Tech Tip: Common photo mistakes

We know that taking quality intraoral photos can sometimes be difficult, so we recently published an article with information and tips for taking clinical photos. This is a follow up to that article with some examples of common photo mistakes to be aware of when taking clinical photos and submitting your cases. 

Common photo mistakes

	This front view doesn't demonstrate the bite relationship, because the mouth is open andthe teeth aren't touching. We need to be able to see how the teeth are fitting together.
	This lower occlusal view shows too much of the facial surfaces of the teeth, and not enough of the occlusal surfaces. It's also blurry and over-exposed.  One option is to use a smaller F-stop if the camera has this capability. Zooming out is also a possibility, but with that there will be a general loss of resolution and it is hard to hold the camera steady while zoomed in, so with this option there may be some blurring due to slight movement.
	This front view is washed out and unusable, because the camera was too close to the mouth when the flash went off. Step back and zoom in to correct this problem.
	The angle of this profile photo is too far behind the patient and too high, making the shape of the jaw difficult to see. The camera lens should be level and parallel to the side of the patient's face. (This patient's eyes have been obscured to protect his privacy.)
	The angle of this right lateral view is too far forward. We need to be able to see the full buccal surfaces of both six-year molars to accurately determine the molar relationship.
	This occlusal view is off-center, and doesn't show enough of the molars. Most patients won't be able to open their mouths widely enough to take good photos unassisted. We recommend using an intraoral mirror and retractors.