What to wear to a Newborn Photoshoot

Ashley Kipp | April 3rd, 2023

Photo taken by Megan Papachristou Photography

One of the first trips we made with our newborn was to a local photographer Megan Papachristou. These photos are usually taken within the baby's first two weeks of life, because they are sleepy and can easily be posed without getting too fussy. During my last few weeks of pregnancy, I did take some time to plan what we would wear for our Family Photo Session. We went with a neutral monochromatic style, incorporating lace for some textural details. Here are some tips on how to plan for your own photoshoot:

#1. No printed outfit rule: Due to the trendy nature of prints, this is one of those occasions that you want to stay away from picking something that is printed because after time, the print will fall out of style. If you do want to incorporate some print into your photos, you can choose something that is classic and never goes out of style like polka dots or stripes. Even something with a very small fine print, where it might read as more of a solid from further away.

#2. Neutral in color palate: With the ever-changing colors within fashion, one way to make a picture last a lifetime is to choose a color palate for your clothing that is neutral, this can easily mix and match within your family. They also keep everything simple, without adding complexity to your photos, so the focus is on you and not what you are wearing. I am a very visual person, so color palates come naturally to me. If you have a hard time putting these together, I recommend an online search of a neutral color palate to help you find pieces that flow well together. Here is an example of a great neutral palate that will guide you on choosing your outfits.

#3. Soft and cozy: You will be holding your newborn in these, so you want to pick something that is soft and comfortable and moves with your body and not something that is made from rigid fabrics that will show wrinkles in your photos. Here is where you can incorporate texture within your story. Good examples of this include fur, lace, leather or a chunky knitted sweater. These are all timeless fabrications that read as solids but can add depth to your color story.

#4. Bring Options: The worst thing you can do is just bring one option and when you get to the studio your newborn accidently makes a mess or stains your option. I would recommend bringing backup so that you can mix and match with what the newborn is wearing just in case of any mishaps. You could also bring in some layers like a vest, jacket, belt, or heirloom accessory. Something really sweet would be a vintage piece that is passed down by a grandparent, or has meaning in your family.

You can also find some color palates that are not neutral but have a tight color story within the warm or cold color family. Here are some other examples that I put together to give some inspiration with textures and how you can mix them into your choices when picking out your family outfits.

Hope this helps you come up with some fresh new ideas for your next family photoshoot.