Photo Tips
Our objective is not to turn you into a professional photographer but merely to point out some of the things to look for and avoid when you take pictures for your Perfect Patients website.
As you take pictures of your office and staff, try to imagine what the images will communicate to someone who has never been to your office.
Always have anyone (that means spouses, patients and staff) who is depicted in your photos sign a formal model release. Click here to download some sample text for printing on your letterhead.
Where is Everybody?
It’s tempting to take your pictures during non-patient hours. Yet, you’re not taking a spread for Architectural Digest magazine! You want to project the image of a busy, successful office that people like coming to. A prospective patient wants to see that lots of people visit your office. Keep in the mind the adage, “everybody-goes-there-because-everybody-goes-there.”
Avoid Amputation
Be careful about cropping images in your camera. While we may choose to crop off the top of heads to add intensity or drama, it’s helpful to have a choice. When showing X-rays, consider using a tripod and turning off the camera’s built-in flash. This can give your X-rays greater impact and add variety to your images.
Do Something
Filmmakers call it “doing some business.” Handing over a piece of paper. Pointing to an area of an X-ray. Touching the part that hurts. That sort of thing. You want to avoid the appearance of your pictures appearing posed and stiff. Instead, the photographer has captured a candid shot of what happens in your office. Obviously, when “doing business” no one looks at the camera, unlike when shooting a portrait with just one person in the shot.
Heads Up!
When shooting pictures of two people, be aware of the spacing between their heads. Too far apart and the picture lacks energy and the background becomes the focal point. Instead, try shooting over one shoulder or the other, effectively bringing the heads together. (Note the facial distortion caused by the shadow on the wall from the built-in flash!)
Watch the Background
Make sure you don’t have plants growing out of patient’s heads or harsh reflections bouncing off some shiny background object. Be especially careful when shooting pictures at the front desk. Avoid the cluttered look that plagues many busy front desks. You want to project the image that your office is buttoned down and organized.
Smiles Everyone
Most first-time patients are afraid of getting adjusted. Especially cervical adjustments. If you show patients getting adjusted, and the face can be seen, it’s essential that they’re smiling or at least appearing to enjoy the experience!
Shooting Exteriors
Supplying a photo of the exterior of your building or sign can help a new patient find your office. It’s usually best to shoot exteriors toward the beginning or end of the day. Mid-day sun tends to be flat and lack contrast. Shoot at an angle rather than straight on and avoid showing an empty parking lot in the foreground. That may mean taking the picture from the top of a stepladder or something tall and shooting down on to your building.
Summary
Pictures are easy to change later on. And we’re happy to do that at no charge as part of your Perfect Patients service. If you don’t have easy access to a camera, or don’t trust your photography skills, see if you have a patient who can help out. Or, it may be worth hiring the talents of a professional photographer. Those who have, are glad they did.
Either way, by following these simple guidelines you can avoid the most common mistakes and project an attractive, compelling representation of your practice.
