How to Take Progress Photos

Taking clear, consistent hair progress photos is one of the most practical ways to track changes during telogen effluvium. High-quality progress photos can help you notice subtle improvements or worsening over time, especially when paired with notes about shedding, stressors, or treatments. By following a repeatable method for lighting, angles, and hair condition, you can avoid misleading results and make your comparisons more meaningful.

Why progress photos matter for telogen effluvium

Telogen effluvium is a temporary hair shedding condition that often fluctuates from day to day. Because the amount of visible shedding or thinning can change based on lighting, styling, and even mood, it is easy to misjudge progress. Progress photos provide a visual record that helps you see trends over weeks or months, rather than getting discouraged or falsely reassured by daily changes. This is especially important since telogen effluvium often improves gradually, and regrowth may be subtle at first.

Consistent progress photos can also help you communicate more clearly with your clinician. If you are considering a new treatment or monitoring recovery, having a series of well-taken images can provide valuable context. These photos are not a substitute for medical diagnosis, but they can support discussions about your hair health and help you and your provider spot patterns or triggers that may not be obvious day to day.

What photos can (and cannot) show

Progress photos can reveal changes in hair density, the width of your part line, the appearance of your hairline, and the coverage at your crown. They can help you notice areas of regrowth or ongoing thinning. However, photos cannot diagnose telogen effluvium or distinguish it from other causes of hair loss, such as alopecia areata or scarring alopecia. Photos may also miss subtle changes in texture or volume that you feel but cannot see.

It is important to remember that lighting, angle, and hair condition can dramatically affect how your hair looks in photos. A photo taken with harsh overhead lighting or with wet hair may exaggerate thinning, while certain styling products can mask it. Use progress photos as a tool for tracking, not as a definitive diagnostic method.

How photos help with tracking shedding and regrowth

When paired with notes about your shedding patterns, stress levels, illnesses, or new medications, progress photos can help you spot connections between triggers and changes in your hair. For example, you may notice increased shedding after a stressful event or see early signs of regrowth a few months after starting a new treatment. This visual record can be especially valuable for telogen effluvium, which often follows a delayed timeline after a trigger.

Regularly reviewing your photos alongside a log of shedding or other symptoms can help you set realistic expectations and avoid overreacting to normal day-to-day variation. Monthly comparisons are usually more useful than daily checks, since hair growth and shedding cycles do not change overnight.

Before you start: set a baseline and a schedule

Before taking your first set of hair progress photos, it is essential to establish a clear baseline. This means capturing your hair in its current state, under consistent conditions, so you have a reliable starting point for future comparisons. Decide on the specific areas you want to photograph, such as the hairline, crown, and part line, and make sure your hair is clean and dry for your baseline images.

Setting a regular schedule for taking progress photos will help you track meaningful changes over time. Telogen effluvium can fluctuate, so daily photos are usually not helpful. Instead, choose an interval that balances consistency with practicality, such as every four weeks or once a month. This approach allows you to see trends without getting lost in minor day-to-day differences.

Pick a start date and a repeat interval

Choose a start date that makes sense for your situation, such as the day you notice increased shedding, begin a new treatment, or recover from a known trigger. Mark this date in your calendar and set reminders for your repeat interval. Most people find that monthly photos provide the best balance between detail and perspective, but you can adjust this based on your needs.

Consistency is key. Try to take your photos on the same day of the week and at the same time of day, if possible. This reduces the chance that lighting or hair condition will vary between sessions. If you are tracking a specific event, such as starting a new medication, note this in your log so you can correlate changes in your photos with changes in your routine.

Keep a simple log alongside photos (shedding, triggers, treatments)

A written log is a valuable companion to your progress photos. Record details such as the amount of shedding (for example, how much hair you see in the shower or on your brush), any major stressors, illnesses, changes in diet, or new treatments. This information can help you and your clinician identify patterns or triggers that may be affecting your hair.

You do not need a complicated system. A simple notebook, spreadsheet, or notes app can work well. Include the date, a brief description of your hair condition, and any relevant events or changes. Over time, this log will become a useful tool for understanding your hair’s response to different factors.

