Digital photography for the dermatologist

Abstract

Dermatology is a specialty reliant on presenting detailed and accurate visual observations. Digital photography is a highly prevalent and accessible technology that can be easily incorporated into a dermatology practice to facilitate documentation and communication of clinical findings. Dermatologists will benefit from being comfortable with digital photography and techniques to improve their photography skills. This review presents the fundamentals of photography and techniques helpful in capturing an adequate image. We explore the application of photography in the setting of microscopy, dermatopathology, dermatoscopy, and Wood's lamp. Lastly, new imaging technologies, such as multispectral and infrared imaging, are discussed.