What to wear for lifestyle newborn photos at home. - Western Mass Newborn Photographer

Planning what to wear for your newborn session ahead of baby’s arrival eliminates unneeded stress.  It also fits right in with the nesting stage, organizing, prepping, and imagining your sweet newborn in the outfit you’ve chosen.  There will be plenty to do once baby is home, so you’ll be glad outfits have already been decided.  

Dress for put-together casual, and comfort over formal.   

Start planning with your outfit.  Your body is creating a new human and has been through a lot of changes, so go easy.  Dress yourself so you feel confident and beautiful. Try a flowy dress, or comfortable leggings and a cozy sweater.  Avoid jeans and clothing that can be restricting.  If nursing, plan to wear a shirt or dress that makes it easy.  

Dads seem to default to flannel shirts for family photos, but a solid color, fitted shirt is best for photos at home. Dresses for little girls are pretty, easy and can add movement to your images while crew neck shirts are comfortable for dads and boys.    Matching shirts can be fun for new siblings, but have another shirt or layer available for variety.  

Choose neutral colors 

Neutral colors don’t steal focus from your family.  They match the relaxed vibe of a photo shoot in the comfort of your home.  Colors like cream, grey, and white contribute a fresh, airy feel to your session.  Add color with mauve, navy, rust or sage.  All beautiful muted tones that photograph well.

Avoid graphics, neon, black and bright colors (i.e. yellow, orange, red, coral and aqua).  Also avoid patterns that could clash (i.e. red flannel and pink floral) 

Comfortable fit

Make sure outfits fit well.  Try on baby’s outfit beforehand to make sure they’re not overwhelmed by their onesie.  Also put aside a neutral and/or a patterned swaddle for the day of your session.  

Accessories should be minimal. 

Bows, bonnets or hats are welcome for baby and soooo adorable, but with the same color, fit and pattern considerations. 

The best choice for footwear is bare feet, so it’s the perfect time for a pedicure.  You probably can’t reach your toes right now anyway!  Socks with logos and patterns don’t photograph well.  If insisting on shoes or socks, they should be clean and coordinate with the outfit. 

So dress in a comfortable style and fit, and choose neutrals! I’m honored to capture this special time for your family, so you can slow down and take it all in.

See you soon!