What to Wear for Newborn Photos: A Complete Guide for Parents
Bringing home a newborn is an exciting and overwhelming time, and planning for a newborn photography session might feel like just another task on an already full plate. One of the most common questions I get from new parents is: “What should we wear for our newborn photos?”
The good news? Keeping it simple is key. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what to wear for your newborn photography session, including outfit ideas for parents, siblings, and baby, along with tips on colors, fabrics, and styling.
1. The Basics: Keep It Soft, Simple & Timeless
When choosing outfits for your newborn session, the goal is to create timeless, beautiful images that focus on your baby and the connection between your family members.
✅ Solid colors work best – Soft, neutral tones like white, cream, beige, gray, pastels, and light earth tones create a warm, airy, and timeless feel in photos.
✅ Earth and Jewel tones add richness – Deep, saturated colors like emerald green, sapphire blue, burgundy, and mustard gold work beautifully for a more dramatic, rich color palette.
✅ Avoid bold patterns & logos – Stripes, busy patterns, and large logos can distract from the baby.
✅ Soft & comfortable fabrics – Flowy, lightweight fabrics photograph well and create a gentle, organic feel.
2. What to Wear: Parents
For parents, the key is comfort and simplicity. You’ll be holding and cuddling your baby, so choose clothes that feel good and allow for natural movement.
✔ Outfit Ideas for Moms
A flowing, beautiful dress or a soft blouse with leggings/jeans.
Flowy tops or dresses with texture (lace, cotton, linen) add depth without overpowering the image.
Avoid tight or structured clothing that feels restrictive.
Soft knit cardigans work well for layering and add warmth to winter newborn sessions.
Bonus Tip: You’re still healing postpartum. Choose a dress or top that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Pick your outfit first, build everyone else around you.
Some of my favorite websites for outfits for sessions are:
https://balticborn.com
https://www.joyfolie.com
https://www.pinkblushmaternity.com
✔ Outfit Ideas for Dads
Neutral-colored button-down shirts, Henley shirts, or soft t-shirts.
Earth tones like tan, olive, gray, or soft blues pair well with neutral backgrounds, but items to compliment your partner’s vibe.
Fitted (but not too tight) clothing looks clean and put together.
Avoid: Neon colors, busy patterns, or stiff dress shirts that don’t allow for relaxed movement.
3. What to Wear: Siblings
If your baby has older siblings (or fur siblings), including them in the session is a great way to capture the love and bond between them.
✔ Outfit Ideas for Big Brother
Simple neutral t-shirts (white, beige, light gray) with jeans or soft pants.
Suspenders are an adorable accessory if you’d like to add some flair.
Sweaters or cozy cardigans for winter sessions.
✔ Outfit Ideas for Big Sister
Soft flowy dresses in neutral or pastel colors.
Knit or linen rompers for a natural, organic look.
Barefoot is best for a cozy, at-home feel.
🚫 Avoid: Sibling outfits that are too formal or stiff. Keeping them comfortable ensures happy, natural smiles!
Some go-to sites for kids:
https://www.joyfolie.com
https://www.janieandjack.com
https://hopeandhenry.com
4. What to Wear: Baby
Newborns are perfect just as they are, so you don’t need a lot of clothing. The focus should be on their tiny features, expressions, and connection with your family.
✔ Best Outfits for Baby
Simple Wraps & Swaddles – Soft, neutral wraps photograph beautifully and keep your baby warm. (Don’t worry, I bring wraps whether we are doing posed or lifestyle!)
Knit Rompers or Onesies – Avoid bright colors or cartoon characters—solid, muted tones work best.
Diaper Only (for Lifestyle Sessions) – Some of the sweetest images are simply baby in a diaper, wrapped in a blanket.
Textured Blankets – If you have a favorite baby blanket, incorporate it into the session for added warmth and personalization.
🚫 Avoid:
Clothing with strong patterns or wording ("Mommy's Little Hero" is cute, but not ideal for timeless photos).
Bulky clothing that makes it hard to see baby’s delicate features.
5. Outfit Color Palette Ideas
✔ Soft Neutrals for a Light & Airy Look
🤍 White, Cream, Beige, Soft Gray, Light Taupe
✔ Warm Earthy Tones for a Cozy Feel
🌿 Olive Green, Rust, Warm Brown, Muted Mustard
✔ Pastel Tones for a Soft, Dreamy Effect
💙 Soft Blue, Blush Pink, Dusty Rose, Light Sage
✔ Classic & Elegant Darker Tones
🖤 Charcoal, Deep Navy, Soft Black, Deep Burgundy
6. Final Tips for a Stress-Free Newborn Session
Keep it simple. The more comfortable you are, the more natural and relaxed your photos will feel.
Lay out your outfits the night before. This prevents last-minute stress.
Don’t worry about shoes! Most in-home newborn sessions are done barefoot for a cozy, intimate feel.
Avoid matching outfits – Instead, opt for coordinating tones that complement each other.
Wear something that makes you feel like YOU. New parents are already juggling so much—your outfit should be one less thing to stress about. If jeans are your thing, do it. Sweaters and skirts, flowing dresses, I want you to feel beautiful and comfortable.
7. Why Outfit Choices Matter in Newborn Photography
Your clothing choices set the tone and mood of your newborn photos. Well-planned outfits help:
✔ Keep the focus on your baby and your family’s connection.
✔ Ensure your photos feel classic and timeless for years to come.
✔ Make your newborn session feel stress-free and effortless.
By following this simple guide, you’ll be prepared to look and feel your best during your newborn session—without overthinking it.
8. Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?
If you’re looking for a Denver metro newborn photographer who specializes in in-home and lifestyle newborn photography, I’d love to help capture this special time for your family.