What to Wear for Your Newborn Photos – A Guide for Parents
So, you just had a baby. Congratulations! Now that you’ve mastered the fine art of surviving on two hours of sleep and memorizing every little wrinkle on that sweet newborn face, it’s time for something truly special—your newborn photo session.
As a maternity and newborn photographer here in Central Newfoundland, I get this question a lot - What should we wear? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
A Little Throwback to My First Newborn Session
Let’s rewind to when my first baby was born, and I was the one in front of the camera. I showed up in a white and blue shirt (solid choice, but let’s be honest, it wasn’t the most thought-out look), and my husband? A T-shirt. Classic dad move. At the time, I didn’t put much thought into it, but looking back, I totally get why outfit planning is key for a polished, timeless newborn session.
Now, let’s talk about what YOU should wear so that you can love these photos for years to come.
The Golden Rule: Comfort Meets Style
Newborn sessions are all about soft snuggles and natural moments. You don’t want to be fussing with itchy fabrics or stiff outfits. Think cozy, neutral, and timeless—something that enhances the sweetness of your new baby, not distracts from it.
The Power of Neutrals
Whites, Creams, and Soft Tones
If you want that soft, airy, dreamy feel, stick with neutrals. Whites, creams, and light greys photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your baby. They also make your images feel classic and timeless (aka, no “what was I thinking?!” moments when looking back in 10 years). Soft, flowy dresses for moms and light button-ups or sweaters for dads are a win.
Textures play a huge role in making neutrals shine. Think delicate lace, soft cotton, and cozy knits. Layers can add depth without being distracting—like a light cardigan over a dress or a soft linen scarf. For dads, a subtle textured fabric like linen or a ribbed knit can add interest without overwhelming the simplicity of the color palette.
Accessories should be kept minimal and natural—dainty jewelry, a simple hair clip, or a soft headband for moms can complement the look without taking attention away from the star of the show (your baby!). And don’t forget about shoes if they’ll be visible—neutral or barefoot is always a safe bet.
Classic and Moody
Black, Deep Hues, and Earthy Tones
Want something a little moodier? Deep earthy tones like forest green, rich rust, navy, or even black can add warmth and depth to your images. These colors work beautifully against a neutral backdrop, giving a cozy, intimate vibe while still keeping things stylish.
Textures like velvet, wool, or corduroy can add richness to these deeper tones, making the outfits feel more intentional. Moms can opt for a deep-hued maxi dress or a fitted sweater with flowy skirts, while dads can wear a dark button-up with a complementary earthy-toned blazer or knit sweater. For added visual interest, layering with subtle patterns like plaids or textured knits can create dimension without overwhelming the frame.
Bold and Beautiful
Pops of Color for a Vibrant Look
If neutrals aren’t your thing and you love color, don’t be afraid to go for it! Jewel tones like emerald green, deep burgundy, mustard yellow, and cobalt blue can look amazing, especially when paired with softer tones for balance. The trick is to avoid loud patterns or neon colors that might pull attention away from your baby.
To make sure bold colors work harmoniously, try incorporating them in a way that doesn’t compete with the baby’s soft, delicate features. Moms can wear a rich-colored wrap dress or a flowing maxi skirt, while dads can stick with a coordinating but more subdued tone to balance the frame. Accessories, like a statement necklace or earrings in complementary shades, can tie the look together beautifully without overpowering the scene.
Siblings
Coordinating Without Over-Matching
If big brother or sister is joining the session, keep their outfits simple and complementary. A little girl in a soft dress or a cozy knit romper, or a big brother in a neutral-toned sweater and pants, can be adorable. If you’re feeling adventurous, a fun pop of color can work—just avoid cartoon characters or anything too busy.
To help siblings look cohesive in the family portraits, try dressing them in variations of the same color palette rather than exact matching outfits. Think about different textures and shades that blend well together—like a light beige romper for the baby, a dusty blue dress for a sister, and a soft brown sweater for a brother.
For a playful yet polished look, mix in subtle patterns like gingham or floral prints in muted tones. Avoid clothing with distracting text or large logos—keeping it simple helps the focus remain on the love and connection between your children.
What About Dad?
Dads, you’re important in these photos too! A simple fitted T-shirt, Henley, or button-up in a neutral or earthy tone is always a safe bet. Stick with textures like linen or knit for added interest without overwhelming the image.
Bonus Tips for a Stress-Free Session
Avoid big logos, crazy patterns, or neon colors.
Stick to soft, breathable fabrics for everyone’s comfort.
Layers can add texture (like a cardigan over a dress or a soft scarf).
If in doubt, send me a photo—I’m always happy to help you plan!
At the end of the day, your newborn session is about capturing love, connection, and those sweet first few days. Whether you’re drawn to soft neutrals, moody deep hues, or a bold pop of color, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and happy.
Ready to book your newborn session in Central Newfoundland? Send me a message and let’s create some beautiful photos together! (And don’t worry—I promise to give you better wardrobe advice than I gave myself the first time around!)