Medical Illustrator

You'll need:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• design skills and knowledge
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be flexible and open to change
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Your tasks will depend on your specialism. As part of your day-to-day tasks, you may:

• record a patient's condition using a digital camera or video
• take photographs to monitor the effectiveness of operations and treatments
• use specialist equipment and techniques to capture 3D images of structures like the eye, and to record specific procedures
• work closely with doctors, nurses and patients in hospitals and university medical departments.
• photograph non-accidental injuries, in forensic photography
• provide bereavement photography for grieving parents
• copy evidence from slides and x-rays
• use software to produce presentations
• create visual materials for teaching and research purposes
• produce photography and artwork for publicity materials, annual reports, staff newspapers and websites

You could work in a photographic studio or in an NHS or private hospital.

You may need to wear protective clothing.

Career tips

Medical illustration is a small and specialised field, and there's a lot of competition for vacancies. You'll improve your job prospects if you also have relevant work experience.

Some courses include work placements, or you could contact your local university or NHS trust's medical photography department to arrange a visit or some work shadowing.

Professional and industry bodies

You can join the Academy for Healthcare Science or Institute of Medical Illustrators for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Further information

You'll find more advice on careers and training in medical illustration through the Institute of Medical Illustrators and Health Careers.