A Practical Guide to Dressing the Whole Family for Your Lifestyle Newborn Photos
As a Maryland newborn photographer, one of the most common questions I hear is: “What should we wear for our newborn photos?” It makes sense. You’ve been preparing for this session for weeks, maybe even months. Most moms start thinking about outfits while still pregnant—shopping with their future photos in mind, sometimes even adding dresses and keepsake blankets to the baby registry.
This guide will help you feel confident, coordinated, and calm as you plan what to wear for your in-home newborn session.
Why Timeless Wardrobe Choices Matter
Your newborn session is a visual time capsule—an heirloom in the making. These are the photographs that get passed down to your baby’s grandchildren, tucked into albums and frames for decades to come. That’s why we lean into simplicity: soft light, timeless tones, and honest connection that never goes out of style. I always recommend outfits that feel classic and understated, avoiding trends that could date the images. Your future self will thank you.
Color Palette and Pattern Advice
Soft neutrals—like ivory, oatmeal, pale grey, soft blush, muted blue, or sage green—are flattering on all skin tones and photograph beautifully in natural light. These colors blend well with most home décor and keep the focus on emotion and connection.
To build a cohesive look, start by choosing one or two core colors—like soft blue and cream—and then dress each family member in a variation of that palette. Mix light and dark tones, layer textures, and incorporate soft patterns like stripes or simple florals to add depth. Think of soft textures—like knits or linen—as another kind of pattern that brings warmth and interest. The goal is harmony, not uniformity—coordinate, don’t match.
Styling Tips for Each Family Member
The following tips will help you plan for your newborn session.
For the Newborn
Simple is best. Your baby’s features and expressions are the stars of these photos, and the right outfit lets that shine.
Here are my go-to recommendations:
- A plain, long-sleeve white onesie (I bring both newborn and 0–3 sizes to each session)
- A soft swaddle in a pale knit, cream muslin, or solid neutral tone (I’ll also bring one or two)
- Think about heirloom pieces (a brush, a stuffie, or a blanket) this can be a very simple prop to include so that when they pass it down to their kids or grandkids, they have a photo of where the tradition started
- Diaper-only photos wrapped in a cozy, neutral blanket or bloomer
- Name blankets can be used for a few shots, but keep timeless options front and center
- Stick with true newborn sizing—0–3 month clothing is often too loose on a two-week-old. If you think your baby might be small, it doesn’t hurt to have at least one premie option
- Soft colors like cream, pale blue, muted green, or blush work well with baby skin tones
- One option should show the feet! We love those tiny toes!
For Mom
Your role in these portraits is tender and powerful—you are the center of connection. The right outfit can help you feel grounded and radiant in your postpartum season.
Here are a few styling tips to help:
- Choose something that is forgiving and will make you feel beautiful while you are still at the very beginning of recovery
- Flowy dresses, soft knit tops, or wrap styles that skim the body are flattering and comfortable.
- Think about the colors of your nursery and using that as a place to find color pallet inspiration. You want to work in harmony with your nursery or home
- Fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, or chiffon drape well and feel soft against baby’s skin.
- Stick to neutral or pastel tones to keep the look clean and calming.
- Hair and makeup should feel soft and natural. Loose waves, soft curls, or your natural style
- Makeup can be minimal: dewy skin, a touch of mascara, and a neutral lip is often enough.
- If you’re self-conscious about your postpartum body (and you’re not alone), reach out—I’m always happy to help choose something flattering and photogenic.
For Dad
Keep it simple and classic. A solid-colored t-shirt, henley, or sweater paired with chinos is perfect. Stick to soft neutrals (cream, grey, navy, olive) and avoid logos or bold prints. You might be sitting on your bed so you want something you can move in. Also, ditch the shoes and any tech style watches. As much as we love a polished look, this is also a cozy session.
For Siblings
Little ones look sweet in textured knits, linen rompers, or simple dresses. Skip neon colors, cartoon graphics, or anything stiff or uncomfortable. Soft blues, creams, blush, or muted pastels are lovely choices. For girls who are still in diapers, matching bloomers for under dresses is ideal.
For Pets
If your furry family member is joining, remove brightly colored collars. Choose a neutral collar (or none at all!) that blends with their fur or the family color palette. A neon orange safety collar will draw the eye in every frame.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Too much pattern or clashing tones: Stick to subtle prints and avoid everyone wearing bold or competing designs.
- Choosing the “cutest” baby outfit: Skip elaborate outfits that bunch up or hide baby’s features.
- Outfits that don’t fit: Remember, newborn clothes should fit snugly to show off that tiny size. Opt for true newborn sizes.
- Overthinking perfection: Embrace softness and simplicity. Real life is beautiful.
Preparing Your Home
You don’t need a picture-perfect house for beautiful photos—just a few small adjustments can make a big difference. Here’s how to get your space photo-ready without the stress:
- Focus your energy on the nursery. If it’s mostly set up, we’ll spend a good amount of time there. Open the shades and let in as much natural light as possible.
- For baby’s crib, select either a solid color (that contrasts your babies outfit) or a soft pattern like a floral or texture like muslin.
- Your bedroom or living room is usually the next best space for cozy, cuddly portraits. Feel free to send me photos ahead of time so I can help choose the rooms with the best light.
- In bedrooms, neutral bedding goes a long way. It reflects soft light, keeps the visual tone clean, and centers the focus on your family. A simple $40 white duvet cover and white sheets from Amazon are a great investment.
- Don’t worry about the whole house—just clear nightstands and clutter in our photo zones. Everything else can be tossed in a corner and out of sight!
Final Thoughts
The goal of your session is not to look perfect, but to feel connected. Your baby will be held, comforted, and admired. You’ll be in your own space, surrounded by meaning and memory. The right wardrobe helps these moments shine through.
If you have any questions or want help choosing pieces, I’m always happy to offer guidance before your session.
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