A system and method utilizing a camera device containing an inertial measuring unit or similar orientation mechanism to calibrate alignment of the camera device according to a primary image such as an image displayed on an imaging screen, and then utilizing this calibration data to guide the system or user in acquiring a spatially aligned digital image using the camera device. Steps include recording the spatial orientation of the camera in at least two spatial dimensions when aligned with the primary image and guiding the camera into relative alignment with the imaging screen when taking a picture.