What to wear for your newborn session

As a Newborn Photographer working in Washington DC, one of the most frequently asked questions I get from clients is “do you have any advice on what to wear?” And after nearly ten years of photographing in-home newborn sessions, I can safely say I have some expertise in this subject! Read along for my top tips for choosing your wardrobe - for you and your family - for an at-home newborn session.

tip no. 1

The number one piece of advice I have regarding what to wear for your newborn session is for everyone to look like they are going to the same event. Whether that’s brunch, church, the office, or just the sofa - picking a “dress code” is the best place to start.

tip no. 2

The second most important piece of advice I have for newborn session style is to be comfortable - especially if you have just given birth. This is not the time to try and make something work that doesn’t fit - be kind to your body and you will feel so much better about the images. Long dresses or flowy tops are popular choices for women, and if you are breastfeeding, be sure to wear something that you can easily nurse in.

tip no. 3

Another fit-related tip: during your at home newborn session, you will be sitting (likely on the bed) as well as standing and holding baby in your arms - choose an outfit that allows you to comfortable do these things and is flattering in various positions.

tip no. 4

Consider your home decor - since we are photographing in your home (often in the primary bedroom and nursery - but really anywhere that is relatively neutral and has good light), you’ll want to choose a color palette that compliments your decor. It will also look cohesive when choosing what images to display after your recieve your gallery! Many clients choose a neutral palette.

tip no. 6

Consider textures and lean in to soft and cozy. Broken-in oxfords and chinos or denim, sweaters, flowy poplin dresses and tops with smocking, eyelet lace, or swiss dot fabric can all enhance a neutral palette while staying soft. A shawl or oversized cardigan can also come in handy.

tip no. 7

Finally, whatever you choose, be sure to have a backup outfit for everyone, because spit up and blowouts don’t care if it’s time for pictures!

Amanda Reynolds is the Washington DC-based photographer at PLUME Photography. She specializes in elegant and effortless newborn, maternity, baby, family and Heirloom Portrait photography in the DC area, including Alexandria, VA, McLean, VA, Chevy Chase, MD and beyond.

If you are expecting and would like to book PLUME Photography for Newborn and Maternity photography, please reach out to Amanda here.