Photographing the physically abused child. Principles and practice
L. R. Ricci
Diagnostic Program for Child Abuse, Mid-Maine Medical Center, Waterville 04901.
Photographic documentation of significant findings is an important part of
any child abuse evaluation. High-quality photographs of significant
physical findings may be important in helping courts to adjudicate whether
child abuse has taken place. The physician evaluating abused children
should ensure adequate photographic documentation of visible lesions.
Physicians who care for abused children should be familiar with the basic
principles and techniques of clinical photography. These include good
equipment, adequate lighting, and planned composition. Equally important is
a working knowledge of camera equipment, film procedure, and medicolegal
implications. This review outlines for the practicing physician the basic
concepts and techniques of photographing abused children.
