If you are wondering what to wear for newborn photos, you are in luck! It is easier than you think to find the perfect outfits for your entire family when you know what photographs well. After being a professional newborn photographer for the last eight years, I have narrowed down exactly what to wear to feel comfortable and look put together!
Most of my lifestyle newborn sessions are photographed indoors, specially in client’s homes. Every client’s home is unique to them with variable decor, paint color, and archietecture; it is part of what makes a lifestyle newborn session so special! The focal point of your photos should be your family, and what you wear for newborn photos can change the overall look of your photos.
I have a few simple tips, from color palettes to staple pieces, that will keep your family the focal point of your newborn photos and help you look your best.
General Tips:
- Neutrals, neutrals, neutrals: Neutral colors compliment all skin tones and provide a light and airy feel no matter the location within your home. You likely already have many of these pieces in your wardrobe, so it is one less thing you have to go and buy!
- Off white: I always suggest having your newborn in an off-white onesie or outfit! It allows them to be the main focus, and you do not have to worry about clashing with any family member’s outfit.
- Limit patterns and big logos: This is a general rule of thumb, but all rules are meant to be broken right? A small, delicate pattern can be beautiful if the color is neutral or matches your nursery!
- Complimentary colors: A good place to start in choosing colors for your outfits is to choose a color palette that has colors that compliment one another, rather than too many of the same or similar colors. Here is a good place to start:
How should I dress for newborn photos?
- Start with your outfit! As a new mom, it is important that you feel as comfortable and confident during your newborn session. I have found most mom’s feel most confident in a nap dress, or something similar, because of the fitted bodice and relaxed waist.
- Neutrals are best! Creams, tans, and muted pastels compliment all skin tones and keep the focus on your family, not what you are wearing.
- Comfort is key! Being postpartum, it is extremely important you prioritize your comfort during your recovery. Most moms find comfort in wearing a high waist dress or a sweater and jeans.
What should my baby wear for newborn photos?
- Off white onesie: The goal is to make your precious baby the first thing you notice in the photos. Starting with a neutral onesie will give you timeless photos with true-to-life skin tones.
- Add a pop of color: You can always tie in colors from other outfits or the nursery with a bow, boots, or toy
- Change it up with a swaddle: Swaddles are an easy way to add a new color or pattern into the mix
- Prepare for an outfit change: I have fallen in love with the custom name sweaters! You can also have a long jumper that hides their toes, but is more realistic to what your baby wears day to day.
What should my husband wear for newborn photos?
- Compliment your outfit: Once you choose what you are going to wear, find neutrals that will compliment but not match. If your dress is cream, have your husband wear tan pants with a grey top or maybe even an off-white button up.
- Start with the top: choose a cream, sand, light grey or off-white depending on what would look best with your outfit.
- Find the pants to match: Most dad’s have a pair tan or gray pants that provide a bright and airy feel.
- Ditch the socks: Unless you are planning to wear shoes, bare feet always look better than socks.
What should my older kids wear for newborn photos?
- Compliment, not match: The easiest way to do this is to merge colors from the other outfits, or pull out colors from the nursery!
- Cohesive feel: If you are wearing a dress, have your little girls wear a dress as well! Similar, if your husband is wearing a sweater and pants, have your son wear something similar.
In conclusion, when it comes down to deciding what to wear for your newborn photos it all comes down to:
- Choosing your outfit first
- Sticking with neutrals
- Finding colors that compliment, but not match
- Feeling comfortable in what you are wearing
Caitlyn with Capturing Simplicity Photography specializes in lifestyle newborn photography in the Indianapolis area. She provides a joyful and relaxing experience while capturing the authentic love within your family.
If you are interested in having Capturing Simplicity Photography capture your newborn session, inquire here.
