1. LET MOM CHOOSE HER OUTFIT FIRST.
“I think it is really important that everyone feels comfortable. I suggest that the mom selects her outfit first, and that she finds something she is comfortable in. If there are any concerns about her post-pregnancy shape then I suggest wearing something loose or with layers. If the mom is conscious of her cleavage, then I recommend a higher neckline, since I take photos from many different angles. Once mom’s outfit is selected, the partner can pick something out that he or she loves with complementary colors.”
2. KEEP IT CASUAL.
“For dads, I recommend lighter colored pants (khaki or gray) and a neutral color palette for their top. I like to photograph dads in button-ups and v-neck shirts (which are less casual than crew neck).”
3. CONSIDER WHERE THE PHOTOS WILL BE DISPLAYED.
“When choosing a newborn session wardrobe, think about the final results and how the photos will be featured in the home. For example, you wouldn’t want clothing in loud, bold colors if the home is mostly neutrals and pastels. Then again, if bold contrast is the look you’re going for, that’s fine! Just have an idea of how the final images will look in the home.”
4. GO FOR LIGHTER COLORS.
“I tell my clients to avoid wearing black as it always seems to show lint. I advise them to dress in lighter colors for a softer look, and that layering and textures are great.”
5. GET COMFY.
“I tell my newborn photography clients that I want them to be as comfortable as possible and that they should wear what’s comfortable to them. People aren’t going to photograph well if they are uncomfortable!”
6. WEAR NEUTRALS.
“I always tell my clients to wear neutral clothing for their newborn photo sessions, because it helps avoid color casts on their skin. This is a must for my sessions since I only use natural window light.”
7. INCORPORATE TEXTURES.
“When I’m photographing newborn babies, I love to bring in the element of texture to add a three dimensional effect to the images. Neutral clothing rich in texture, like lacy tops, chunky sweaters, and thick knits, work so well for newborn photos because they are timeless.”
8. DADS, ROLL UP THOSE SLEEVES.
“I love to see dads in a button-up shirt and will often ask that he roll up the sleeves. There’s something so tender about skin to skin with baby, and I like the casualness and intimacy is adds to the images.”
9. SKIP THE GRAPHIC TEES.
“I ask that my clients stray from graphic tees, as they can often be distracting and take away from the overall image. Funny words and phrases are fine in limited capacity (because, who knows, maybe it will one day tell the story of this time period) but only for a few shots. I want the story to be about the connection between baby and parents. Rather than reading the words “my mom loves me” on a shirt, I want my clients to actually see the love in the photograph.”