Evaluation of the optimal exposure settings for occlusal photography with digital cameras

In this study, single-lens reflex and mirrorless cameras were used with a ring flash, ring light emitting diode (LED), or standard fluorescent lamp to determine the optimal exposure parameters for occlusal photography. Materials and methods Fifty-six dentists evaluated images of a discolored nonvital central incisor and first molar with recurrent caries and stained fissures clipped from a low-magnification photograph of the adult maxillary occlusal surface reflected in a mirror by using various F-numbers (representing aperture), shutter speeds, and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) numbers (representing light sensitivity). Results The results showed that F-numbers between 5.6 and 10, shutter speeds faster than 1/30s, and ISO 800 produce the best occlusal images when a 60 mm f/2.8 Macro lens is used. Better images are obtained with ring LED than with ring flash. Furthermore, ISO 3200 is required for low-magnification photography in natural light. Finally, intraoral digital images should be captured under low magnification, because tilted or deflected images can be adjusted by using imaging software.
Source: Pediatric Dental Journal - Category: Dentistry Source Type: research