The Basics for Exquisite Clinical and Portrait Photography

By Dr. Rhys Spoor, DDS, FAGD

Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

(Fig 1) The right photograph conveys a message that is easily understood by the viewer.

The visual appeal of a photograph is the link to the emotional side of the brain where we make our decisions of choice. It is here that needs become wants. A picture is worth a thousand veneers. Nothing speaks more profoundly to your prospective patient than a beautiful photograph that projects happiness, youth, vitality, sexiness and success (Figure 1). When that photograph connects to their inner psyche it can create a desire that drives them to act.

A great photograph is transparent, meaning that when you look at it all you so is the result and it touches your soul. The type of camera, media, lens, lighting, and processing are but a means to that end. The same is true for artistic cosmetic dentistry; the techniques and materials are transparent to the results. Put beautiful photography with beautiful dentistry and you have a key to successful case acceptance, plus it can make you and your patients just feel good (Figure 2).

The purpose of this article is to share the knowledge gained in increasing the fun and profitability of practicing aesthetic dentistry and increasing the quality of the results by using photography. The photograph can be used as a tool of communication with the laboratory, become an indispensable part of the documentation and record of the progress of a case and can be your best source of marketing your services to new clients (Figure 3). The photographs are really visual stories that have proved to be a very effective way to enter the emotional side of the brain where your patient makes decisions about whether to proceed with some type of treatment or not. We are in the business of enhancing lives and patients should at the very least have the choice.

Photographs carry a message to your patients that no amount of words can convey and it will become the centerpiece of your marketing, both internally and externally. The real power is that each one of the photos will have a story. The story is what allows the building of the emotional relationship that creates the bridge of trust that is critical to treatment acceptance.

(Fig 2) Beautiful dentistry showcased in a beautiful photograph(Porcelain veneers #7-`10).

(Fig 3) A photograph is indispensable for communication with the laboratory and in documentation.

Dr Rhys Spoor DDS Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry - Providing services in cosmetic and sleep dentistry to the area of Seattle, Washington.

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