Choosing what to wear for newborn photo sessions can be such a chore for new parents who just want to sleep! Let’s be honest, deciding on a wardrobe for any photo session is tough, but choosing what to wear for newborn pictures brings in added challenges. Between a new mom’s changing body, dad’s nerves and the unpredictability of newborns… well, it’s stressful.
We brought in pro photographers to offer their expert advice on the best outfits for newborn photos for the whole family. Because, it’s hard enough deciding on swaddle blanket patterns! Here are their tips—
Feature photo above by Jamie Rubies
1. Let mom choose her outfit first.
“I think it is really important that everyone feels comfortable. I suggest that the mom selects her outfit first, and that she finds something she is comfortable in. If there are any concerns about her post-pregnancy shape then I suggest wearing something loose or with layers. If the mom is conscious of her cleavage, then I recommend  a higher neckline, since I take photos from many different angles. Once mom’s outfit is selected, the partner can pick something out that he or she loves with complementary colors.” — Beth Ann Fricker, BAF Photography, @bethannfricker
2. Keep it casual.
“For dads, I recommend lighter colored pants (khaki or gray) and a neutral color palette for their top. I like to photograph dads in button-ups and v-neck shirts (which are less casual than crew neck).” — Chelsey Hill, @chelseyhillphotography
3. Consider where the photos will be displayed.
“When choosing a newborn session wardrobe, think about the final results and how the photos will be featured in the home. For example, you wouldn’t want clothing in loud, bold colors if the home is mostly neutrals and pastels. Then again, if bold contrast is the look you’re going for, that’s fine! Just have an idea of how the final images will look in the home.” — Sabrina Guyton-Wright, @sgwphoto
4. Go for lighter colors.
“I tell my clients to avoid wearing black as it always seems to show lint. I advise them to dress in lighter colors for a softer look, and that layering and textures are great.” — Helen Don Photography, @its.helendon
5. Get comfy.
“I tell my newborn photography clients that I want them to be as comfortable as possible and that they should wear what’s comfortable to them. People aren’t going to photograph well if they are uncomfortable!” — Cheryl Cagle Photography, @cheryl_cagle_photo
6. Wear neutrals.
“I always tell my clients to wear neutral clothing for their newborn photo sessions, because it helps avoid color casts on their skin. This is a must for my sessions since I only use natural window light.” — Katharine Vogel Photographer, @katharinevogel
7. Incorporate textures.
“When I’m photographing newborn babies, I love to bring in the element of texture to add a three dimensional effect to the images. Neutral clothing rich in texture, like lacy tops, chunky sweaters, and thick knits, work so well for newborn photos because they are timeless.” — D’Ann McCormick Boal, Smitten & Swoon Photography, @smittenandswoon
8. Take inspiration from home decor style.
“I like to work with the colors in the client’s home. If their house has more natural tones, then we go with a softer palette that compliments those colors. If the client has more of an eclectic style, then we play on that with some brighter pops of color and textures to help complement their home and personality.” — Jamie Rubeis Photography, @jamierubeisphoto
9. For new moms, look for clothing that moves and flows.
“I always prefer fabric that moves or has texture. Women who have just delivered a baby do not feel like the most beautiful versions of themselves (although they should). Fabric that moves and flows is a flattering option, especially when choosing ivories and whites for your color choice. Textures are also wonderful, as they add visual appeal but don’t distract the viewer. I also love the look of a dress on new moms. Instead of a fitted maternity dress, choose one with movement. Think maternal, classic and beautiful flow.” — Julie Kulbago Photography, @julie_kulbago_photography
10. Dads, roll up those sleeves.
“I love to see dads in a button-up shirt and will often ask that he roll up the sleeves. There’s something so tender about skin to skin with baby, and I like the casualness and intimacy is adds to the images.” — Amy Murgatroyd Portraits + Films, @amymurgatroydportraitsandfilms
11. Skip the graphic tees.
“I ask that my clients stray from graphic tees, as they can often be distracting and take away from the overall image. Funny words and phrases are fine in limited capacity (because, who knows, maybe it will one day tell the story of this time period) but only for a few shots. I want the story to be about the connection between baby and parents. Rather than reading the words “my mom loves me” on a shirt, I want my clients to actually see the love in the photograph.” — Sabrina Guyton-Wright, @sgwphoto
12. Limit prints and patterns.
“To coordinate the entire family’s wardrobe for their newborn photo session, I always recommend that no more than two people wear a print or pattern. I find that more than this can be too busy.” — Chelsey Hill, @chelseyhillphotography
13. Make it personal.
“I always like to ask the parents if there is anything that is personal to them that they want to incorporate into their session. This family had a friend who actually hand made a bassinet for their new little one. It was gorgeous and I love adding personal items that means something to the family. I want them to remember it for years to come.” — Erica Williams, Woodsy Wonders Photography, @woodsywondersphoto
14. Photographers, consider having dresses on hand.
“Photographers should consider having a selection of boutique style dresses for moms. This is a huge benefit to both you and your client. It takes the stress off of your client, who is most likely exhausted and stressed, and the perk for you is that you get to control the color and style of the dresses. Cohesive portfolio and happy clients — win!
“Plus, you don’t have to spend a fortune. Start by looking online for sale dresses in mostly mediums and a few larges. Medium sized dresses can be clipped in back for smaller moms or left open in back for larger moms.
“Here are a few places to look: Local boutiques, Anthropologie, BHLDN, Wren & Ivory, Filliboo, Pink Blush.” — Julie Kulbago Photography, @julie_kulbago_photography
What to wear for newborn fresh 48 photos
15. Make it easy for new moms.
“For hospital newborn fresh 48 sessions, I recommend that mamas wear a neutral-colored crossover robe (grey is my preferred color). This makes it easy on mamas who just gave birth so that they don’t have to put on an outfit. A soft robe with a waist tie is relatively flattering for any body type. The crossover design is also easy for breastfeeding, so if the baby needs to feed, which happens at almost every session, the new mom doesn’t have to stress about changing outfits and the robe provides coverage if the mama wants privacy.” — Amy Dangerfield Photography, @amydangerfieldphotography
16. Keep it simple for baby.
“For babies, I recommend that they wear just a diaper and a swaddle. I always want to get shots of baby in just a diaper and I don’t want to have to undress a brand new baby and risk overstimulating the newborn. I ask the parents to bring any special swaddles they would like to include in the newborn photos, and I always bring a swaddle as a gift as well in case they only have the hospital swaddle.” — Amy Dangerfield Photography
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