What to Wear for Newborn Photos

When I took newborn family photos with Charles, I ordered over a dozen dresses – everything from high-end designer pieces to affordable Amazon finds. And guess what I ended up wearing? A dress from Amazon. It wasn’t the most expensive option, but it felt the most like me. I followed the same guidelines I always stick to for family photo sessions: a flowy, long dress with sleeves. Something soft and timeless that moves beautifully in photos.

This time around, I also hired Good Grace Photography, a somewhat well-known newborn photographer – and she gave us a lot of guidance on our outfits. She even helped me shop and choose pieces that would photograph well together. It took so much of the guesswork out of planning and made a huge difference in how the final images turned out.

But when I had my first son, I went a totally different route. For that newborn shoot, I wore maternity jeans and a simple tank top. There’s no right or wrong – it all depends on what you feel your best in. Whether you want something elevated and styled or casual and cozy, this post is here to help you find the right look for the whole family.

What to Wear: Outfit Tips & Inspiration

When it comes to newborn photos—especially lifestyle newborn photography taken in your home—you want outfits that feel relaxed, timeless, and cohesive. Think neutral colors, soft pastels, cozy textures, and outfits that won’t compete with your baby’s sweet little face.

A few guiding principles:

• Stick to a neutral palette: Beige, cream, soft white, dusty blue, or blush tend to photograph beautifully. Avoid bright colors and loud patterns.
  
• Avoid logos or graphics: They can be distracting and take away from the timeless feel of newborn photos.
  
• Coordinate, don’t match: Everyone should look like they belong in the same story, but not like you’re all wearing a uniform.
  
• Go for texture: Sweaters, knits, linen, and gauzy cotton photograph well and add depth without being busy.
  
• Comfort counts: Especially for new moms recovering from delivery and little ones who will need outfit changes, flexibility and softness are key.

Mom Outfits

This is the time to wear something you feel good in. You just had a baby, you might be nursing or pumping, and your body is still recovering—so comfort and confidence should come first.

Outfit Ideas for Moms

• Flowy maxi dress: This is my personal go-to (it’s in my roundup of gorgeous maternity dresses). A maxi dress in a soft neutral with some sleeve coverage gives beautiful movement in photos and hides any postpartum discomfort.
  
• Long-sleeved midi dress: Especially great if you want to show a little leg or need a nursing-friendly option with buttons.
  
• Sweater + soft pants: For an in-home shoot, a relaxed knit sweater and maternity jeans or flowy pants can be beautiful and real.
  
• White Tank + oversized cardigan: What I wore the first time! It’s more casual but works especially well for snuggling up in a lifestyle shoot.

Brands to check out:

• Amazon (I wore this dress in my most recent shoot!)
  
• Nothing Fits But
  
• Doen
  
• Free People (their boho styles photograph beautifully)
  
• H&M or Zara Maternity
  
• Baltic Born
  
• PinkBlush

Bonus tip: Add a touch of soft makeup and a headband or loose waves (check out my tutorial for how to curl your hair) for a polished but not overdone look.

Dad Outfits

Let’s keep it simple and classic. A neutral top (think cream, gray, white, or oatmeal) paired with khakis, linen pants, or clean jeans works well.

Clothing Recommendations for Dads

• Henley or button-up shirt (avoid stiff collars unless you’re going formal)
  
• Crewneck sweater or tee in a solid neutral or subtle stripe
  
• Pants: Khakis, chinos, or soft-wash jeans in darker tones
  
• Shoes: Go barefoot if you’re indoors; otherwise, a clean sneaker or boot works

Avoid logos, heavy patterns, or anything overly trendy that might date the photo.

Sibling Outfits

If you’re including big brothers or sisters, their outfits should be soft and complementary—but also functional. Toddlers especially need to be comfy or they will let you know.

What to Wear for Newborn Photos with Siblings

• Girls: A flowy dress in cotton or gauze, neutral tones, or florals. Add a simple bow or headband.
  
• Boys: Neutral tee or button-up with soft pants or shorts. Sweaters are great too.

Try to avoid stiff outfits, overalls with snaps, or anything itchy. Keep backup options nearby.

Baby Outfits

Honestly? Less is more. Newborn photographers often recommend simple swaddles or even just a diaper with a knit blanket. The focus should be on your baby’s face and little features, not their outfit.

What Do Newborns Wear During the Session?

• White or cream onesie
  
• Knit footie pajamas
  
• Textured swaddle or muslin blanket
  
• Knit bonnet or soft hat
  
• Bare skin + diaper (these are the diapers I get for my baby) for minimalist photos

Most photographers will bring wraps and blankets, so check with them ahead of time. And always have a backup outfit or two in case of blowouts or spit-up.

General Guidelines

Here’s a quick recap of what works well across the board:

• Neutrals and soft pastels: cream, ivory, beige, soft gray, muted blue, dusty rose
  
• Texture: knits, linen, gauze, soft cotton
  
• Avoid bright colors, logos, or busy prints
  
• Think timeless, not trendy
  
• Coordinate your family’s look without matching exactly
  
• Layers can add interest without bulk
  
• Always bring backups (for baby and siblings especially!)

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re team flowy dress like I was with Charles, or leaning toward jeans and a tank like I was the first time around, remember: you are the most important part of the photo. Choose something you feel confident and comfortable in—and then don’t stress about the rest. These photos are about capturing the magic of your new baby and your new life together.

And if all else fails? An Amazon dress and a good swaddle will take you far.

Other Blog Post You Might Like:

• Dresses for Family Photos (+ tips to pick your most flattering option)
  
• Casual Summer Dresses (That Actually Work for Mom Life)
  
• Best Jeans to Add to Your Closet (and how to style them)
  
• Cute Baby Boy and Toddler Clothes

• Tommy’s Favorite Duck Head Clothing

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