As a photographer who specializes in newborn photography (Bentonville, AR), one of the most common questions I get is, “What should we wear for our session?” Wardrobe plays a huge role in creating beautiful, timeless newborn photos, and I’m here to make the process easy for you! Whether you’re planning a studio or in-home session, these tips will help you coordinate the perfect outfits while keeping everyone comfortable and photo-ready.
1. Start with Mom’s Outfit
Mom gets to choose first! Pick something that makes you feel beautiful and comfortable. A simple, flowy dress is often the best choice, especially if you’re nursing. Soft, neutral tones or muted colors tend to photograph well and keep the focus on your connection with your baby. Once you’ve selected your outfit, you can coordinate everyone else’s clothing around it.
2. Keep Colors Cohesive
Rather than matching exactly, aim for a cohesive color palette. If your dress has multiple colors, pull those shades into your family’s outfits. For example, if your dress has soft blues and earthy tones, your partner could wear a chambray shirt with khakis, and your older child could wear a beige or rust-colored outfit to tie it all together. If you choose a solid color dress, incorporate that hue into small details, like a headband for your baby or a subtle pattern on your toddler’s shirt.
3. Dress Baby in Something Simple
For newborns, less is more. A simple diaper cover, a white onesie, or a soft swaddle keeps the focus on your baby’s tiny features and cuddly moments. Avoid outfits with too many layers, as babies are most comfortable when they aren’t fussy or overheating. If we’re doing an in-home signature session, we might also capture some natural moments with baby in just a diaper for a relaxed, lifestyle feel.
4. Consider Comfort and Movement
You’ll be snuggling, holding, and moving around with your baby, so comfort is key. Make sure everyone’s outfits allow for easy movement and don’t require constant adjusting. Avoid clothing that wrinkles easily, and for toddlers, steer clear of polos (they rarely lay right in photos!). Instead, opt for soft knits, button-downs, or one-piece rompers that stay in place.
5. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Gone are the days of everyone in identical outfits! Instead, think about balance and variety. Mix different textures, tones, and styles that complement each other rather than match exactly. Layers like cardigans, soft sweaters, or linen shirts add visual interest while keeping the look effortless and natural.
Bonus Tip: Plan Ahead & Ask for Help!
Choosing outfits in advance will make your session day stress-free. If you need extra guidance, I’m happy to help! When you book a newborn photography session with me, I offer wardrobe guidance and custom style boards to make outfit planning a breeze. My goal is to create a relaxed experience that results in stunning, heartfelt images of your growing family.
If you’re expecting and looking for newborn photography in Bentonville, I’d love to document this sweet season for you! Reach out to book your session today.
Where did you find those beautiful models? 😍
Exquisite work!