Last Updated on 28/04/2025 by Armands Sprogis
What to Wear for Newborn Photos — Complete Outfit Guide for Families
Planning what to wear for newborn photos can feel overwhelming, especially in those early days with a new baby. But choosing the right outfits can make a huge difference in creating timeless, beautiful images.
If you’re preparing for a newborn photoshoot, this guide will walk you through everything you need. From calming colour palettes to outfit tips for parents, siblings, and your baby, you’ll find practical ideas to ensure your newborn photo outfits look effortlessly perfect on camera.
Clothing is something worth planning ahead for. You may need to shop for a few items you don’t already have in your wardrobe, so it’s a good idea to prepare early. During newborn photo sessions, the studio is kept very warm — intentionally so.
Since your baby will often be photographed without clothes or in light wraps, the extra warmth ensures they stay cozy and content throughout the session. Be sure to dress in light layers yourself, as the heat can feel intense after a while.
1. Newborn Family Photo Outfits — Coordinating as a Group
When planning newborn family photo outfits, think in terms of coordination rather than everyone wearing the same thing. Choose a color palette — soft whites, muted greys, warm taupes — and build around it with complementary tones. This brings cohesion to the photos while keeping everyone comfortable in their own style. Textures like knits and linens can add dimension without distraction.
For parents, less is more. Solid colors, simple cuts, and soft fabrics always work well. Mums might opt for long-sleeve tops or cardigans, especially if they prefer a bit of arm coverage.
2. General outfit guidelines.
- Pack Extra Clothes — Accidents Happen More Than You Think
No matter what you’re wearing, be prepared for little accidents — because they will happen. Most newborn sessions involve at least one moment of baby wee (or worse) landing on mum, dad, or even the photographer! It’s completely normal and all part of the experience.
Bring a spare outfit for yourself, your partner, and of course, the baby. It’s not just about mess — having a second option also gives you flexibility if you’d like input on which outfit works best for the camera. - Choose Outfits That Flatter and Feel Comfortable
If you’re self-conscious about your arms, it’s a great idea to bring a top with long or three-quarter-length sleeves. Choose clothing you feel good in — comfort always shows in photos.
Avoid clothes with clashing colors, stripes, or large logos. You don’t need to match perfectly, but wearing similar tones creates harmony and looks more polished. Stick to plain or textured fabrics that complement your overall palette.colours - Iron Everything and Store It Properly
Creased shirts and wrinkled tops are a nightmare to fix in post-production, and they will show up in photos. Make sure everything is ironed ahead of time and transport your clothing in a hanger bag or neatly folded in a clean tote. Small details like this make a big visual impact in the final images.
3. Outfit recommendations for mums.
For Mums, soft neutral tops like cream, beige, or pale pink work beautifully, especially against light backgrounds. If you’re concerned about your arms, consider wearing long sleeves or three-quarter-length tops. Tank tops or bandeaus are ideal for skin-to-skin portraits. Stick to simple, solid colours and avoid bold prints or logos.
4. Clothing recommendations for dads.
For dads, plain T-shirts or button-downs in neutral or darker tones work best. Navy, grey, and charcoal all photograph well, especially on darker backdrops. Shirts should be clean, well-fitted, and wrinkle-free. If you’re open to it, skin-to-skin images with dads can be striking and emotional — a simple shirtless portrait with your baby in your arms is a timeless option.
5. Choose Sibling Outfits That Complement, Not Compete
Siblings add a special touch to newborn photos, but their outfits should blend seamlessly. For boys, go with plain tees or button-ups in neutral shades. Girls can wear soft dresses or simple tops with leggings — think timeless, not trendy. Avoid characters, bright patterns, or accessories like big bows that can date the photo. Comfort is key, especially if they’re still adjusting to their new sibling.
6. Choose Soft, Neutral Outfits for Your Baby
Neutral tones like cream, beige, soft grey, and muted pastels work best in newborn photo outfits. These gentle shades keep the focus on your baby’s features and help create that timeless, clean look. Avoid bright colours, busy prints, or anything with large logos. A simple swaddle or onesie in soft fabric often photographs beautifully. It’s also wise to bring a backup in case of little accidents during the session.
Studios are kept very warm for newborn sessions, because babies are often photographed undressed or lightly wrapped. It’s essential for their comfort — but it can get hot for everyone else. Dress in layers you can easily remove and stay hydrated. Knowing this in advance helps avoid feeling uncomfortable or sweaty during the session.
One more thing I forgot to say. Don’t worry about bringing light-toned clothes. Sometimes parents think if they wear white, then they will disappear in the light background, and it might result in a floating heads situation. Don’t worry! I light portraits in such a way that the background becomes more off white and closer to a light grey tone, so you will be fine with light tone clothing.
For a few more ideas, you can have a look on my clothing Pinterest board too. It is more general clothing for shoots but could be a few ideas for you there.
Check out my other guides for parents. DIY newborn photos at home, DIY Maternity Photos, What to wear for black and white family photos.
