Total Body Photography in Brisbane
Total body photography (TBP) is the imaging foundation behind mole mapping. This guide explains how 2D and 3D TBP systems work, what they’re used for, how much they cost in Brisbane, and how to compare clinics that offer them.
What total body photography is
Total body photography is a standardised photographic survey of the skin — usually the full skin surface accessible to the camera — taken in defined poses so that the same regions can be reliably re-imaged and compared at future visits. The clinical value lies not in the single set of images, but in being able to detect change against them.
TBP is usually combined with dermatoscopic close-ups of individual lesions of interest. That bundle — TBP plus stored dermatoscopy — is what most Brisbane clinics call mole mapping.
2D vs 3D systems
- 2D photography. A set of standardised macro photographs (often 20–30 poses) taken in a fixed setup. Less expensive to operate; works well in experienced hands.
- 3D photography. Multi-camera systems capture the whole body simultaneously, producing a dense, navigable 3D reference. Faster acquisition, more consistent positioning, and supports software-assisted change detection over time. More expensive.
- Hybrid setups. Some clinics combine 2D macro photography with detailed dermatoscopy and digital lesion tracking, even without a 3D body scanner.
Who tends to benefit from TBP-based surveillance
- People with many moles (commonly more than 50)
- People with atypical or dysplastic naevi
- Personal or family history of melanoma
- Fair skin with substantial sun exposure
- Patients on immunosuppressive medication
- Patients who find clinical examination alone reassuring but want change detection over time
Typical TBP costs in Brisbane
| Service | Typical price range (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2D TBP / mole mapping — baseline | $200 – $450 | Includes standardised photography and dermatoscopic close-ups. |
| 3D full-body TBP — baseline | $300 – $600+ | Newer multi-camera systems; more dense reference imaging. |
| Follow-up comparison | $150 – $350 | Usually shorter than a baseline appointment. |
| Consultation component | Varies | May attract a Medicare rebate; the imaging itself does not. source · last checked 2026-05-11 |
| Image storage and patient copies | Usually included | Ask how long images are kept and whether you can have a copy. |
Prices are illustrative ranges from publicly listed clinic information and may not reflect current fees. Confirm pricing directly with the clinic before booking.
Pricing is indicative and changes over time. The imaging itself is generally a private service in Australia.
Privacy, storage and AI
Total-body photographs are sensitive health information. Before booking, ask the clinic:
- How long are my images stored, and where?
- Who can access my images?
- Are images used for AI training, research, or marketing?
- Can I receive a copy of my images if I change clinic?
- How are images deleted if I withdraw consent?
A reputable clinic should be able to answer all of these in writing.
How to choose a clinic
- Ask which TBP system is used and what dermatoscopy is included.
- Ask how change detection is performed — software, side-by-side review, both.
- Ask who interprets the images and what their training is.
- Ask about follow-up interval and the total cost across a 2–3 year surveillance period.
- Ask about privacy, storage and image ownership.
Frequently asked questions
What is total body photography (TBP)?
Total body photography is a standardised set of photographs covering most of the skin surface, taken in defined poses so that the same regions can be reliably compared at future visits. Modern TBP systems range from 2D photo sets through to multi-camera 3D systems that capture the entire body in a single sweep.
How is TBP different from mole mapping?
Mole mapping is a broader term that usually means TBP plus dermatoscopic close-ups of individual lesions, all stored together. Pure TBP captures the macro view; dermatoscopy provides the close-up detail. Most Brisbane clinics combine the two and call the service mole mapping — the underlying imaging is TBP.
Are 3D TBP systems better than 2D?
3D systems capture the whole body in a single session and produce a dense reference set that is easier to compare consistently over time. 2D systems are still effective when used by an experienced reader, particularly for patients with fewer or larger lesions. The right system depends on your risk and the clinic.
How much does TBP cost in Brisbane?
Baseline TBP-based mole mapping in Brisbane typically costs $200–$500 out-of-pocket, with 3D systems often at the higher end ($300–$600+). Follow-up imaging usually costs less ($150–$350). The imaging itself is not Medicare-rebatable.
Is TBP suitable for everyone?
TBP is most valuable for people at increased risk of melanoma — many moles, atypical naevi, personal or family history of melanoma, fair skin with significant sun exposure, or immunosuppression. People with very few moles may not gain much additional benefit over a standard clinical skin check.
What happens to the images?
Images are stored in the clinic’s clinical imaging system and used for comparison at follow-up. You should ask: how long are images kept, who can access them, are they used for AI training, and can you receive a copy if you change clinic. Australian privacy law (and clinic policy) should govern all of this.
Related guides
Sources
- Cancer Council Australia — Skin cancerlast checked 2026-05-11
- Healthdirect Australia — Moleslast checked 2026-05-11
- Australasian College of Dermatologists — Find a dermatologistlast checked 2026-05-11
- Skin Cancer College Australasialast checked 2026-05-11