One of the most common questions I receive before a session is, “What should we wear for our newborn photos?” Wardrobe choices play a huge role in creating soft, timeless images that you’ll cherish for years to come.
As a Cleveland newborn photographer and a mom of four, I completely understand how stressful it can feel to plan outfits when you’re adjusting to life with a newborn. After having four kids of my own, I know firsthand how hard it can be to dress everyone, get out the door, and still feel photo ready.
Trying to plan outfits last minute, while sleep-deprived and caring for a brand new baby, can feel overwhelming. That’s why I always recommend choosing and coordinating your outfits before your baby arrives. Having a few ideas ready lets you relax and enjoy your newborn session while I handle the rest.
Here’s my complete guide on what to wear for your newborn session so you can feel confident, comfortable, and camera ready.
Keep It Simple with Neutrals
My personal favorite look for newborn sessions is all neutrals. Soft shades of cream, beige, ivory, taupe, gray, or white always photograph beautifully, creating a calm and timeless feel.
Neutrals keep the attention on your baby, their tiny features, fuzzy hair, and sweet expressions. They also give your photos that soft, dreamy aesthetic that works perfectly in both color and black and white images.
Choosing neutral tones helps your entire family coordinate effortlessly. When everyone wears shades that flow naturally together, your gallery will look cohesive, elegant, and beautiful when displayed in albums or wall art.
Add Soft, Muted Pops of Color
If you love color, you can absolutely include it. Just keep it soft and subtle so your baby remains the focus. I recommend light, desaturated tones that blend well with neutrals.
Some of my favorite color options for newborn photos include:
Blush pink: soft and feminine, perfect for mom or baby girl
White washed denim or light blue: timeless and casual, great for dads or siblings
Sage green: earthy, peaceful, and beautiful for either gender
Dusty rose or muted lavender: delicate and romantic without overpowering the image
Soft tones add warmth and personality to your session while keeping everything timeless and natural.
Avoid Strong Patterns or Distracting Details
When planning what to wear for your newborn session, skip busy patterns, bold colors, or clothing with large logos. These can distract from your baby and make your photos feel less classic.
If you’d like to include a pattern, that’s perfectly fine. Just have one family member wear it. Choose delicate florals, subtle stripes, or soft textures and pair them with solid neutrals to maintain a balanced look.
Keep accessories simple as well. Soft fabrics, subtle textures, and minimal jewelry always photograph best.
Don’t Forget the Little Details
Small details make a big difference in your final gallery. Here are a few easy tips to elevate your photos:
Hands and nails: Keep nails clean and simple with nude polish or none at all. Bright or chipped polish can distract in close up shots.
Shoes: Choose clean, neutral shoes or go barefoot for a natural look.
Toddlers: Barefoot toddlers look adorable and feel more comfortable during the session.
What to Expect for Baby’s Outfits
You don’t need to bring much for your newborn. My Cleveland photography studio is fully stocked with a variety of newborn outfits, wraps, and accessories.
I offer chunky knit outfits, soft wraps in every neutral tone, and textured layers in light colors that photograph beautifully. Each piece is carefully selected to highlight your baby’s delicate details, their tiny fingers, toes, and sweet expressions, while keeping everything timeless and organic.
Each newborn session is fully customized, and I’ll help you select the pieces that best match your preferred style.
My Client Closet for Moms and Girls
Choosing what to wear after having a baby can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. My client closet is filled with flattering gowns for moms and dresses for little girls, hand selected to photograph beautifully in my studio lighting.
Whether you prefer something flowy and romantic, lacey and feminine, or classic and simple, I’ll help you find the perfect outfit.
Many of my clients love using the client closet because it takes away stress and ensures everything looks cohesive and camera ready.
Hair and Makeup Add On
I also offer the option to include professional hair and makeup services for your session. This add on allows you to feel pampered, relaxed, and confident on your session day. My trusted stylists specialize in natural, photo ready looks that enhance your beauty and complement the soft, timeless style of newborn portraits.
When you arrive, you can sit back, sip a coffee, and enjoy a quiet moment while your baby rests. By the time your session begins, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to step in front of the camera.
If you’d like to include hair and makeup with your newborn session, simply let me know when booking, and I’ll help arrange everything for you.
I’m Here to Help You Style Your Session
Styling newborn sessions is one of my favorite parts of the process. You’re not alone when it comes to choosing outfits. I’ll help you every step of the way.
From color coordination and texture choices to accessories and layering, I’ll help you create a look that feels natural and effortless. You can even text or email me outfit ideas before your session so we can plan everything together.
Create Timeless, Treasured Memories
Your newborn photos are more than just pictures; they’re memories of one of the most special seasons of your life. The tiny details, the snuggles, the love, all deserve to be remembered beautifully.
When you choose soft, timeless outfits, your images will never go out of style. Whether framed in your home or preserved in an heirloom album, these photos will tell your family’s story for generations.
Final Thoughts
When planning what to wear for your newborn session, think neutral, soft, and simple. Avoid strong patterns, coordinate tones, and choose comfort. Your baby is the star, and your outfits should simply enhance that sweet new life you’re celebrating.
And remember, you’re never alone in planning your session. I’ll help with outfit coordination, styling advice, and access to my full client closet and optional hair and makeup services. Together, we’ll create a relaxed, beautiful experience that results in timeless newborn images you’ll cherish forever.
If you’re expecting and looking for a Cleveland newborn photographer, I’d love to help you plan your perfect newborn session. Reach out today to reserve your due date and start styling your dream session.
Are you still prepping for your birth? Check out my blog for the 5 must haves for your hospital room after birth.
