A comprehensive guide to what to wear for your in-home newborn photography session
Welcome to the sometimes exciting, but mostly challenging world of figuring out what to wear! Don’t worry I’ve got you covered. Let’s do this together!
As a natural light family & newborn photographer, I’m here to help you with real tips and inspiration to ensure you and your family look and feel your best during our session.
From wardrobe coordination to keeping it simple, let’s dive into the details of what to wear for your newborn session in the greater DC and Northern Virginia areas.
By following these style tips, you’ll not only look fantastic but also create a harmonious and visually pleasing family portrait that emphasizes the beauty of your newborn. Let the love and joy of your family shine through in every frame!
Prioritize Mom’s outfit first, and then coordinate your family around that style.
Explore my complimentary client wardrobe to use or peruse for inspiration: Client Wardrobe.
Opt for free-flowing & textured clothing items for a romantic, calming, and elegant feel.
Sleeves are flattering and add a touch of sophistication for Mom’s.
What to avoid: Anything you feel uncomfortable in, form fitting clothing, and neon or bright reds/oranges.
Authenticity shines through in photos, so be true to your style and comfort.
Embrace your personal style whether it aligns with a flowy long dress or loose, comfortable pants and tops.
The key is to feel confident, comfortable, and at ease! Trust me Mama’s, you will love your photos even more if you all feel this way!
Focus on coordination rather than identical outfits for a cohesive family look.
Stick to soft neutrals like creams, whites, grays, camel/khakis, pastels and earth tones.
Soft, neutral tones create a soothing and timeless feel.
Consider textures like knits, sweater, linen, or cozy blankets to add depth to images.
What to avoid: Neon colors, bright reds/oranges
Keep dad’s attire simple with pants and a button-down, henley tee, or sweater.
Opt for solids or subtle patterns, ensuring they don’t distract from the baby.
Rolled-up sleeves create a relaxed yet put-together look.
What to avoid: athletic/polo shirts, baseball halls, clothing with writing/logos, distracting patterns
Choose a white onesie, neutral colored swaddles/outfits, or knotted gowns for beautiful baby photos.
Texture photographs beautifully.
If opting for an outfit, make sure it’s newborn or preemie size.
Limit outfit changes to avoid disturbing the baby’s sleep. A great option is to plan for one outfit and one swaddle.
Remember to remove hair ties, digital/Apple watches, and phones from pockets to maintain a clean look.
For little girls in dresses, cover diapers/underwear with bloomers or bike shorts.
Bare feet are recommended; shoes are usually unnecessary for indoor sessions.
Ensure well-kept nails, removing chipped nail polish. You may be holding your little one in photos, and well-groomed hands add a polished touch.
Sarah Schmidt is a family photographer with a passion for helping families preserve their legacy through honest storytelling. She serves families living in the Northern Virginia and greater Washington, D.C. areas.