Medical Photographer
About the Role
Join Cleveland Clinic’s Main Campus where innovation meets compassion, technology is cutting-edge, and patient care is world class. Here, you will work alongside a collaborative and dedicated team, receive ongoing support and recognition, and build a meaningful career with one of the most respected healthcare organizations in the world.
Plastic Surgery and Dermatology Photography play a vital role in documenting patient care with precision, consistency, and attention to detail. This specialty focuses on capturing high-quality clinical images before and after procedures to support diagnosis, treatment planning, education, and research. Utilizing advanced imaging techniques and standardized protocols, photographers ensure accurate visual records that contribute to optimal patient outcomes. Photographers in this role work closely with physicians, surgeons, and clinical staff across multiple specialties, supporting both surgical and non-surgical procedures. The position requires a strong understanding of medical privacy, professionalism, and patient sensitivity, as well as the ability to create a comfortable environment for patients during vulnerable moments.
Responsibilities
- Independently photograph and directly interact with patients (newborn – elderly) to provide basic posing instructions in the studio or patient rooms.
- Communicate with multiple types of caregivers, such as members of the dermatology and plastic surgery nursing teams, APPs, and staff physicians and surgeons, on what photographs are required for each patient.
- Comply with all HIPAA laws and regulations and hospital policies, especially patient privacy and patient recording policies.
- Prepare digital photography files for insurance and surgical use on a daily and weekly basis.
- Track photo releases and authorization forms signed by patients.
- Collect and upload photographs taken by other caregivers.
- Utilize special photographic equipment and databases for research studies.
- Assist with onboarding and training surgeons, residents, and nursing staff on photography related policies and best practices.
- Research and recommend purchase of photographic supplies and equipment for department needs.
- Photograph and retouch employee headshots.
- Occasionally work one-on-one with caregivers on special projects. This can include light photo editing, basic video editing, and PowerPoint or poster design.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Knowledge of photographic techniques and processes to produce high quality photographs
- Minimum three years related still, color and black and white photography experience (Associate's Degree in Photography/Audiovisual may substitute for one year of experience)
Preferred Qualifications
- Portfolio
- Five years of digital photography experience
- Associate’s Degree in Photography or Bachelor's in Photography
- Experience in medical, clinical, or surgical photography, particularly in plastic surgery or dermatology
- Ability to follow standardized clinical photography protocols (consistent framing, lighting, patient positioning, and background control)
- Proficiency in photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom
- Advanced computer proficiency, including experience with Microsoft Office, especially Microsoft PowerPoint
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage high volumes of images and patient data efficiently
- Ability to maintain color accuracy and consistency for clinical comparison and documentation
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- High level of emotional intelligence and ability to support patients in sensitive or vulnerable situations
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in documentation
- Ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced clinical environment with changing priorities
- Ability to give training and provide education to staff on workflows, policies, or technical processes
- Demonstrated professionalism and commitment to patient confidentiality
- Ability to troubleshoot equipment problems in person and over the phone
- Demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement, with the ability to evaluate workflows, implement process enhancements, and support ongoing clinical and operational excellence
Physical Requirements
- Motor coordination and manual dexterity sufficient for adjusting, focusing and working with fine types of equipment.
- Normal or corrected vision to ensure photographs are in focus
- May require periods of sitting, standing and the ability to walk to various locations throughout the health system
- Must have own transportation to travel to multiple sites
Personal Protective Equipment: Follows standard precautions using personal protective equipment as required.
Schedule
A caregiver in this role works days from 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. and is on-site 4 days a week.
Pay
Pay Range Minimum hourly: $17.25
Maximum hourly: $26.31
The pay range displayed on this job posting reflects the anticipated range for new hires. A successful candidate’s actual compensation will be determined after taking factors into consideration such as the candidate’s work history, experience, skill set and education. The pay range displayed does not include any applicable pay practices (e.g., shift differentials, overtime, etc.).