What to Wear for Your Newborn Family Photos

As a Lehigh Valley newborn photographer, one of the most common questions I get from new parents is: “What should we wear for our newborn family photos?” The answer is simpler than you might think- your connection with your baby is always more important than your outfit. Still, a little planning goes a long way toward creating timeless, beautiful images. This blog answers all those questions and will make you feel confident for choosing what to wear at your session.

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What to Wear to the Studio

If you’re preparing for a newborn photo shoot at my studio, here’s what I recommend:

For moms: Comfort is key. You’ll likely be waiting a little bit before it’s time for your newborn family photos, and you’ll want easy access if you’re nursing. Most moms bring their photo-ready outfit on a hanger and change right before we start the family portion of the session. A cozy nursing tank with a cardigan works great. Keep in mind that the studio is kept warm for baby’s comfort, so you don’t want to be sweating through a fancy outfit while you wait.

For siblings: I can’t stress this enough- bring their outfits along to change into at the studio. From snacks to car seats, kids find ways to get messy on the way over. Changing into their special outfit at the studio gets them excited and focused for their part in the session, especially for those precious sibling photos.

For dads: Comfort matters here, too. A grumpy dad is no one’s favorite photo accessory! Many dads bring their shirts to change into, especially if they’re wrangling siblings earlier in the session. Stick to breathable fabrics and neutral tones.

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Colors: What Looks Best in Newborn Family Photos

Choosing a color palette for family photos with your newborn doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Stick with tones that coordinate, but not match perfectly. Neutrals like grays, whites, and creams are always timeless. If you want a pop of color, think about subtle touches like a sweater in a soft pink or coordinating headbands for siblings and then I have wraps in almost every color we can choose to coordinate for the baby. If it’s a boy, light blues with navy is always a nice touch and looks great on everyone. For baby girls, a soft pink top for mom, a floral dress for big sister with little pops of pink and then a gray button down coordinates perfectly for dad.

As a seasoned Lehigh Valley children’s photographer, I’ve seen it all- and the outfits that photograph best are usually simple, cozy and coordinated without being too matchy-matchy.

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Textures & Themes: Dress for Comfort and Confidence

Mom, you just had a baby. Give yourself grace. Choose flowy dresses, oversized sweaters or maternity jeans. Don’t worry about tight tops or your midsection. We can even keep everything waist-up if you’d like!

Dad can go for a sweater, a clean button-down or a solid tee that feels like him. If he’s a hat guy, bring a special one, I’ll grab one sweet shot of him and baby wearing it. It makes for a great keepsake or gift.

Siblings should wear something they’re comfortable in. A dress, soft leggings or a tee with jeans are great. Bare feet are always a win for relaxed, lifestyle newborn sessions. Most of the time, their legs aren’t even in the frame during sibling shots.

Baby will be wrapped up in a snug wrap to ensure their safety and comfort while being handled by little hands and moving toddlers. The startle reflex is real and having baby wrapped up is the best way to capture the sweet moments between baby and siblings without them startling themselves awake.

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What About Shoes?

Here’s your permission to forget the shoes! For newborn family photography, footwear is rarely visible in the final images. Don’t stress about buying new shoes that will barely be seen. Bare feet, ballet flats, or clean sneakers are perfect.

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Connection Comes First

At the end of the day, your newborn and family photos are all about love, bonding and celebrating your new arrival. As your Lehigh Valley photographer, my goal is to document that joy in the most relaxed and beautiful way possible. So come as you are, bring your outfit changes and trust me to take care of the rest.

You love your little one fiercely and that’s what will shine through in your images. I am so excited to work with you and your family!

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