You have a brand new baby – let’s not waste energy stressing about your family’s photoshoot outfits. Because guess what – this is not a fashion show.
This is a “you just had a baby and everyone’s tired but also wildly in love” situation. You likely wish you looked a little less tired and swollen but I PROMISE YOU – someday you will wish you were back in this moment, and will be so happy you documented it.
So if you are feeling overwhelmed by diapers, feedings, and the fact that time no longer exists, take a deep breath. What you wear for your newborn photos does not need to be complicated — promise.
Baby: Simple Is Best
For your newborn, we usually do one simple outfit and then some photos with baby just in a swaddle. Why? Because those tiny details — flaky skin, squishy cheeks, curled toes, fuzzy shoulders — are the good stuff.
Overly complicated outfits tend to hide all of that. Simple lets your baby look like… well, your baby.
Neutral colors, soft fabrics, and easy-on-easy-off pieces work best. And yes, if baby pees on it immediately, that’s extremely on brand, and totally fine.
Moms: Dresses Are Great (But Not Mandatory)
Moms often look amazing in a comfortable flowy dress (think almost nightgown-ish). But let me be very clear: you do not need to wear a dress if that’s not your thing.
You can absolutely wear a cozy sweater or top. Anything you are comfortable in – that is most important. The goal is to feel like yourself, not like you’re wearing a costume you can’t wait to rip off.
Color Palette: Neutrals Are Your Friend
If there’s one guideline I’ll gently push, it’s this: neutral colors photograph beautifully.
Think:
- Cream
- Beige
- Soft browns
- Warm grays
- Muted earthy tones (olive green, mauve)
These colors keep the focus on connection and emotion — not on loud patterns or logos screaming for attention. And neutrals mix well together, which means less coordinating stress for the whole family.
But for real…Comfort > Everything
If you can’t sit down comfortably, bend over, or snuggle your baby without adjusting your outfit every five seconds… it’s not the one.
Newborn sessions are slow, relaxed, and snuggly. Comfort wins every time.
Don’t Want to Dress Up? Pajamas Are Fair Game.
Truly. Honestly. I love a cozy, lived-in vibe.
If your family wants to show up in soft, neutral pajamas, that can be adorable and incredibly real. Think calm morning-at-home energy. Matching or coordinating tones? Cute. Bare feet? Even better.
This is your life right now — messy, cozy, emotional, beautiful — and your photos should feel like that.
Final Reminder
There is no “right” outfit. There is only you, your baby, and this tiny season that somehow goes way too fast.
Wear what makes you feel comfortable. Wear what feels like home. And trust me — the love does the rest.
If you want help picking outfits, I’m always happy to guide you. And the truth is: no matter what, it will be perfect.
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