The setup: consistent lighting, background, and camera

The most important factor in taking reliable hair progress pictures is consistency. Using the same lighting, background, and camera settings each time makes it much easier to compare photos and spot real changes. Even small differences in setup can make your hair look thicker or thinner than it really is, so take a few minutes to prepare your environment before each session.

Choose a plain, uncluttered background that contrasts with your hair color. Avoid busy patterns or shadows that could distract from your scalp and hair. Set up your camera or phone at the same distance and height for every photo, and use the same settings for focus and resolution. If possible, mark your position on the floor to help you repeat the setup each time.

Best lighting choices (natural vs indoor)

Natural daylight is usually the best option for hair progress photos, as it provides even, diffuse light that reduces harsh shadows. Stand near a window with indirect sunlight, but avoid direct sun, which can create glare and exaggerate thinning. If natural light is not available, use bright, cool-toned indoor lighting from multiple sources to minimize shadows.

Try to use the same lighting conditions each time you take photos. If you must use artificial light, choose LED or daylight bulbs and avoid yellow or dim lighting. Consistency in lighting is more important than the specific source, so pick a setup you can easily repeat.

Avoiding misleading shadows and glare

Shadows and glare can make your hair look thinner or patchier than it really is. To avoid this, position yourself so that the light falls evenly across your scalp. Avoid standing directly under overhead lights, which can cast shadows on your part line or crown. If you see bright spots or reflections on your scalp in the preview, adjust your angle or move the light source.

Using a ring light or diffused lamp can help create even illumination. If you wear glasses, remove them to prevent reflections. Check your photos before saving to ensure that shadows or glare are not distorting the appearance of your hair.

Camera basics: distance, focus, and resolution

Use the same camera or smartphone for every session. Set the camera at a consistent distance from your head, typically about arm’s length or as far as needed to capture the target area clearly. If possible, use a tripod or stable surface to keep the camera steady and at the same height for each photo.

Make sure your camera is in focus and set to the highest resolution available. Avoid using filters or beauty modes, as these can alter the appearance of your scalp and hair. If your phone has a timer, use it to reduce movement and allow for hands-free shots, especially for crown or vertex photos.

How to take hairline photos (front and temples)

Capturing the hairline and temples accurately is essential for tracking changes in these areas, which are often affected in telogen effluvium and other hair loss conditions. To get reliable hairline photos, use the same position, camera height, and hair styling each time. This makes it easier to spot subtle shifts in density or regrowth along the frontal hairline and at the temples.

Stand in front of a plain background with your face relaxed and your hair styled in the same way for every session. Use natural or consistent indoor lighting and avoid shadows on your forehead or temples. Take several photos from slightly different angles (straight on, left, and right) to capture the full hairline.

Mark your position and camera height

Marking your position on the floor with tape or a small object can help you stand in the same spot each time. Place your camera or phone at eye level, either on a tripod or a stable surface, and keep it at a fixed distance from your face. This reduces distortion and ensures that your hairline appears the same size in every photo.

If you are taking the photos yourself, use your phone’s front-facing camera and timer. Hold the camera steady and look straight ahead, keeping your chin at a neutral angle. For temple photos, turn your head slightly to the side while maintaining the same camera height.

Hair styling rules: same part line, same product use

Always style your hair the same way for each session. Use the same part line, avoid adding or removing volume with blow-drying, and do not use new products that could change the appearance of your hair. If you normally use gel, mousse, or other styling products, apply them consistently or take photos with clean, product-free hair.

Avoid pulling your hair back tightly or using accessories that could alter your hairline. If you color your hair, try to schedule photos just before your next coloring session for consistency.

How to take crown photos (top and vertex)

The crown and vertex are common sites for visible thinning in telogen effluvium. These areas can be challenging to photograph, especially alone, but with the right technique, you can capture clear, repeatable images. Consistency in angle, lighting, and hair condition is just as important here as for hairline photos.

Use a mirror or ask a helper to ensure you are photographing the same spot each time. Take photos with your hair parted in the same way and avoid using volumizing products or powders before your session. Good crown photos can help you and your clinician monitor changes in density and regrowth at the top of your scalp.

Using a timer, mirror, or helper

If you are taking crown photos by yourself, use your phone’s timer and position a mirror behind you to help frame the shot. Hold the camera directly above your head, pointing down at the crown, and keep your arms steady. If possible, ask a friend or family member to take the photo for you, as this often results in clearer, more accurate images.

