You’ve probably seen a lot of progress photos posted in our V Shred online communities.
Or maybe you’ve played around with taking your own photo a time or two, but felt like maybe you weren’t “doing it right,” or if it’s really “worth it.”
Well, if it’s worth the trouble or not is up to you, but we can say confidently that none of the people who have experienced a DRAMATIC transformation with V Shred said they regretted taking pictures along the way. On the contrary, they found it to be inspiring…. and so did we!
Here’s how (and why) to track your progress in photos!
Why take progress photos?
Our trainers hear it all the time: people don’t want to take photos for other people to see. Maybe they’re not thrilled with how they look, so they don’t want to document a time when they feel less than confident about their outward appearance.
That’s understandable! But it’s important to remember that the scale isn’t going to tell you the whole story about what’s going on in your body, especially when you’re just starting out with exercising and eating better.
In many cases, your physique will begin to show changes BEFORE you’ll see your weight go down on the scale. And even when that dial starts to turn, at some point it’s going to stall. Why? Maybe because you’re doing everything so well, your body is burning fat and building muscle at the same time!
In that situation, the scale might not budge. But photos could show those changes are happening! That’s why our V Shred Custom Coaching trainers taking WEEKLY progress photos to monitor progress.
But if you’re still hesitant or unsure how to begin, here’s how to take your progress photos!
How to Take Progress Photos: The Essentials
- Position your mirror (or your photographer) with lighting in front of you. Lighting is key!
- If you’re taking these photos solo, use a full length mirror so you can capture your head to your feet.
- Be consistent! Take photos in the same spot and even in the same outfit each week if you’re able to.
- Wear clothes that show your shoulders, arms, midsection, and legs. For females, usually a sports bra and short shorts work just fine, and for males, either shorts or boxer briefs.
When you’re camera ready, focus on taking four core photos:
- Your front
- Your back
- Both sides
Tips for Capturing the Best Progress Photos
- Front: stand relaxed, don’t flex, and don’t stick your belly out. Just be comfortable.
- Back: raise your camera at an angle so you can capture your entire head to toe from the back. Again, relax, and try not to flex your back!
- Sides: hold your phone in the hand furthest away from the mirror. Relax, and again, don’t stick your belly out, and don’t suck it in. Just face forward and stand comfortably. Then switch sides, hands, and do the same thing.
Once you have your photos, you can upload them to your V Shred profile, share in our community groups, or keep them for your eyes only. No matter what you decide, the photos are there to motivate YOU as you continue down the path of progress.
If you’re still not sure what you’re seeing on the scale is accurate, or you’re struggling to find the accountability and support to help you achieve healthy, sustainable weight loss, let our team help!
V Shred’s custom coaching team has created over 1 million fully personalized workout and meal plans. Each one was built with a specific person’s likes, dislikes, abilities, and lifestyle in mind! Our coaches are people you can talk to and ask questions… and yes, vent about the scale!
They’re real people who have helped thousands of other real people just like you—not robots creating cookie-cutter plans! With a coach’s help, all you have to do is bring the commitment!
Every V Shred custom nutrition and workout plans comes with:
- Customization to your likes, dislikes, and abilities
- Unlimited communication with your coach
- Unlimited changes to your plan
Get matched up with your perfect coach and start building a life-changing relationship today!