Planning outfits for newborn photos can be tough. After all, you have to coordinate you and your partners outfits, and now the baby also! When choosing what you and baby should wear for newborn photos, it's important to keep in mind that the baby should be the focus. You’ll want to be mindful that your outfits and accessories complement the baby.

To help you plan and get ready for your newborn session, we’ve compiled our six top tips when choosing what to wear!

Babies have sensitive skin, so consider soft clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. These will also be great options if it’s warm outside as they can help keep your baby cool and comfortable.

Consider the season for both yourselves and the baby, and make sure you are all dressed for the same season. If you are comfortable and feel confident, it will shine through in your photos! If it's cold out, you'll want to dress your baby in warm and cozy layers. In the warmer months be sure to choose lightweight and breathable clothing. We recommend dressing yourselves in a dress and chinos or some sort of tailored pant with a collared shirt for a more polished look. Long, flowy dresses photograph beautifully, as well as heels which tend to elongate your legs. If you’re most comfortable in light denim and a crisp t-shirt that’s fine too! It’s important to note that if you look your best you will feel your best.

You’ll also want to make sure your shoes are clean, clothing is ironed, and everything is well-fitting as the camera tends to pick up on everything.

We tend to recommend selecting lighter tones and more muted shades. For newborn photos especially, we find that whites photograph very fresh and crisp. Keeping it neutral helps keep the focus on the baby. This is especially why we recommend staying away from pops of color and bold patterns for this type of photo session. If photographing on a beach or at a park, consider the earth tones around you being photographed. Ivory, khaki, white, blush and pale blue are the way to go, for both you and baby!

Simple is best when it comes to newborn photos, so that the focus is on the baby’s natural beauty. We recommend simple clothing & jewelry, and simple accessories. Keeping colors soft and simple create a serene atmosphere. It also helps to capture the calm and joy of these first days with your baby.

Try layering your baby's clothing by starting out with a simple onesie, and adding a soft and breathable blanket or swaddle for extra warmth and comfort as you continue your session. This will provide comfort for the baby, as well as beautiful photos with all different style shots. The additional layering of a swaddle or blanket will also provide warmth in the styling of the photos. Depending on the season, bringing layering pieces for yourselves as well can give you the option of multiple looks throughout your session, without having to fully change your outfits.

Don’t forget the accessories! A beautiful headband, pair of shoes, hat, personalized blanket, stuffed animals or simple toy is a great way to add a sweet touch to your baby's photos. You can also add in a sign with their birth details and name.

Don’t Forget!

Lastly, we’ve compiled a list of items to not forget. Although your session should last no more than an hour, we always recommend bringing the following to make sure you’re as comfortable as can be.

-Water & snacks: Always pack a little snack or make sure to eat before your photos, and definitely bring some water for warmer days, especially on the beach! Make sure you bring a bottle, pacifier if needed, extra change of clothes and some diapers for baby!

-Flats or flip flops: If you’re wearing heels, you might find it most comfortable to slip into flat shoes when walking to different spots in between photos.

-Hair brush, small mirror & touch up make-up: As part of feeling and looking you’re best, we always recommend bringing a little makeup bag for you to be able to touch-up your hair and makeup should you need to. You’ll be happy you did, and it’s good to bring just incase!

-Props: Don’t forget the accessories or any special props and details you’d like to include. But remember to keep it simple!

We photograph newborn sessions all year round both in-home and on location, and have a list of our favorite places if you need some recommendations. If you’re looking to plan your newborn session, please contact us here. We look forward to photographing this precious time in your lives, welcoming your newest addition to the family!