Apparatus and methods for providing a distance indication using an x-ray apparatus. According to various embodiments, an x-ray apparatus may be provided comprising an x-ray generator and a visible light generator. The apparatus may further comprise a projection member, such as a reticle, comprising a material at least partially transparent to visible light, wherein the projection member comprises an image positioned within the path of the visible light so as to project a secondary image comprising a shadow defined by the image. A LASER configured to deliver a LASER beam at an angle relative to the visible light may be provided such that the LASER beam intersects at least a portion of the secondary image at a predetermined distance from the LASER to allow a user to determine precisely a distance from the apparatus to an object to be exposed to x-ray radiation.
