Dressing for Newborn Photos: A Guide for Parents and Families
Newborn photos are cherished keepsakes, capturing the precious early days of a baby’s life. As families prepare for these special photo sessions, choosing the right outfits can significantly enhance the overall look and feel of the images. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how parents and families can dress for newborn photos to ensure beautiful, timeless results.
1. There are two options for choosing outfits, coordinating colors or matching colors.
While matching outfits for everyone might seem like a good idea, coordinating colors and styles often results in more visually appealing photos. If you prefer a more monotone look, go for matching. Choose a color palette that you find appealing and will enjoy looking at hanging on your walls. Neutral tones like beige, white, gray, and pastels are classic choices that create a cohesive look without overpowering the image.
Here is an example of Parents matching:
Here is an example of parents coordinating:
Tips for Coordinating:
- Choose a Color Palette: Opt for 2-3 colors that work well together. Earthy tones, soft pastels, or subtle patterns can create a serene, harmonious look.
- Avoid Bright Patterns: Bold patterns can distract from the baby and may clash with other family members’ outfits. It’s okay for one person to have multiple colors in their dress or shirt, but everyone else in the photo should be in solids. For example, here dad and big brother are wearing matching flannels while mom and sisters are wearing coordinating neutrals.
2. Opt for Comfort
Comfort is key, both for the baby and for the family. Choose clothing that feels good and allows you to move freely. For parents and siblings, this means avoiding overly tight or restrictive clothing. Soft fabrics like cotton are ideal, as they’re gentle on the skin and look relaxed. Mommas: You have just had a baby. Your belly was growing for 9 months and it will take some time for your belly to shrink again. If you are uncomfortable with your tummy, a loose fitting dress or shirt will help disguise your still swollen abdomen.
Comfort Tips:
- Soft Fabrics: Choose breathable and soft materials that are comfortable for everyone, especially if the session lasts for a while.
- Layering: For families in cooler climates, layering can add texture and interest without sacrificing comfort.
3. Keep It Simple
Simplicity often leads to the most timeless and elegant photos. Avoid overly elaborate outfits or accessories that can draw attention away from the baby. Solid colors or subtle patterns work best. If you want to add a touch of interest, consider textures such as knits or soft fabrics.
Simplicity Tips:
- Minimal Accessories: Keep accessories to a minimum to ensure they don’t compete with the baby or create distractions.
- Classic Styles: Opt for classic and timeless styles over trendy ones to ensure the photos remain relevant for years to come.
4. Dress for the Occasion
Think about the tone and style you want for the photos. Formal outfits can create a classic and elegant feel, while casual wear can make the photos feel more relaxed and natural. Ultimately, choose outfits that reflect your family’s personality and the mood you wish to convey.
5. Plan Ahead
To avoid last-minute stress, plan your outfits well in advance. This allows you to make any necessary adjustments and ensures that everything is clean and pressed before the session. Consider doing a test run to see how the outfits look together and make sure everyone feels comfortable.
Planning Tips:
- Try On Outfits: Have a mini dress rehearsal to ensure everything fits well and looks good together.
- Prepare in Advance: Lay out the outfits a day or two before the shoot to avoid any last-minute issues. Make sure that everything you are wearing is unwrinkled. If you are choosing materials that easily wrinkle, consider getting dressed at the studio.
Conclusion
The key to beautiful newborn photos lies in thoughtful preparation and coordination. By choosing outfits that complement each other and the setting, prioritizing comfort, and keeping the look simple yet stylish, families can ensure that their newborn photos are both stunning and timeless. Remember, the goal is to capture the genuine love and connection within the family, so choose outfits that make everyone feel relaxed and happy.
To view more of my newborn photos click here:
You can find more ideas for dressing your family on Pinterest