What to Wear to Your In-Home Newborn Session | Tips from a Ponte Vedra Newborn Photographer
When you welcome a new baby, life slows down in the best way. Those quiet, sleepy mornings and cozy cuddles at home are what make in-home newborn sessions so special. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection. What you wear should reflect that same sense of comfort and ease.
Here’s how to choose outfits that photograph beautifully while keeping everyone relaxed and true to your family’s style.
1. Keep It Soft, Simple, and Neutral
Soft, natural tones photograph best indoors. For example, colors like ivory, beige, oatmeal, dusty rose, sage, soft blue, or muted olive.
These colors let your baby’s delicate features and those tender interactions shine without distractions.
Avoid bold patterns, heavy logos, or bright reds and neons. These colors can reflect color onto your baby’s skin and pull focus away from your connection.
Pro tip: Start with one parent’s outfit (typically mom’s) and build the rest of the family’s look around it for a balanced color palette.
2. Prioritize Comfort (Especially for Mom)
You just had a baby—comfort is key. Choose flowy, forgiving fabrics that allow you to move and snuggle easily.
A maxi dress, a soft knit, or linen separates photograph beautifully and feel good to wear. Avoid anything too structured or fitted; natural movement always looks best.
If you’re nursing, pick pieces with easy access so you don’t have to pause the flow of the session.
3. Keep Baby Cozy and Barely Styled
Newborns photograph best in simple, timeless pieces—solid-colored onesies, soft wraps, or a plain diaper cover.
A neutral swaddle, textured blanket, or knit sleeper adds beautiful warmth and depth. You don’t need a full wardrobe; one or two options are plenty.
We’ll often photograph baby both wrapped and unwrapped to capture a mix of cozy and natural moments.
4. Think Texture Over Pattern
In photos, texture adds depth without stealing attention. Try layering cotton, linen, or light knits. A cozy throw blanket, quilt, or even your favorite muslin can make a big difference in how the gallery feels.
If your home has light walls or bedding, aim for slightly deeper tones in your outfits for contrast.
6. Include Personal Touches
Your in-home session is about your story. That means if there’s a meaningful blanket, handmade outfit, or heirloom item, bring it in. These little details help tell your family’s unique story and make your gallery that much more special.
7. Use My Styling Support
When you book your newborn session, you’ll receive personalized styling guidance and access to my Client Closet, which includes soft, neutral pieces for moms and babies. I’ll help you choose outfits that work with your home’s tones and lighting so everything feels cohesive and calm.
Sample stying board created for a client
Final Thoughts
What you wear should feel like you and be comfortable, beautiful, and real. The goal of your newborn session isn’t perfect posing; it’s preserving how this fleeting season feels.
If you’re expecting or recently welcomed your little one, I’d love to photograph this special chapter in your home.
📍Serving families in Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, Jacksonville, and St. Augustine, Florida
Book your in-home newborn session here.