Booking a newborn photography session is exciting, but preparing for your baby comes with a LOT of decisions and this can feel like yet another: what should we wear? In those first few weeks at home, the last thing you need is added stress about clothes. The truth is that newborn photos work best when you feel like yourselves. Sessions with me are calm and unhurried, with plenty of room for feeds, changes and naps along the way. Life does not stop for photos and your outfits do not need to be perfect or styled for a magazine. This is about your life at home with your baby. The right wardrobe is simply whatever helps you feel comfortable, confident and present with your baby.
Comfort and simplicity first
The most important thing is that you feel at ease. Newborn sessions often involve sitting on the bed, curling up on the couch or leaning in for cuddles. Choose clothes that allow you to move freely and feel like yourself. If jeans and a tshirt are your go-to, wear them. If you love colour, bring it in. Neutrals are always easy, but colour can work beautifully too. If patterns are your thing, you should be wearing them.
A tip from many years of experience
One thing to watch is wearing the same shade as your baby. If your baby is wearing or wrapped in a white or cream blanket, choose something with a little more depth for yourself, this helps you not to blend together in the photos.
Outfits for parents at your newborn photo session
For mums and dads, the best outfit is usually something you already own and feel good in. Clothes that reflect your everyday style make photos feel more genuine and timeless. Think about what a relaxed weekend at home might look like. A comfy cardigan, an open shirt layered over a tee, or a simple knit can all add variety without feeling forced. If you are breastfeeding, looser fits or button fronts may be useful.
The focus should be on wearing something that feels natural. When your child looks back at these photos years from now, what they will notice is the love on your face and the way you are holding them.
Outfits for your newborn
Newborn photography outfits are best kept very simple. A plain onesie or a knit romper or even singlet is more than enough. Natural fabrics like cotton, knit or muslin photograph well and keep your baby comfortable. Having little hands or feet uncovered can make for lovely detail shots, while a swaddle can bring variety and personality. I love when people have some extra wraps or blankets out ready to go as we can use these!
Try to avoid stiff fabrics, scratchy seams or outfits with lots of extras. Hats and bows may look cute, but they can slip down and cover your baby’s face. We can take a few shots like this if you absolutely love them but it’s best to keep this to just a few photos. Also be aware of clothing that has big collars or rides up when you’re holding your baby so we don’t obscure their beautiful little faces.
It is always worth having a backup outfit!
Outfits for siblings
If older children are part of your newborn session, think about comfort first for them as well. Outfits that are soft and easy to move in work best. Aim for a coordinated palette rather than matching each other exactly. A mix of tones and textures usually feels more natural.
I have some great tips for how to dress a family over here.
Letting siblings have a small say in what they wear can help too. Offering two parent-approved choices gives them ownership without turning it into a battle. The aim is to keep them relaxed enough to dip in and out of photos when it suits.
Colours, textures and how it all comes together
When you are planning what to wear for newborn photos ask yourself what colours do you like? Soft shades, earthy tones and muted colours photograph beautifully, but bold colour can look fantastic too. Please don’t shy from what you like and feels like you. It’s best to avoid anything with text or characters or big logos or these can distract from your faces and better if no one is wearing neon (funny right… but it happens!).
Texture is great. Linen, knits are brilliant. I want anyone looking at your images for their eye to go straight to your faces and the connection you have together rather than being distracted by your clothes.
Practical preparation for newborn photography in Melbourne
If it helps, you can lay your outfits out together beforehand to see how they work as a set. Check how clothes feel while sitting, lying back or leaning over your baby, since those are the moments that happen most naturally. For in-home newborn photography, shoes are not important. I’m okay if you really want to keep your socks on (it’s your call) but barefeet does look better!
For your baby, one main outfit and a spare is enough, although if you have a sentimental knitted piece, please by all means pull it out! Just don’t feel any pressure to have multiple outfits. For parents and siblings, comfort is the priority and you can always make small adjustments during our time together.
Final thoughts
Newborn photos are not about presenting a polished version of your family. They are about slowing down, noticing tiny fingers and toes, and holding onto this new stage of life. Clothes should simply support that. Keep them simple, comfortable and true to you, and let the rest unfold naturally.
Common Questions
Do we all need to match?
No. Matching outfits can feel forced and blend you all in together. A palette that ties everyone together looks far more natural. Think about balance instead of identical clothes.
How does a newborn session work?
Head on over here to see the process of how a newborn session with me looks.
What if my baby cries or needs a feed?
That is completely normal. Sessions are designed with space for breaks, feeds and cuddles. Some of the best images often happen in those pauses.
Can I wear bright colours?
YES! If this is who you are, you can absolutely wear bright colours.
Do we need multiple outfits for our baby?
One outfit and a backup is usually enough. A swaddle or wrap can give extra variety without needing a full change.
Do I need to buy new clothes?
Not at all. Clothes you already feel comfortable in always look better than something brand new. Newborn photography is about connection, not fashion.
What if our house feels too messy for photos?
That is normal in the newborn weeks (or basically once you have kids!). All I need is one spot with decent light, whether that is a bedroom or a lounge room. The focus will be on you and your baby, not the background.
Can siblings wear something fun or patterned?
Sure can, just try to avoid clothes with characters or words if you can, as they can distract from faces.
