How to take progress pictures.

So you’ve been eating well, working out regularly and staying consistent. Then you step on the scale and are met with disappointment when the number glaring back at you pops up. Don’t panic! The number on the scale doesn’t lie, but it also doesn’t tell the entire truth. What’s missing is that it doesn’t tell you if you’ve lost fat, gained muscle or are retaining water.

Even though you see your reflection in the mirror every day, it’s difficult to actually notice if you’re making progress. A better way to monitor your progress is to take progress photos. When you compare photos of yourself from when you first started your new fitness regime, we promise you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

To guarantee the best progression photos, here are our top tips. Follow these and you’ll produce pictures that help you stay on track, monitor your progress effectively and reach your goals.

Tip 1: Show your shape

To compare the changes, you’ll need to see the changes. It’s impossible to do this if you’re wearing a baggy t-shirt or shorts. Form-fitting activewear/swimwear is best. Your stomach area should be visible, as this is a great indicator of weight loss and/or muscle gain.

Tip 2: Wear the same clothes

If you can’t wear the same outfit, at least wear something similar every time you take your picture. If you’re proud of your progress, you might want to show others, so we encourage you to avoid posing in your underwear.

Tip 3: Use a plain wall

Make sure there is no clutter, patterns, bright colors or distracting

objects in the background. Also, use the same spot each time you

take your progress shots.

Tip 4: Take a full-body photo at eye level

No mirror selfies. If you find this challenging, ask someone you feel comfortable with to take your photo or use a timer function. Make sure to position your body straight and center to fill the frame.

Tip 5: Shoot from 4 angles

To understand the full scope of how your body is changing, it’s important to capture your front, side, and back.

Tip 6: Stand in natural light

Try to take your photo in natural daylight. If that isn’t possible, ensure that your room is well lit and there is as much light as possible.

Tip 7: Maintain good posture

Stand up straight, with your shoulders back and down and arms relaxed at your sides. Recreate the same pose each time.

Take your time getting your photos right — you’ll appreciate it down the line. This is your journey and you should take pride each step of the way. Well-captured progress photos will really help you see just how far you’ve come and will propel you even further to reach your weight loss goals.