Check the preview to ensure your crown and vertex are centered and in focus. Take several shots from slightly different angles to capture the full area.

Keeping the same angle and head tilt

Head tilt can dramatically change how your crown looks in photos. Keep your head in a neutral position, looking straight ahead or slightly down, and avoid tilting to the side. Use a mirror or a marked spot on the wall to help align your head the same way each time.

If you are using a tripod, set it to the same height and angle for every session. If a helper is taking the photo, ask them to stand in the same spot and hold the camera at the same height each time. Consistency in angle and head position is key to making fair comparisons over time.

Part line and scalp photos (optional but useful)

Photographing your part line and scalp can provide additional information about hair density and regrowth, especially in telogen effluvium where diffuse thinning is common. These photos are optional but can be very helpful for tracking subtle changes that might not be visible at the hairline or crown.

Choose a part line location that is easy to reproduce, such as your natural part or a straight center part. Use a fine-tooth comb to create a clean line and ensure your hair is dry and free of heavy products. Take photos from directly above, with even lighting, to minimize shadows on the scalp.

Choosing the same part line location each time

Consistency in part line location is essential for accurate comparisons. Use a comb to create the same part each time, and consider taking a reference photo of your parting technique for future sessions. If you change your part frequently, pick one location to use for all progress photos.

Take the photo from directly above, holding the camera parallel to your scalp. If possible, use a mirror or ask a helper to ensure the part line is centered and clearly visible in the frame.

What to do if you color your hair or change your haircut

Hair color and haircut changes can affect how your scalp and part line appear in photos. If you color your hair, try to schedule progress photos just before your next coloring session to maintain consistency. Note any changes in your log, including the date and type of color used.

If you get a significant haircut, take a new baseline photo and record the date. Be aware that shorter hair may make the scalp more visible, while longer hair can provide more coverage. Consistency in hair length and color makes your progress photos more reliable.

Common mistakes that make photos look worse (or better) than reality

Even with careful planning, certain mistakes can make your hair progress pictures misleading. Being aware of these pitfalls will help you avoid false impressions of improvement or worsening. The most common issues involve hair condition, lighting, angles, and the use of styling products.

Always aim for honesty and consistency in your photos. Avoid the temptation to style your hair differently or use tricks to make it look thicker or thinner. Reliable progress photos are a valuable tool for tracking real changes, not for creating the best possible appearance.

Wet hair vs dry hair

Wet hair clumps together and exposes more of the scalp, making thinning appear worse than it is. Always take progress photos with clean, dry hair to ensure a fair comparison. If your hair is oily, wash and dry it before your session, as oil can also weigh hair down and exaggerate thinning.

If you must take a photo with damp hair, note this in your log and avoid comparing it to photos taken with dry hair. Consistency in hair condition is just as important as lighting and angle.

Different angles, different lighting, different results

Changing the angle or lighting between sessions can dramatically alter the appearance of your hair. For example, overhead lighting can cast shadows that make the part line look wider, while side lighting can enhance shine and coverage. Always use the same setup for each session to avoid misleading results.

If you notice a dramatic difference between two photos, review your setup for changes in angle, lighting, or camera distance. Small variations can create the illusion of progress or worsening that is not real.

Volume tricks: blow-drying, oils, powders, and hats

Blow-drying, volumizing powders, and certain styling products can make your hair look fuller in photos. Conversely, heavy oils or wearing a hat before your session can flatten hair and make thinning more visible. For honest tracking, avoid using new products or techniques before taking progress photos.

If you use hair fibers, dry shampoo, or other concealers, note this in your log and try to take at least one set of photos with clean, product-free hair each month. This provides a true picture of your hair’s condition and helps you and your clinician assess changes accurately.

How to compare photos fairly

Comparing progress photos side by side is the best way to spot real changes in hair density, regrowth, or shedding patterns. Organize your photos by date and area (hairline, crown, part line) and use consistent file names to make retrieval easy. Avoid comparing photos taken under different conditions, as this can lead to false conclusions.

Look for gradual trends over weeks or months, rather than focusing on minor day-to-day differences. Telogen effluvium often improves slowly, and normal fluctuations are common. Use your log to correlate changes in your photos with events, treatments, or triggers.

