Higher quality photos increase your dermatologist’s ability to provide useful information for your concern. If the photos are poor-quality, the dermatologist may be limited in their ability to diagnose or offer treatment for your concerns.
- Photos should be taken in a well-lit area, natural lighting is best.
- Hide “distractions.” Remove jewelry, clothing covering the affected area, busy wallpaper (best to stand against a single toned surface), etc.
- Open the camera app and hold steady with both hands.
- Focus your photos by touching your phone screen directly on the spot you are concerned about. On most camera apps, you can pinch your fingers together to zoom in if necessary. Retake the picture if it’s blurry…
- Orient the camera parallel to your skin; do not angle up or down.
- If you are unable to take the photos due to location of the spot or other difficulties, please ask a trusted family member or friend to help.
- Take photos from more than one view point.
- Take a photo from far away (so the dermatologist can see where on the body it is) and at least one close up in focus.
- Save the photos in a folder or area where they are easy to access/share.