Photography for Wound Management Figure 14. Incorrect positioning resulting in angular distortion (reproduced by permission of Sam Evans, Cardiff University). Disposable paper scales may be used where there is a significant risk of infection. Because of their flexibility however, they have a tendency to curve or distort with the contours of the skin and are therefore of limited value (because of this, paper measurement scales should not be used in photographs of suspected non-accidental injuries as the measurements provided are less reliable and are therefore unsuitable for use in any subsequent legal proceedings).
They can however, be useful to give an impression of the extent of a wound, particularly over large curved surfaces (Figures 15-18). (top left) (bottom left) (centre) (right) Figure 15. Location view of mole on arm (top left). Figure 16. Close-up view of mole with measurement scale (bottom left). Figure 17. Close-up view of mole with straight vertical guides to demonstrate curvature of measurement scale (centre). Figure 18. Close-up view of mole with identical sized blocks to demonstrate difference in measurements of each centimetre area as a result of curvature (right). clinical photography, design and video in healthcare page 15