What Do We Wear for our Lifestyle Newborn Photo Session!? | Newborn Photography in Shadyside, Pittsburgh

In this post I’ll answer the question, “What Do We Wear for our Lifestyle Newborn Photo Session!?”. I’ll also be sharing images from a recent newborn session with this precious baby girl and her parents in their lovely Shadyside home in Pittsburgh.

Can I just comment on a few things first before I dive into talking about clothing…

Mom is just gorgeous.
Her baby is so completely precious and slept most of our session.
Although they were not quite done decorating, I absolutely love the color of the walls they chose for her nursery!

And how sweet is this Daddy with his baby girl!?

I love Mom and Dad’s selection of clothing and colors for their session.

As someone who’s not all that fashion-savvy, I know the stress and confusion you’re probably experiencing right now. However, over the years I’ve learned what looks best for photos and I’m happy to offer some suggestions.

I know it’s easier said than done, but please do not overthink it.

Whatever you do, DO NOT run out and buy everyone new outfits. Chances are, you already have the perfect outfits in your closets.

And Mama, you JUST had a baby! Please dress comfortably in leggings and a comfy loose-fitting shirt or sweater.

Please keep it comfortable and casual!

So, back to colors…

Creams, pastels, neutrals, and earth tones are always a good choice. I also love shades of grays and blues.

Things to avoid:

Bold colors like orange, red, or lime green.

Black pants are ok but I prefer you do not wear a black shirt.

Whatever you do, do not dress in matching denim or khakis and crisp white shirts. 😆
Remember that was once a thing?

No matchy-matchy, ok!?

Focus instead on choosing outfit colors that complement one another.

Also, please avoid shirts with logos or characters (especially for older siblings). This is distracting.

What about the baby!?

For baby, I suggest the same color options. I tell parents to pick out a couple of their favorite sleepers and/or onesies. You can always change baby partway through the session.

You can also pick out a couple of your favorite blankies for me to wrap baby in.

I do ask that you avoid fancy outfits. New babies tend to get “lost” in a fancy little outfit or dress and it can make them uncomfortable.

I feel that the most important aspect here is that everyone is comfortable!

But in all honestly, what you wear will not matter all that much. Seriously. Please do not strive for a Pinterest-perfect wardrobe.

I’m more worried about you all being comfortable and relaxed so I can photograph your real and authentic selves and the connection between you and your partner and your precious new bundle of joy.

Even if that precious bundle of joy is screaming during a wardrobe and diaper change.
I actually love to get a few photos of baby crying!

I want to tell your unique and beautiful family story so ultimately, it doesn’t matter what you are wearing.

Ok, so if you’re thinking what I am saying is crazy, then I have to honestly say that I’m probably not the photographer for you. And guess what, that is 100% totally ok! There are some amazing photographers out there that would love to curate a wardrobe for you!

There are even some studio photographers that have dresses you can wear and they provide outfits and fancy little props to put on your baby.

Some of them even offer additional services like hair and makeup prior to your session!

However, that is just not my style. After many years in business, I have learned that I’m not the photographer for everyone. I wouldn’t want someone that is looking for a perfectly styled portrait session with a Pinterest-perfect wardrobe to hire me and possibly be disappointed.

But, if you’re looking for a photographer to capture the real you and authentic moments that tell the story of your family with your new baby, then I’m the photographer for you. Let’s chat and start planning a unique session for you and your unique family!

I hope this post helped answer your question, “What Do We Wear for our Lifestyle Newborn Photo Session!?”.

You can learn more about my newborn sessions here,
and go have a look at my newborn gallery! 

Do you have more questions or concerns about a photo session?
I’d love to answer them for you!

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Here are some other posts that you’ll want to check out!

If you’re looking for a newborn photographer in the greater Pittsburgh or Youngstown Ohio areas,  
please get in touch to inquire about a session!  


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~All images by Mary Beth Miller Photography ~

Mary Beth Miller Photography has over twelve years of experience and specializes in newborn photo sessions in Pittsburgh PA and many of the surrounding areas.