Take Before Photos to Track Your Fitness Journey

When starting a fitness journey, one of the most effective ways to document body transformation isn’t just stepping on the scale. It is taking before photos for fitness (or even short videos). Sure, it can feel uncomfortable at first, but they are a powerful visual reminder of how far you’ve come.

Sometimes it can be hard to see the very real changes other people see when looking in a mirror. By having something to look back on and draw a comparison to, you can make it so much easier to spot those changes.

The impact this has had on my own self image has been huge. I urge every single person starting a fitness journey to take 'before' photos. You'll only regret it if you don't.

Why before photos matter in fitness

• They show progress beyond the scale. Weight fluctuations happen for many reasons, but photos capture real physical changes that numbers can’t.

• They keep you motivated. On tough days, looking back at where you started can remind you why you began.

• They highlight strength gains. As you build muscle, your shape can change even without major weight loss. Photos help you see these transformations.

• They help you stay accountable. Documenting your journey reinforces consistency and commitment.

• They are a confidence booster. Over time, comparing your before and after images can help boost self-esteem and show just how much progress you’ve made.

How to Take the Best Before Photos

1. Wear the Right Clothing

• Choose fitted clothing or activewear that helps you to see your body shape clearly.

• Avoid baggy clothes, as they can hide changes in muscle definition and fat loss.

2. Use Good Lighting

• Natural light is best. Stand in a well-lit area to avoid shadows that distort your body’s appearance.

• If using artificial light, make sure it's bright and even across your body.

3. Take Multiple Angles

• Capture front, side, and back views to get a complete picture of your transformation.

• Stand in a neutral, relaxed position with good posture.

• Alternative Method: Prop your phone up and take a 'before' video of yourself, moving through different angles. This way, the images don’t stay in your camera roll as a constant reminder. This can be beneficial for mental health and body image concerns. Later, you can screenshot the frames to get comparison photos when you're ready to compare

4. Keep Your Background Consistent

• Take your fitness photos in the same place each time to ensure the best comparison.

• A plain wall or minimal background distractions work best.

5. Use a Timer or Ask Someone for Help

• A tripod, phone stand and utilising a timer can help take clearer, more stable photos.

• If comfortable, ask a friend or partner to take the photos for you.

6. Take Photos at the Same Time of Day

• Your body can look different depending on hydration, meals, or workouts.

• For the most accurate comparison, take photos at the same time each session.

What to Do with Your Before Photos

• Keep them private or share them. It’s your choice!

• Save them in a folder labeled with the date for easy reference.

• Compare them every 4-6 weeks to notice changes over time.

• Use them as motivation and a reminder of where you started.

Final Thoughts

Taking before photos can be hard. Even taking mid fitness journey/gym progress pictures can be hard. Often this is because we are so hard on ourselves. But it can also be an empowering step in your fitness journey. Even if progress feels slow, these images will remind you of your progress. A reminder that every workout, every healthy meal, and every bit of effort adds up.

Your progress is worth celebrating!

I always advise my clients online and at JD Gyms to take videos instead of photos. Why? Because this way, you don't need to look at them, they're hidden behind the cover of the video. You can screenshot them to get any angle you want in the future. This trick has helped me to get angles and images matched up almost perfectly.

Are you starting your fitness journey? Have you taken your before photos yet? Why don't you try my video technique instead?

Watch my YouTube video on how to take a video for your before photos: