Combine Photography And Science To Become A Biological Photographer!

There are several scopes of photography. When we think about the variety of photographers, our minds typically gravitate to high fashion photographers, creative landscape photographers, or modern still-life photographers, but there are still other types of photographers like that of the biological photographer whose photos are very important to the scientific world. Unlike the glamorous photographers of the high fashion world, careers opportunities for biological photographers are available and growing.

Using photographic and digital technology, biological photographers produce photographs, prints, slides, video, etc of medical and biological events and subjects to illustrate books and magazines as well as for use in teaching and diagnosis in the biological, medical, and health science fields.

Biological photographers of old used to take photos of what they saw using a microscope. Today, these professionals use much more advanced techniques and are skilled to use state-of-the art photography equipment including electron microscopes, high-speed cinematography, and slow-motion/stop-motion photography to capture life images.

Duties are not just regulated to producing photomicrographs. Biological photographers also photograph operating room procedures and are involved in television production. They assist doctors in determining cause of death by filming surgical or autopsy procedures. These recorded images are oftentimes instrumental in helping to solve a crime. Other captured images can be used to help diagnose ailments of individual patients.

Shooting medical and biological images require the biological photographer to be skilled in two areas: science and photography. One must have a basic understanding and interest in the biological and medical sciences as well as a thorough knowledge of photography. This profession gives an individual a unique opportunity to professionally contribute to creative world of photography while benefiting the medical and science fields.

Because of the complexities of today's technology, biological photographers must have skills to work with photographic equipment as well as medical and scientific instruments such as microscopes and computers They must also have a general background in the sciences and a healthy understanding of medical practices and surgical procedures. In addition, they must have knowledge of human, animal, and plant anatomy and physiology.

The field of bio photography has grown from a supporting field to an integral part of the medical and science profession. Career opportunities are available in hospitals as well as throughout the academic field, including medical, dental, eye, and veterinary schools. Biological photographers are also needed in the government sector and business industry, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture and pharmaceutical companies and publishing houses. The demand for them is high because there are so few in the field. The average annual salary such a job is between $30,000 and $40,000.