Get Started with Dental Photography
YOUR GUIDE THROUGH THE CONFUSION
The Basic Kit for Dental Photography is:
Camera body
Macro lens
Ring Flash
Mirrors
Retractors
PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS BELOW
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What is the best camera body for dental photography?
If you are just starting out, I recommend getting an affordable DSLR camera. The two major brands are Nikon and Canon. With these two, there is a similar Coke vs. Pepsi war.
As you progress your photography skills, you can upgrade to a full-sensor camera and in that case, I would recommend the Canon or Sony mirrorless camera. For a basic camera that will get the job done, my recommendations are:
Canon DSLR recommendation is https://amzn.to/358bHR1
Nikon DSLR recommendation is https://amzn.to/3hl50NJ
Canon mirrorless recommendation is https://amzn.to/3JWeVFS
Not because I cheer for the stepchild but because the camera allows for focus peaking. Focus peaking is a feature that is underrated until the patient is dismissed and you sit to view the images on your computer to realize that the main area that you need to capture is blurry. Not much information on Sony cameras at this point for dental photography and light compatibility.
What lens do I need for dental photography?
For portrait (extraoral) shots, a nifty fifty aka 50mm works great! It allows you to be closer to the patient, the patient further away from the background (eliminate shadows), and prevents most distortion.
For intraoral photos, a macro lens is needed. Either an 85mm, 100mm (my personal favourite), or 110mm.
CANON
NIKON
What flash is best for dental photography?
I have a few so let me break it down. Affordable, beginner flash is this Canon ring flash and Nikon ring flash Level up your game with these twin flashes that should work on both Canon or Nikon The highest level of flashes are these adjustable twin flashes from Photomed but be ready to drop some serious cash! This is my recommendation for extraoral studio photo lighting
Accessories for lighting in dental photography.
Light diffusers/ softeners are a great way to get a clean professional image.
IF YOU'RE IN SCHOOL, THE FOLLOWING ACCESSORIES SHOULD BE PROVIDED BY THE SCHOOL BUT IF NOT, THESE ARE MY RECOMMENDATIONS.
Retractors:
You can get a camera setting guide for FREE here!
That's it!!
If you can find used items, that would help cut costs significantly, and ensure that different components will work together.
Now that you have everything that you need to start snapping some photos, do you know where to start with shot angles? Check out this video!