When a local business hires my husband for brand strategy, they usually appreciate easy access to my photography services. Over the years, this has given us plenty of opportunities to work together. It’s such a blessing – especially when our kids are involved! Back in 2020, we had the privilege of taking pictures for a local pediatric dentistry chain. They needed a dental photographer to capture all 5 of their locations.
At first, it was kind of overwhelming. But once we were able to secure a shot list and confirm the schedule, it was a lot of fun! After visiting every location, we finally got to meet the entire staff (and some of their children) for action shots and team pictures! Here are some of the main things we focused on as their dental photographer.
1. Consistent Profile Pictures.
One of the best things you can do as a pediatric specialist is showcase your leadership and staff. When website pictures are accurate and look professional, it’s easier for parents to trust your practice. It may sound silly, but a lot of thought goes into medical decisions.
Like most dentist offices, this client’s building didn’t offer much natural light. So we decided to take headshots and group photos in the lobby. The stone wall was perfect as it added some consistency to their branded scrubs. As you can see, the unified front looks sharp.
2. Departments + Group Photos.
No matter the business, it’s always a good idea to highlight every department and who’s in charge. Whether someone is looking for a diagnosis, treatment, oral surgery or orthodontics – a directory is valuable. While faces-with-names are helpful, details about your services can be very rewarding. Educational content and original photos are a good recipe to improve local SEO rankings in the medical industry.
3. Leaders in Action.
When I work as a dental photographer, most companies already have a set of images in mind. For whatever reason, business owners rarely consider marketing themselves. But the culture starts with the decision-maker. So don’t be afraid to get a little vulnerable – even if you don’t feel very photogenic. Keeping an owner’s personality from the public eye may make it seem like you’ve got something to hide!
It’s also a good idea to photograph your department heads – especially while they’re at work. Whether they’re examining X-rays, interacting with children or leading your staff; there are plenty of scenarios worth capturing. Showcasing what people can expect from your practice when they arrive makes it easier to establish and build quality patient relationships!
4. Pediatric Dentistry Patients.
If you’re going to hire a dental photographer for on-location headshots, you might as well spend some time capturing the patient experience. For parents, taking kids to the dentist is not always a pleasant outing. So make some time to show them how you’re able to engage and entertain their kids when they stop by.
On top of the safari theme, this client had plenty of stuff for littles to do! It was a no-brainer to photograph their brushing stations, spacious lobbies and array of screens. All of these things are definitely appealing to parents looking for pediatric dentistry. At the same time, nothing catches their eye like pictures of smiling children and calm infants!
5. Dental Office Features.
In our opinion, your staff and patients are the most important thing to capture. But your facility and its features come in a close second. Any way you can preview the experience, do so. If you don’t, some people may assume the atmosphere or layout isn’t something you’re proud of. Obviously this company had plenty of reasons to hire a dental photographer.
Everything about each of their locations matched their brand identity. Even the chairs, stations, artwork, glass waterfall and stone walls were consistent. They spent a lot of time on the details of their layout and it really shows! What parent wouldn’t want to bring their kids in? If you’ve got features like this then it’s in your best interest to show and tell!
When you’re able to give potential patients a virtual tour, they tend to be a lot more comfortable upon arrival. Even though you can always take your own pictures, a professional dental photographer will be able to help you capture proper angles with kid-like perspectives. I really like the way the lighting turned out on some of these website pictures.
6. DME and Dental Tools.
At first thought, it may seem wasteful to take pictures of equipment, technology or utensils. But showcasing what you have and explaining things online helps you build trust. It’s also a good idea to show a child’s viewpoint. This client was great to work with because they really do care about making sure a child feels comfortable and safe.
If there was one thing we all remember from going to the dentist as a kid – it’s probably all all of the hoses and gadgets within arm’s reach. They almost call to you, don’t they? 🙂 So, I just couldn’t work as a dental photographer without capturing this point of view:
Pediatric dentists that do a lot of in-house work are extremely valuable. Not every office has the equipment necessary to deliver timely solutions. So, if you have the ability to create same-day molds, pull teeth, give X-rays or offer cosmetic options, it’s never a bad idea to take a few pictures of the process. Here are some simple examples:
7. Photos for Future Use.
Last but not least, it’s always best to snap a few shots of a random things that might be handy for future promotions. You never know when you might need images for a safety blog, presentation on hygiene, or social media post about your patient rewards program.
Find the Right Dental Photographer.
Even the best of strategies can be ruined by a lousy photographer. So if you’re going to go all-in on your image, do your best to locate a quality professional. Not only will you enjoy the experience, but you’ll come away with far more than you expected.
If you live near Memphis, Tennessee and need some help, I’m only a phone call away! My studio is actually located in Olive Branch, Mississippi! Although branding shoots are my husband’s thing, I’m always open for a discovery session! Either way, I really hope this blog was helpful. Best of luck with your business!
