Preparing for newborn photos can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re running on little sleep. The good news? Choosing what to wear doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few simple guidelines, you can create a timeless, cohesive look that keeps the focus exactly where it belongs: on your baby and the connection you share.

Below is my go-to advice for what photographs beautifully in newborn sessions.

Keep It Simple & Neutral

Soft, neutral tones photograph best and never go out of style. Think:

Creams, whites, beiges
Soft grays
Warm taupes
Muted pastels

These colors reflect light beautifully and keep images feeling calm, clean, and timeless. Avoid bold colors, neon tones, or heavy patterns—they tend to pull attention away from your baby.

Choose Comfortable, Flowy Pieces

Newborn sessions are slow, cozy, and relaxed. Choose clothing you feel comfortable sitting, standing, and snuggling in.

Great options include:

Flowy dresses or maxi dresses
Soft knit sweaters
Simple blouses with movement
Neutral cardigans or layers

Comfort shows in photos—when you feel good, it translates naturally on camera.

Avoid Logos & Busy Patterns

Logos, graphics, and bold prints can date your images quickly and distract from the emotion of the moment. Solid colors or subtle textures (like ribbed knits or linen) photograph beautifully without overwhelming the frame.

Coordinate—Don’t Match

Instead of everyone wearing the exact same outfit, aim for coordination.

Tips for parents and siblings:

Stick to the same neutral color palette
Mix textures (knit, denim, linen)
Keep everyone in soft, complementary tones

This creates visual interest while keeping the overall look cohesive and natural.

What Should Baby Wear?

Less is more when it comes to newborns.

Some of my favorite options:

A simple white or neutral onesie
A soft wrap or swaddle
Bare skin with a diaper cover

I often provide wraps and simple accessories, so no need to overthink it. Your baby is perfect just as they are.

What to Skip

To keep your session timeless, I recommend avoiding:

Bright or bold colors
Large patterns or graphics
Stiff or structured fabrics
Distracting accessories

These elements can take attention away from the connection and emotion we’re capturing.

Final Tip: Choose Timeless Over Trendy

When you look back at your newborn photos years from now, you’ll want them to feel just as beautiful and relevant as the day they were taken. Neutral, classic pieces ensure your images stand the test of time.

If you’re ever unsure about an outfit, feel free to send me photos—I’m always happy to help you choose something that photographs beautifully.

✨ Ready to book your newborn session or have questions about preparing? I’d love to help you plan a relaxed, meaningful experience from start to finish.

What to Wear for a Newborn Photography Session