If you are prepping for your newborn photo session than you might be stressing over the question: what should baby wear for newborn photos? A cute outfit? An heirloom? Nothing?

One of my favorite things is shopping for baby clothes. I mean all the adorable little outfits from the tiny little details to the colors and styles. Walking down the store aisle is just a lot of fun. And don’t get me started about baby blankets…soft, snuggly, beautiful. Aww just so much fun.

As an experienced OKC newborn photographer, I am here today to share how to choose the best outfit for your little to wear so they truly can shine in their newborn photos.

First remember – not all outfits work well for newborn photos. Some outfits you might absolutely love because of how cute they are but for photos it might not actually be as cute.

My next top tip: newborn photos are not about capturing an outfit. Let me say that again. Newborn photos are not about the outfit.

Lifestyle newborn photography is about naturally photographing your baby as they are. Their tiny, raw details, your love and delight in them and the connection you as a family have with your new little one.

What a baby wears is important but a cute looking outfit is not what works best for these sessions.

So with that said, what should baby wear for newborn photos?

Choose a plain, wellfitting onesie or gown for your baby to wear.

The key: wellfitting i.e. snug. Don’t try to save money here by getting an outfit they can grow into. Anything big will look sloppy as their body isn’t big enough to hold up an outfit. A snug onesie or gown that fits well allows us to see baby’s details as you snuggle them close without having to worry about pulling the sleeve or ruffle down.

Tip: Choose a plain white onesie. Buy one in newborn or even premie size to make sure it fits well. A simple onesie or even just the diaper and a swaddle can be adorable.

I love gowns or footless sleeper outfits that allow us easy access to baby’s feet. A few of my favorite outfits for new baby’s: one piece outfits from Carters, Loulou and Company, Bonsie Baby.

And just like my recommendations for adult and children’s clothing: choose outfits that don’t have any sayings animals, logos or big prints. These things will distract from the star of the show: Baby!

Neutral colors are the best for baby’s outfit choice in newborn photos.

Newborn skin can be a little red or yellow making colors especially like pink, red, and blue to add weird hues to their skin.

Dressing your baby in neutrals will work best with that precious little newborn skin.

Whites, creams and grays work best. These tend to always work best to let your little one steal the show. Neturals also remain classic and timeless, helping your photos age well.

Add swaddles for your newborn photos.

I do tell clients they are welcome to have a few different swaddles. If you have a loud print in one or name in a certain color, we can do a few photos and then change to a more neutral one that goes with the photos.

Babies love being swaddled and this often can help fall asleep for the session and stay settled.

My very favorite swaddles are these soft and lovely ones: Konssy, Leil and Ari Loulou and Company. If you want a printed one with your littles name, I recommend Audrey & Bear.

Should baby wear a headband or hat for newborn photos?

While a hat or bow is okay for a few photos, keep these tips in mind. One, make sure it’s well fitting and neutral. You don’t want to have to keep adjusting it off your little one’s face.

And two keep bows simple, soft and small. Large bows can overpower your little dear girl’s face. Remember the point of these photos is to see your baby not the bow.

I hope this piece on what should baby wear for newborn photos was helpful to you. If you are in the OKC metro area and want an organic, authentic and joyful newborn session, contact me and let’s get your due date on my calendar!

Author bio:

Charis is an OKC newborn photographer serving families with photo sessions that take place in the comfort of your own home. With 5 years of experience and also a mom of 3 she uses her experience with littles to provide you a relaxing session full of images you will cherish forever.