Standardized patient photo checklist
A before and after comparison is only honest when both photos were taken under the same conditions. If the light, distance, phone height or expression changed, the result looks different from what it really is. Standardizing the photo protects the patient from a wrong expectation and the professional from an unnecessary dispute.
The checklist below is a starting point for organizing the routine. The final angles and protocol are the clinic's decision.
What must be the same in every photo?
- Distance from the camera to the patient.
- Height of the camera, at eye level.
- Light, preferably diffuse and from the front, without strong shadows.
- Background, plain and neutral.
- Expression, at rest, mouth relaxed and eyes looking forward.
- Patient preparation, no makeup, no accessories and hair pulled back.
The article on standardized clinical photography goes deeper into each point. To use Harmy, the frontal photo must meet these same criteria, and the app calculates the face contours on the device itself.
Most commonly used angles
| Angle | What it is usually for |
|---|---|
| Frontal | Symmetry, proportions and overall comparison |
| Right and left profile | Projection of the chin, nose and contour |
| Oblique (three-quarter) | Cheekbone volume and jawline |
| Frontal with smile | Muscle and smile dynamics, when relevant |
Harmy's projection uses only the frontal photo. If the clinic needs other angles, they remain outside the app, in the clinical record.
Light and skin considerations
Skin color changes with the light. If the color of the room varies between sessions, the tone seems to change without having changed. Keep the same place and the same time of day, when possible. Taking the skin phototype into account helps adjust exposure so the skin is neither blown out nor too dark.
Standardized photo checklist template
Frequently asked questions
How do I take standardized before and after photos in harmonization?
Always keep the same distance, camera height, light, background and expression. Photograph the patient without makeup or accessories, with hair pulled back from the face, and repeat the same conditions in follow-up photos.
How many angles should I photograph?
It depends on the clinic's protocol. Many professionals take frontal, profile and oblique views. Harmy uses only the frontal photo for the projection, but that does not limit the clinic's own clinical records.
Can I use flash for clinical photos?
It is generally best to avoid it, because it flattens volumes and creates glare. Prefer diffuse, constant light, the same in every session.
Do I need authorization to photograph the patient?
Yes. A clinical photo is sensitive data and requires specific consent, separate from authorization for publicity, as required by the LGPD and the rules of your professional council in Brazil.