With the baby finally here, it can feel overwhelming to figure out the perfect outfit for the entire family. I mean, you’re juggling so many things at once—it’s exhausting. Of course, having a child isn’t easy. “What should we all wear?” It’s one of the most common questions before a newborn photo shoot—and it can feel like a lot, especially when you’re already exhausted.
If you’re unsure what outfits work best for your baby, yourself, and your family, don’t worry, I’ve put together simple tips and outfit ideas to make your shoot feel easy and look amazing.
Whether you’re planning a newborn photo shoot at home or booking with experienced newborn photographers in Philadelphia, this blog covers everything from baby outfits for photoshoots to family outfit ideas for newborn photos.
From soft newborn photography outfits to coordinated outfits for your newborn family shoot, I’ll show you how to make this experience easier and even fun. I’ll also share some of the best mom outfit ideas for newborn photo sessions, what dads can wear, and how to dress your little one so they stay comfy and photo-ready.
What Should My Newborn Wear for Their First Photo Shoot?
Keep it simple and soft. Your newborn is the focus, not their clothes. If they’re wearing something uncomfortable, they can get cranky fast—and that can make the whole photo shoot stressful and exhausting for you.
What Should a Newborn Wear for a Photo Shoot?
The best newborn photo outfit is a neutral swaddle, soft onesie, or cozy knit set. These keep your baby looking sweet, natural, and comfortable. Avoid bold patterns or big accessories—they distract from your baby’s face.
Some popular choices include:
- Ribbed cotton onesies in cream or beige
- Knit bonnets and booties
- Organic swaddles in solid pastel colors
- Waffle-textured onesies, muslin swaddles, or mini cardigans.
- A monogrammed blanket or a family heirloom knit.
These styles are perfect for both professional studio sessions and relaxed for newborn photo shoots.
What Should be the Color Pallet?
Here are some timeless newborn photo shoot outfit ideas that always photograph beautifully:
Soft Neutrals
- Cream
- white
- soft gray
- dusty pink
Pastels
- Soft shades of pink, blue
- lavender, or mint
Earth Tones
- Warm hues like soft browns
- Tans
- Muted greens
What are the perfect Seasonal Colors for a Newborn?
For winter:
- Soft whites
- Pale blues
- Light grays
- Subtle silver or frost tones
For spring:
- Light yellows
- Soft pinks
- Lavender
- Floral tones like soft peach or mint green
For summer:
- Pastel blues
- Light coral
- Soft greens
- Pale yellows
For fall:
- Warm browns
- Mustard yellow
- Rust orange
- Olive greens
What Should Mom Wear?
Most moms are just weeks postpartum and don’t feel their best. It’s essential for the mom to be comfortable,after all, your body is still healing, and managing yourself while caring for a newborn can be really challenging.
Top Tip: flowy, flattering, and comfortable.
Here are a few go-to mom outfit for newborn photo session picks:
- Long, neutral maxi dresses
- Wrap dresses (especially nursing-friendly ones)
- Loose linen shirts with soft jeans or leggings
- Subtle prints like floral or polka dots in muted tones
These styles photograph well and match a baby’s simple look, while reflecting the soft, glowing tone of newborn galleries.
What not to Wear?
When it comes to a mom outfit for a newborn photo session, comfort and simplicity matter most. Here are a few things moms should avoid wearing:
- Tight or uncomfortable clothes – You’re still healing, so avoid anything that digs in or feels restrictive.
- Busy patterns or logos – Loud prints or big brand names can distract from the natural, soft vibe of the shoot.
- Neon or overly bright colors – These colors can clash with the soft tones typically used in newborn photography Philadelphia style sessions.
- Stiff fabrics – Stay away from anything scratchy or heavy; opt for soft cottons or flowy materials.
- High heels or formal shoes – These aren’t necessary, especially if you’re getting relaxed or at-home sessions. Barefoot or cozy socks are often best.
Instead, go for soft, neutral tones, flowy dresses, or comfy knits that help you feel relaxed and confident. You deserve to look and feel good—without stress!
What Should Dad Wear?
Dads should keep it clean and neutral too. Think about coordinated outfits for newborn family shoots rather than matching.
Some easy ideas:
- Solid-colored tees or henley shirts
- Soft flannel or cotton button-downs
- Neutral pants or jeans (no loud logos!)
Make sure dad’s outfit matches mom’s—if she wears blush, choose gray or cream for a soft, cozy look newborn photographers love.
What not to wear?
Dads play a key role in creating timeless family photos, but the wrong outfit can ruin the vibe. Here’s what dads should avoid for a newborn shoot:
- Bright colors – Neon and bold shades distract from the baby.
- Graphic tees – Stick to plain, classic pieces.
- Wrinkled or ill-fitting clothes – Ensure everything is neat and well-fitted.
