A biological photographer takes photos and films for the health and natural science professions, documenting organisms and medical events. They must have a thorough understanding of photography and biology, and may specialize in fields such as ophthalmic photography or photomicrography. Creativity and communication skills are important, and the field is growing with opportunities for work and advancement.
A biological photographer is a person who takes and produces photographs and films for people in the health and natural science professions and for the general public. The photos she generates are often used to educate others on the profession, in a patient’s medical records, in research, and as an illustrative example in medical handbooks. In general, a biological photographer documents organisms that are alive or were once alive. She must also have a thorough understanding of photography, photographic equipment and the biological sciences.
The work that a biological photographer does is quite extensive. For example, a photo can be used to record a medical event, such as the absence of an organ, the presence of a tumor, the extent of a medical condition, or the progress a patient with a medical condition may be making. If the biophotography equipment is sterile, a patient’s entire surgery can be photographed or videotaped. Also, if a tissue sample is taken, a picture can be taken under the microscope using technical photography equipment.
As doctors, students, researchers and patients want to visually see what is happening, biophotography is very popular. Sometimes a biological photographer uses a highly technical computer or software program to process and manipulate the photos. This allows people to better see the specific item of concern. For example, a photo can be enlarged and clarified to become the perfect teaching device or for a patient to compare the size of a tumor over several months.
There are several other names for a biological photographer. These include medical photographer, biophotographer and scientific photographer. Under either name, it is possible to specialize in a field of interest. For example, for those who are intrigued by the conditions of the eye, there are opportunities for ophthalmic photography. If tissue samples pique your interest, there are careers that focus solely on photomicrography or pictures taken through the lens of a microscope. Plastic and oral surgeons also regularly use biological photographers.
A biological photographer must be creative in the way they take pictures. In some cases, the normal way of photographing a medical condition may not work. Consequently, the photographer will need to figure out a new way to take the picture. Also, people skills and good communication skills are always a plus. A photographer will need to be able to explain what they are doing to medical personnel so that both the patient and the photographer are safe.
For those wanting to become a bio photographer, the field is booming. Once a photographer establishes himself as a biological photographer, there are countless opportunities for work and advancement. Depending on whether she works at a hospital, university, museum, library or other organization, the salary can vary greatly.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