Side-by-side method and naming files

Save your photos with clear, descriptive file names that include the date and area photographed (for example, “2025-01-01_hairline_front.jpg”). Store them in a dedicated folder on your device or cloud storage. Use photo editing software or your phone’s gallery app to view images side by side for easy comparison.

Consider creating a collage or timeline of your progress photos to visualize changes over time. This can be especially motivating during recovery from telogen effluvium.

What changes are meaningful vs normal day-to-day variation

Meaningful changes in hair density or regrowth usually occur over weeks or months, not days. Small differences in lighting, angle, or hair condition can create the illusion of progress or worsening. Focus on consistent trends, such as a gradually narrowing part line or increased coverage at the crown, rather than isolated differences between two photos.

If you are unsure whether a change is significant, review your log for possible triggers or treatments that could explain the shift. Consult your clinician if you notice sudden patchy hair loss, scalp pain, or other concerning symptoms.

Privacy and storage

Progress photos are sensitive personal data, and it is important to store them securely. Use password-protected folders or encrypted cloud storage to prevent unauthorized access. Avoid sharing your images on social media or with anyone you do not trust.

If you plan to share your photos with a clinician, use secure methods such as encrypted email or a patient portal. Always keep backup copies in case your device is lost or damaged. Protecting your privacy ensures that your progress tracking remains confidential and safe.

Protecting sensitive images

Store your progress photos in a dedicated, password-protected folder on your phone, computer, or cloud account. Consider using apps designed for secure photo storage, which offer additional encryption and privacy features. Avoid saving images in general photo galleries where they may be accessed by others.

Regularly back up your images to a secure location, such as an encrypted external drive or a reputable cloud service. Delete any unwanted or duplicate photos to minimize the risk of accidental sharing.

Sharing photos with a clinician

If you need to share your progress photos with a healthcare provider, use secure methods such as a patient portal, encrypted email, or a secure file transfer service. Label your photos clearly with the date and area photographed to help your clinician interpret them accurately.

Bring your photos to appointments on a password-protected device or print them if requested. Never rely solely on photos for diagnosis or treatment decisions; always discuss your concerns with a qualified clinician.

FAQ

How often should I take hair progress pictures for telogen effluvium?

Monthly progress photos are usually recommended for telogen effluvium. This interval allows you to track meaningful changes without getting distracted by normal day-to-day variation. Choose a consistent date and time for each session to maximize comparability.

Should I photograph shedding (hair in the shower/brush) or just my scalp?

While scalp photos are most useful for tracking density and regrowth, some people find it helpful to photograph the amount of hair shed in the shower or brush. If you choose to do this, use a consistent background and include a reference object for scale. Pair these photos with notes in your log for context.

What lighting is best for consistent lighting angles at home?

Natural daylight from a window provides the most even and reliable lighting for hair progress photos. If natural light is not available, use bright, cool-toned indoor lighting from multiple sources to minimize shadows. Always use the same lighting setup for each session.

Can I take progress photos if I use hair fibers, dry shampoo, or styling products?

Yes, but for the most accurate tracking, take at least one set of photos each month with clean, product-free hair. If you use hair fibers, dry shampoo, or other styling products, note this in your log and try to use them consistently for each session. Avoid introducing new products just before taking photos.

Why do my photos look worse some days even if shedding is improving?

Day-to-day changes in lighting, angle, hair condition, or styling can make your hair look thinner or fuller in photos, even if shedding is stable or improving. Focus on monthly comparisons under consistent conditions to get a true sense of progress.

How do I take crown photos by myself if I live alone?

Use your phone’s timer and a mirror to help frame the shot. Hold the camera directly above your head and check the preview to ensure your crown is centered and in focus. Taking several photos from slightly different angles can help you capture the area accurately.

Do progress photos help tell telogen effluvium from pattern hair loss?

Progress photos can reveal patterns of thinning and regrowth, but they cannot diagnose the specific cause of hair loss. Both telogen effluvium and pattern hair loss can affect similar areas. Always consult a clinician for a definitive diagnosis.

When should I stop photographing and just focus on maintenance?

Once your shedding has stabilized and you are satisfied with your hair’s appearance, you may choose to reduce the frequency of progress photos or stop altogether. Continue to monitor for any new changes and consult your clinician if concerns arise.