What should I wear for my newborn’s session?

One of the best things about my newborn sessions (besides those adorable little baby feet) is that I’ll create family portraits when you’re here. And that means I’m often asked, “What should I wear?”

Here’s a few things to consider when dressing yourself for your newborn’s session.

What do you feel most comfortable in? That’s always a great place to start, especially for a new mom who will likely still have some baby weight. During the session you’ll be sitting and standing and maybe even lying down so be sure your clothing will be comfortable for all that moving.

Lea Murphy Photography studio portrait of parents on a bed looking down at their newborn daughter

Solid colors are, well, a solid choice.

Clothing of solid colors make a terrific “background” in the portraits where you’ll be holding your baby. Soft colors tend to work best as they don’t overpower the portraits. Think baby blue, soft pink, cream, taupe, sage, grey, navy—colors along those lines.

Lea Murphy Photography studio portrait of parents snuggled close together looking down at their newborn daughter

If patterns are your jam, bring ‘em.

Small checks and florals are always good and don’t ever seem to go out of style which means your portraits won’t look dated as the years go by.

Lea Murphy Photography newborn studio portrait of mom lying on her tummy on a bed while snuggling her newborn son, dad is proudly hugging his wife

Lea Murphy Photography studio portrait of a new mother kissing the head of her newborn daughter

Coordinate with your baby’s wardrobe if you bring newborn clothing from home

I have several onsie options available in the studio for newborn sessions but parents sometimes prefer to bring their own newborn clothing and that’s perfectly fine. If you go this route it’s super simple to put all your outfits together before you come to see that everything looks good together.

Lea Murphy Photography newborn studio portrait of family holding their newborn son while their toddler daughter snuggles close to her daddy

Clothing with a simple front is ideal for parents

Newborn sessions include a variety of photographs with mom holding the baby and dad holding the baby. In some of these the baby will be up against mom or dad’s chest so consider clothing that has a smooth front: sweaters, long or short-sleeved t-shirts, and polos work great. Stay away from zippers and big buttons if you can; this will make your baby more comfortable as they rest against you.

Lea Murphy Photography newborn studio portrait of parents holding their newborn daughter. Mom's cheek is resting on baby's bare back while daddy looks proudly at the camera

My newborn studio is light, bright and airy so whatever colors you wear will be seen

Use the colors you love in your clothing to make your portraits more personal, that way your portraits will look gorgeous hanging in your home.

Lea Murphy Photography studio portrait of new parents snuggled close together holding their newborn daughter

Moms, if your hair is long you might like to bring a hair tie or barrette

I don’t want your face hidden when we do poses where you’re looking down or snuggling with your baby.

Lea Murphy Photography newborn portrait of mom laid on her tummy on a bed kissing her newborn son's temple

Be sure to coordinate with your spouse/partner

The easiest way to make sure everything coordinates is to lay your clothing out and look for anything that just doesn’t go. Substitute something else in its place until everything looks pleasing to your eye. If you’re unsure bring a few options and I can help you decide.