What should moms wear for a newborn session?

February 27, 2023

If you’re preparing for your baby’s first portraits, you might be wondering “what should moms wear for a newborn session?” Luckily, it’s pretty simple. Here are four tips to help you choose the perfect outfit.

Of course, if you’re joining me for a newborn photo session in Los Angeles, you can always just wear something from my studio wardrobe collection ;).

Keep colors soft and patterns subtle

I recommend that you wear light, neutral colors during your newborn’s session. Newborn babies are pretty tiny, so it’s easy for bold patterns and loud colors to pull focus in an image. Not only that, but brighter shades can create a color cast on baby’s skin when you are holding them close.

Newborn in moms arms

Couple with twin newborns in arms

Moms should wear something comfortable

Most likely, your newborn session will be photographed in the first two weeks after birth. If you are the birthing parent, you may still be recovering from delivery. Most of my clients choose a dress or flowy top with plenty of room through the torso. If you are breastfeeding your baby, make sure your outfit is easy to pull down, lift up, or change out of.

what should moms wear for a newborn session

Wear soft clothing

Aside from being comfortable for you, soft fabric is comfortable for your baby. You’ll be snuggling your baby close during the session and you don’t want to wear anything that might be scratchy or otherwise irritating to baby’s skin. Watch out for embellishments, zippers, or buttons.

Newborn Photographer Los Angeles

Choose simple sleeves and necklines

Whether you are holding your newborn cradled in your arms or on your chest a ruffly neckline or puffy sleeves can obscure their face. To get the best angles of your baby, I recommend that you stick to simple sleeves and necklines.

mother with sleeping newborn in arms

My absolute favorite dress for newborn sessions? The Rachel Pally Caftan. It is made of the softest modal fabric, drapes beautifully, and is the most comfortable dress I’ve ever tried on.

Ready to book your own newborn session? I’d love to hear from you!

big sister and newborn

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I photograph maternity, newborn, baby, and family sessions in and around Los Angeles. If you're interested in a session, please get in touch.

Ariel Cannon Photography | Los Angeles

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Baby girl portrait on bed

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