- Shorts or sleeveless shirts – Longer sleeves and pants usually photograph better.
- Heavy patterns – Loud prints can make photos feel too busy.
Choose simple, neutral tones like beige, cream, soft blue, or light gray. A basic henley, button-up, or sweater with jeans or chinos pairs well with most baby outfits.
What Should Siblings Wear?
If your newborn has siblings, it’s a great idea to coordinate their outfits too!
Top tip: You don’t need to exactly match them. Remember, the focus of the shoot is your newborn
Little siblings can wear something simple, soft, and comfy.
For girls:
- Linen dresses
- Cotton rompers
- Barefoot with bows or headbands
For boys:
- Neutral tees or collared shirts
- Suspenders or joggers in soft shades
Avoid character shirts or anything with neon. You want the color palette to blend for beautiful matching family outfits for baby pictures.
What not to Wear?
Since the main focus is your newborn, don’t make the siblings wear anything that might steal attention. Avoid:
- Bright, neon, or bold colors
- Busy patterns or cartoon characters
- Clothes with text, logos, or graphics
- Overly formal or stiff outfits
- Anything uncomfortable or itchy
Stick to soft fabrics, calm colors, and easy fits. The goal is to keep things sweet and natural for those memorable family photos.
What Would Be Some Popular Color Combos for the Entire Family?
Of course! Here’s a quick list of color combos for the whole family that look great in newborn photo shoots:
- Cream + Beige + Dusty Pink
- White + Soft Gray + Light Blue
- Warm Taupe + Ivory + Olive Green
- Muted Terracotta + Cream + Tan
- Pale Yellow + White + Sage Green
- Blush Pink + Stone Gray + Off-White
- Light Brown + Baby Blue + Warm White
These combinations work beautifully for both studio and newborn photo shoots at home settings.
Let’s not forget the Props and Accessories!
What Props or Accessories will look Best?
Remember not to overdo it. Many photo shoots for newborns already include props. But if you’re doing it yourself or want to bring your own:
- A family quilt
- Wooden name signs
- Seasonal flowers
- Stuffed animals or rattles
Some newborn photography prop clothing options include lace wraps, knitted outfits, or soft bloomers. Less is more, especially for newborn photographers who often rely on natural lighting and organic textures.
Can I Do a Newborn Photo Shoot at Home?
Absolutely! I loved our newborn photo shoot at home because it felt relaxed and real. You don’t need a studio to get stunning shots.
Here are a few of my favorite newborn at home photo shoot ideas:
- Bed Snuggles: Everyone cuddled up under a white blanket.
- Nursery Details: Baby in the crib, surrounded by favorite toys.
- Window Light: Morning light by the window with the baby wrapped in a swaddle.
- Changing Time Moments: Natural, raw, and honest. Beautiful.
Many newborn photographers will come to your home and help you make these moments magical.
How Should We Coordinate Family Outfits?
The secret to family outfit ideas for newborn photos? Choose a color palette, then mix and match textures.
Let’s say your color palette is cream, dusty blue, and sage green:
- Mom wears a flowy sage dress
- Dad wears a white shirt and khaki pants
- Baby wears a cream onesie
- Siblings wear pale blue and ivory outfits
This gives that perfectly styled but not overdone feel that is popular in newborn photography portfolios.
Bonus Tips for a First Time Mom!
- Feed baby before the shoot for a sleepy, peaceful vibe
- Bring backup outfits (babies spit up… a lot)
- Keep a pacifier nearby just in case
- Don’t aim for perfection—natural moments are the best
Trust your photographer, especially if they specialize in newborn photography.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right newborn photo shoot outfit doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Stick to neutral colors, mix textures, and keep everyone comfortable.
Whether you book with top-rated newborn photographers in Philadelphia or try your hand at a newborn photo shoot at home, your baby’s first photos will be unforgettable.
FAQs
What should my baby wear for a newborn photoshoot?
Remember to keep it cozy and minimal since newborns are sensitive and won’t be able to tolerate anything tight or scratchy. Soft swaddles, simple onesies, or cozy wraps would work best for a baby.
Should we wear matching outfits for a newborn photoshoot?
Not necessarily. Since the main focus is your baby, you don’t want to overdo it or make it look like a couple’s photoshoot. Coordinating tones like soft neutrals and pastels create a clean and unified look without drawing attention away from your newborn.
Are there specific colors that look best in newborn photography?
Creams, beige, soft gray, and pastels would look best. Avoid bright or bold patterns.
Can we include siblings in the newborn photo shoot? What should they wear?
Ofcourse! Dress them in simple, neutral outfits that complement the rest of the family.
Should we avoid any specific clothing styles or colors?
You should avoid bright colors, loud patterns, logos or stiff fabrics. They can be distracting and extremely uncomfortable for your baby.