I know photos can feel daunting or embarrassing for some people, myself included! But they are necessary to really truly see the progress you are making. They also help me as your trainer understand how the exercises are helping to shape your body. It will help me determine what we need to modify or what your next exercises are going to look like to achieve the body of your dreams! If you are dead-set against sharing your progress photos, I still encourage you to take photos and store them in a hidden folder on your phone or device. This way you can see how far you have come over time.
Object
- If you’re feeling uncomfortable about taking your first before photo, keep in mind that this is probably a reflection of your discomfort with what your body looks like. That’s the exact reason we’re doing this! We’re about to embark on a transformational journey to change and improve YOU.
- Be sure to take your photos in underwear or swimwear so you can get a true understanding of just how far you have come in the future! This means don’t pull clothing or hold hands over those parts of your body that you don’t like.
- Always take photos without flexing your muscles and breathing out, so any changes you make are more visible in follow up photos. REMEMBER: No sucking it in, be free, and if you have long hair, go ahead and tie it up!
- Try to pose the same every time. Be mindful of how you angle your head, where you put your hands, and what stance you take with your feet and legs.
Environment
- Use the same location every time.
- Use natural light if possible.
- Pick a background with as little visual clutter as possible. A simple, white wall is ideal.
- Consider the availability of your chosen location. Will you be able to access it on will for the foreseeable future?
Timing
- Take your photos at the same time of the same day. I prefer to do mine in the mornings before eating or drinking, or working out.
- Women might want to take their photos a week or so after the end of their period, to avoid any bloating or water retention.
- Photos should be taken when you start your program and then again every 4 weeks. I’ll make sure to mark the due dates for you in your spreadsheet
Posing
- Get one photo each from the front, the back, and the sides.
- The best way to take progress photos is by using a timer and camera stand or leaning the camera against something.
- You can also get help from someone else if you prefer, although keep in mind that it might be tricky to get someone to help you time and time again, so keep that in mind.
- Make sure your whole body is in the photo – from head to toe.
- Try to take each photo from the same distance every time. A helpful landmark is to allow a consistent distance above the top of the head and below the bottom of the feet.