near mirrors or wall tiles as they are reflective.

Using zoom on your photograph is an ideal way to avoid distortion. If you’re too close the subject’s face will be exaggerated, with a large nose and deep eyes.  If you back away but use the zoom to increase the size of the subject in the frame this will make the shape appear more natural.  Be aware that as you back away from the subject the intensity of the flash becomes diluted and eventually useless.

A backdrop with your branding can be a nice touch to your photographs.  Many design companies offer a service where they can create branded roller banners for around £50-£60 each.  These can also be used on social media for marketing your brand, work and business.