When you book your newborn session, the next logical question is usually, “What should we wear?”

The good news is this doesn’t have to be complicated. The goal is simple: timeless, comfortable, and cohesive, without anything distracting from your baby (the star of the show).

Since my studio is bright and white, and my editing style is light and airy, there are certain tones that photograph beautifully every single time.

Stick to Soft Neutrals & Pastels

The colors that work best in my Raleigh studio are: white, ivory, cream, tan, khaki, light blue, and blush pink.

These tones blend naturally with the white studio space and the white textiles I use throughout the session. They keep your images feeling soft, clean, and timeless — and most importantly, they keep the focus where it belongs: on your baby.

I recommend avoiding bold colors, heavy patterns, or anything with logos. Solids or very small, subtle prints photograph best and won’t pull attention away from your newborn.

What Moms Should Wear for Newborn Photos

I always encourage moms to wear flowy dresses for newborn sessions. Dresses are more forgiving than pants, photograph beautifully, and feel feminine and effortless — especially in those early postpartum days.

Choose a dress that helps you feel comfortable and confident:

If you’re insecure about your arms, look for a dress with sleeves.
If your midsection is an area you’re still adjusting to, a dress with a relaxed or flowing fit works wonderfully.
Soft fabrics that move easily photograph best.

I also offer a client closet for women, which includes a curated collection of dresses specifically chosen to photograph well in my studio. You’re welcome to browse the options ahead of time and select something that feels like you — just elevated and effortless.

What Dads Should Wear

For dads, simple is best. Neutral tones photograph beautifully and complement mom and baby without competing.

Great options include:

Slacks, jeans, or linen pants
A light-colored button-down
Or a simple white or cream t-shirt

Nothing stiff or overly formal is needed — the vibe here is relaxed and natural.

What Siblings Should Wear

Older siblings can mirror what the parents are wearing so everything feels cohesive.

Little girls photograph beautifully in simple dresses.
Boys can wear pants with a neutral shirt or button-down.

Again, solids or subtle patterns work best. This keeps the attention on your family connection rather than clothing.

Barefoot Is Always Welcome

This is not a stuffy studio — bare feet are absolutely welcome here. Going barefoot helps keep the session feeling relaxed and natural and adds to the timeless look of the images.

Keep It Simple & Let Baby Shine

When it comes to newborn photos, less really is more. Coordinated neutrals, soft fabrics, and simple silhouettes allow your baby to be the focus — not busy outfits or trendy pieces that won’t stand the test of time.

For the baby? Nothing. You don’t need to bring anything for baby to wear. They will be wrapped in soft, white fabrics. If you have something that is sentimental, you can most certainly bring it for baby to wear. I do recommend to not change baby several times because it disrupts the flow and could cause baby to become unsettled.

If you’d like more insight into how a session flows, you can read about what to expect at your newborn session here, or reach out if you’d like help choosing outfits or planning your session. I’m always happy to guide you through it.

What to Wear for Newborn Photos | Raleigh Studio Guide