What is a retinal photography?
Retinal photography — also known as fundus photography — captures a detailed, high-resolution image of the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels at the back of your eye. These photographs create a permanent visual record that your optometrist can use to monitor changes in your eye health over time. While an optometrist can examine the retina directly during a standard eye test, photographs provide an objective, shareable, and comparable record that is invaluable for long-term monitoring.
Most modern retinal cameras are non-mydriatic, meaning they can take photographs without the need to dilate your pupils with drops — the camera uses a brief flash of light, and the process is over in seconds. Some opticians use ultra-wide-field cameras that can capture up to 200 degrees of the retina in a single image, compared to the 45 degrees visible through a traditional ophthalmoscope. This wider view can reveal peripheral retinal problems that might otherwise be missed.
Retinal photography is widely available as an add-on to a standard eye test at most high-street opticians. While it is not a replacement for a full OCT scan (which shows the layers beneath the retinal surface), it is an excellent complementary tool and is particularly useful for tracking conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular changes, and hypertensive retinopathy. Many opticians include it as standard in their enhanced eye test packages.
Who needs a retinal photography?
- Anyone wanting a visual record of their retinal health for future comparison
- People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or other conditions that affect the eyes
- Those with a family history of retinal conditions
- Patients being monitored for macular degeneration or other retinal changes
- Anyone who finds pupil dilation drops inconvenient — non-mydriatic photography is a practical alternative
What to expect during a retinal photography
- 1You rest your chin on a support and look into the camera
- 2There is a brief flash of light as each eye is photographed — this may cause temporary dazzle
- 3No drops are usually needed, though some cameras work better with dilated pupils
- 4The photographs are instantly available for your optometrist to review
- 5Images are stored in your patient record for comparison at future visits
How much does it cost?
£5–£15 as an add-on to a standard eye test. Some opticians include it free of charge
How often should you have this test?
Annually, or as part of each eye test appointment