What to Wear for Your Newborn Photo Session (And What to Skip)

If you’re planning your in-home newborn session and staring at your closet wondering what to wear—take a deep breath. This post is for you.

As a lifestyle newborn photographer in Austin, I get this question all the time, and the good news is: you don’t have to buy anything new. My goal is to keep your session relaxed and real, and that includes helping you choose what to wear for your newborn photo session that photographs beautifully while feeling like you.

What to Wear for Your Newborn Photo Session for the Entire Family

Parents:

• Soft, neutral tones: Think ivory, beige, light gray, dusty blue, or soft blush. These tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your connection.
• Comfortable, timeless silhouettes: Flowy dresses, cozy knits, and well-fitting tops always work. You’ll likely be sitting, standing, and snuggling—wear something you feel at ease in.
• Textures over patterns: Linen, waffle knit, cotton—these photograph beautifully. Avoid loud prints or logos that pull focus.

Baby:

• A simple swaddle or onesie: You don’t need props or outfits with sayings on them. A soft swaddle or neutral onesie lets your baby’s features shine.
• Bare baby is also an option: Tiny toes, fuzzy shoulders, and soft skin are all part of the story.

Siblings:

• Coordinate, don’t match: Choose a color palette (soft blues, creams, and sage, for example) and mix textures or patterns within that. Avoid dressing everyone the same.

What to Skip

• Bright, bold colors (they cast color on baby’s skin)
• Large logos or words on clothing
• Loud patterns or stripes
• Stiff fabrics or uncomfortable pieces you’ll want to take off in 10 minutes

Pro Tip: Use What You Already Have

If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to help you narrow down outfits. I also send a prep guide with suggestions and examples from past sessions, and I offer styling guidance in advance so there’s one less thing on your to-do list. If you do find yourself going through your closet and you just can’t find anything that should be at the top of your “what to wear for your newborn photo session” list, I suggest shopping at one of these well known stores for something that will hit all the marks above: The Gap, Old Navy, L.L. Bean and Quince all have classic wardrobe pieces to fall in love with.

You Don’t Need to Be “Photo Ready” — You Just Need to Be You

Lifestyle newborn photography is about connection, not perfection. You don’t need matching outfits or a Pinterest board of inspiration—you need a baby in your arms, a bit of natural light, and someone who knows how to capture the moments that matter. Worrying about what to wear for your newborn photo session shouldn’t be something that you stress about. And if you do, I’m here to help!

Looking for the best newborn photographer in Austin who keeps things real? Contact me here, and let’s create something timeless, comfortable, and uniquely yours.

LET’S CREATE SOMETHING UNFORGETTABLE!

Alissa is an award-winning brand, maternity, newborn and family photographer + documentary filmmaker in Austin, Texas. She serves the Austin and surrounding areas.

If you are interested in a maternity, newborn or family session with Alissa Cordoba Photography you can find all of the details here and full pricing information here. You can contact Alissa here or email her directly at alissa@alissacordoba.com