Entry requirements, skills and interests (clinical photography)

You'll need a degree in photography to enter training.

Entry requirements

To qualify as a clinical photographer you’ll need a degree in photography and a postgraduate certificate in clinical photography. If you have a degree in photography, you can apply for a post as a trainee clinical photographer. Once in a trainee position with the NHS you can undertake a postgraduate course in clinical photography to become qualified.

Find out more about the training you’ll receive and registration for a career in clinical photography.

Skills required

You'll need a variety of skills including:

  • an understanding of anatomy
  • technical expertise in photography 
  • good knowledge of photographic software
  • be computer literate
  • good written and verbal communication skills
  • the ability to accept high levels of responsibility
  • an understanding of consent and data protection
  • a sympathetic and professional attitude when dealing with patients and family or carers who may feel especially vulnerable
  • team working skills

You may need to use particular skills creatively (such as lighting or composition) to depict some conditions effectively.

If you work in a role with responsibility for resources (such as staff, budgets or equipment) you must have good leadership skills and be able to use your initiative within the remit of your job role

If you're applying for a healthcare science role or training position either directly in the NHS or in an organisation that provides NHS services you'll be asked to show how you think the NHS values apply in your everyday work.

The NHS values form a key part of the NHS Constitution.

Find out more about the NHS Constitution.

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