The ophthalmic photographer plays an important role in patient care by capturing pathology using various imaging devices. These images enable the physician to put together the pieces of the puzzle to properly diagnosis and treat their patients.

Over the course of my career, the role of ophthalmic photographer has evolved into a multi-modality imaging role. (Several examples of my work are presented in this article.) This career has never left me bored, because I constantly learn of the technological advances in our field. I have found the experience gained as an ophthalmic photographer can open a variety of paths that you can take as you develop your career. (See “Exploring career avenues,” below.) This article describes the paths I have taken on my career journey.

The first career steps

I began my career as an ophthalmic assistant and retinal photographer at a practice in Chicago. After a year, I moved to Minnesota where I found a position of 28 years at VitreoRetinal Surgery, now known as Retina Consultants of Minnesota. Here, the physicians placed high expectations on imaging due to their work in research and teaching. At that time, the retinal photos captured used color film for documentation and black and white film for studying retinal circulation through fluorescein angiography. The film produced a high-resolution image, and photographers used stereo technique, which the physician required to view pathology accurately and study the reaction it had to the retina using diagnostic dyes. Because of the camera’s small angle of views, images had to be carefully focused with proper saturation and placement on the pathology.

Moving into research

Within a few years, I moved into a research photographer role at the practice. It is my favorite role because the photographer helps enhance patient care while building a skillset and knowledge about future technology and treatments. This role required photographers to submit color and fluorescein images to a placement and timing protocol written by the reading center. To achieve certification as a study photographer in a modality, the photographer’s images were graded on their quality.

Career support and certification

The ophthalmic photographer’s job requires multi-tasking skills. To gain these skills, and be able to perform them quickly and effectively, I took the initiative to continue learning and get certified. I was introduced to the Ophthalmic Photographers’ Society (OPS), where I found a community of ophthalmic photographers around the country who were willing to assist and encourage me in my journey. The OPS offered educational meetings and certifications that gave me the opportunity to learn about ophthalmic photography from different perspectives. We shared ideas and tips to improve our imaging skills. For example, at the 2019 OPS annual program, Olivia Rainey, OCT-C, COA, described a technique to image babies and young children using the ultra-widefield camera. This imaging technique I learned has given our pediatric retinal specialists a more efficient way to examine and treat pediatric patients. In addition, OPS meetings provided networking opportunities with other ophthalmic photographers where I made valuable connections for advice and insight for career opportunities.

Shortly after I became a member of the OPS, I obtained my certification as a Certified Retinal Angiographer (CRA). The certifications have given me an in-depth understanding of skills as an ophthalmic photographer and reflected my personal growth. The certifications also gave the doctors confidence in my skills.

Rewards of sharing knowledge and passion

In addition to my position as clinic and research photographer, I stepped outside my box: In 2007, I accepted a part-time position as an ophthalmic photography instructor at The School of Ophthalmic Medical Technology through Regions Hospital in St. Paul, MN. There, I instructed students on retinal anatomy, fundus photography, angiography, OCT, and interpretation of retinal pathology until the school closed in 2020. This program allowed me to instill the passion of ophthalmic imaging to students who were beginning a career in ophthalmology. Instructing at an accredited program helped me advance my public speaking skills and understand the different ways everyone learns to develop effective teaching strategies.

I wanted to keep advancing my education, improving my teaching skills, and giving back on a bigger scale. In 2019, I ran for an open position on the Board of Education with the OPS. One of many benefits of a board position was the leadership skills and teamwork gained as we developed educational materials and programs to help educate ophthalmic imagers. After four years on the Board of Education, I was awarded the title of Fellow of Ophthalmic Photographers’ Society, which has been the highlight of my career.

Take the initiative

One thing is for sure, imaging technology is always advancing. (See “Advances in imaging,” above.) To stay current requires learning, so if you have an interest in this career path, take the initiative and seek out organizations and ophthalmic photographers that help you grow and develop to take the shot that frames you. OP