In the previous video on extraoral images, I showed you how to take shots like the extraoral full smile, extraoral full repose, extraoral profile right, and the extraoral full retracted images. I had the subject standing against a neutral background, and that’s one way to do it and it works. However, in this video, I want to show you how to elevate those four images to the next level.
I’ve set up the Newer Light Boxes behind me. These are the Newer IN-300W professional photo system, consisting of three light boxes that plug into outlets. Attached to each light box is the Newer RTR-16 wireless studio flash trigger. Behind the subject, I position one light box, and the other two are placed to the right and left of the subject at around 45-degree angles. The height of the boxes is adjusted to match the patient’s height. I turn on the light boxes and wireless flash trigger.
The light box behind the patient is set to a power of 15, and the boxes in front are set to a power of 25. On my camera, I adjust the f-stop to 11 or 13 and set the shutter speed to 1/125. ISO is set to the lowest setting of 100. I position myself in front of the patient at the same level as their head.
You can take these photos in any order you like. Minimal head movement is important when transitioning between the smile and retracted shots.
Once I’m done with these four images, I move the patient back to the dental chair to complete the extraoral image series.
I purchased these light boxes after shooting the previous extraoral images video. They take up space, so finding a suitable area is crucial. I set them up in an empty operatory, but ideally, a dedicated photo studio would be best.
I love these images – the focus, sharpness, and lighting are perfect to me. These light boxes have multiple applications in dentistry. I also use them for product shots and creative dental photography.
Consider checking out these light boxes – they’re affordable and make a huge difference in your practice if you’re regularly taking photographs. They’re a great investment. Feel free to let me know if you’d like a video on creative dental photography with these light boxes.
