Preparing for a newborn photoshoot is an exciting time, but it can also bring up questions about what to wear to ensure the photos look cohesive and beautiful. As a newborn photographer with studio in Owatonna, MN, I’ve compiled some tips to help you dress your best for this special occasion. Here’s a guide to choosing the perfect outfits for parents and siblings during your newborn photoshoot.

1. Stick to Neutral and Soft Colors

Neutral and soft colors are timeless and keep the focus on your newborn. Whites, creams, beiges, pastels, and light grays work beautifully. These shades create a serene and harmonious look, highlighting the tenderness of the moment.


2. Avoid Bold Patterns and Logos

Bold patterns and logos can be distracting and take attention away from the baby. Instead, opt for solid colors or very subtle patterns. This approach ensures that the images remain classic and elegant, without any elements that could date the photos.


3. Coordinate, Don’t Match

While it’s great to have a cohesive look, you don’t need to match outfits exactly. Choose a color palette and pick clothes that complement each other. For example, if your color scheme is soft blues and grays, parents might wear shades of blue while siblings could wear light gray or white.


4. Comfort is Key

Newborn photoshoots can take a few hours, so make sure everyone is comfortable. Choose soft, breathable fabrics that won’t irritate your skin or your baby’s. Comfortable clothing helps everyone stay relaxed and natural, which translates to better photos.


5. Timeless Styles

Select timeless clothing styles that won’t look dated in a few years. Classic pieces like a simple dress for mom, a button-down shirt for dad, and cute, plain outfits for siblings are always a good choice. Avoid trendy items that might lose their appeal over time.


6. Simple Accessories

Keep accessories minimal and understated. Simple jewelry or a delicate headband for mom, and maybe a small bow or hat for the baby, can add a nice touch without overwhelming the photo. Avoid large or flashy accessories that can draw attention away from your faces.


7. Consider the Setting

Think about the setting of your photoshoot. If you’re at one of my studios in Owatonna, MN, or Attica, MI, the backdrop will likely be neutral and natural. Choose outfits that complement this environment. Earthy tones and soft pastels work well in both studio settings.


8. Plan for Layers

Especially in cooler weather, layering can add texture and interest to your photos. A soft cardigan or wrap for mom, or a light sweater for dad, can look great. Make sure layers are coordinated with the overall color palette.


9. Dress the Baby Comfortably

For your newborn, choose outfits that are simple and easy to change. Soft, snug-fitting onesies, swaddles, and sleep sacks are ideal. Avoid outfits with too many buttons or zippers that can be uncomfortable for the baby.


10. Prepare for Spills and Messes

Babies can be unpredictable, so bring extra outfits for everyone, just in case. Having backups on hand ensures that a minor spill or mess doesn’t disrupt the session.

A studio portrait featuring a newborn baby with parents.
A tender moment captured in black and white as a woman kisses a swaddled baby.
A cozy family portrait showing parents cuddling their newborn baby wrapped in beige against a neutral background.
A studio portrait of new parents holding their sleeping baby wrapped in blue against a beige backdrop.
An intimate moment between parent and newborn as they share a gentle kiss while wearing dark clothing.
A dramatic black and white portrait of a mother in lace dress holding her newborn close.
An artistic portrait of a mother in white lace dress lying with her sleeping newborn on tulle fabric.