Interdisciplinary Effectiveness
The University of Sydney values the ability of interdisciplinary effectiveness as one of the graduate qualities. As a radiography student with a Master of Fine Arts degree in Photography, I bring a distinctive visual perspective to medical imaging.
Years of photography pratice have developed a disciplined way of observing: before pressing the shutter, I assess whether the lighting, composition and exposure accurately delivery the essential characteristics of a scene. I have found that this way of thinking has a natural application in clinical radiography. At a fundamental level, both photography and X-Ray imaging involve using light, geometry and exposure to capture and present information. The difference is that, in radiography, the focus is on human anatomy and pathology, and the measure of success shifts from aesthetics to diagnostic value, with a much greater emphasis on precision, efficienry and safety.
Since beginning my first-year X-Ray toturials, and throughout multiple placements, I have found myself drawing naturally on the visual judgement developed through photography. For example, I consider how anatomical structures and soft-tissue shadows may project within an image at different positions, and how collimation and exposure can be balanced to achieve sufficient image quality while minimising patient radiation dose. I am also highly attentive to the appearance of the final image and can quickly recognise variations in contrast, noise and overall image quality. This visual sensitivity allows me to make informed adjustments and improve image readability rather than simply following a standard protocol mechanically.
My ongoing work in real-estate photography has further strengthened this ability. Architectural photography often requires me to enter an unfamiliar environment and rapidly determine the most appropriate shooting position, focal length, lighting conditions and exposure strategy. I have found this experience transferable to clinical situations, where patients differ in body habitus, mobility and ability to cooperate with instructions. Rather than relying solely on a fixed workflow, I aim to adapt positioning and technical factors to the individual patient while maintaining the requirements of the examination.
My clinical notebook contains records of positioning decisions, projection angles and reflections from different examinations performed during my placements. I intend to use these records as evidence of how I analyse and refine my radiographic practice through reflection and experience.
In addition to my visual and photographic background, I have developed a strong interest in digital imaging systems and the technical processes underlying image acquisition, processing, storage and distribution. My familiarity with digital imaging workflows helps me adapt quickly to new clinical environments and troubleshoot practical technical issues. During my first clinical placement, for example, I was able to assist with Windows-based computer systems within the diagnostic imaging clinic and contribute to resolving technical issues encountered by staff.
For me, the value of interdisciplinary experience is not simply the combination of two separate skill sets. Rather, my photographic training has become a way of thinking that I can apply to understanding, evaluating and optimising radiographic practice. It has strengthened my visual judgement, attention to detail and ability to adapt when working with unfamiliar equipment, environments and clinical situations. Most importantly, I see this interdisciplinary perspective as a foundation for creative and practical problem-solving: finding more effective ways to perform radiographic examinations while maintaining image quality, patient-centred care and the ALARA principle.
Fixing PC issues during my placement.
Clinical NotesAdapting to Agfa Valory Imaging System.Comparing different Skull X-Ray techniques.Post-processing for a commercial real-estate photography project.