Welcome and Congrats! Let's get into what you need to know to prepare for your newborn session.Newborn portraits are all about softness and simplicity.The outfits you, your baby, and your family wear should never compete with the little details.
This guide was designed to take the stress out of planning what to wear. You’ll find suggestions for moms, partners, siblings, and of course your newborn.Every decision we make, from the wraps I use to the tones you wear, is about creating photographs that will stand the test of time.
There’s more info too. I have an in-depth exclusive client guide ready for you when you book a newborn session with me.
BOOK NOWDuring newborns sessions, your babyis the one in charge.tyling choices are always made with their comfort and needs in mind. Babies will need to feed, nap, be soothed, and changed throughout the session — and that’s exactly how it should be.
The baby-led approach also means that we don’t need a huge variety of looks. Unlike other types of sessions, where multiple outfits might be part of the plan, newborn styling is most beautiful when it’s simple. A few thoughtfully chosen wraps, a cozy onesie, and one or two neutral outfits for parents and siblings is often more than enough.
In the studio, newborn styling focuses on wraps and minimal clothing. Newborns photograph best when they’re swaddled or dressed in simple, well-fitted pieces that allow us to capture their tiny details without distraction.Wraps are one of the most versatile options in the studio. They can be styled in countless ways — from a full swaddle that shows off baby’s round cheeks to a looser wrap that allows tiny fingers or toes to peek through.
For in-home newborn sessions, the styling shifts slightly to reflect the cozy, everyday feel of your own environment.Soft gowns, ribbed cotton sets, or simple muslin onesies are perfect choices. These pieces feel lived-in but still elevated, and they allow your baby to remain comfortable during the session.
In the early days of motherhood, comfort is everything — and your wardrobe choices for your newborn session should reflect that.hoose fabrics that breathe and move — cotton, linen, chiffon, or soft jersey are all wonderful. Avoid anything too stiff or structured.
Neutral shades are always best, but muted tones like dusty rose, sage, or oatmeal also photograph beautifully. Delicate jewelry like small earrings or a simple chain can add a polished touch, but avoid anything chunky or overly shiny. The focus should remain on you and your baby, not on what you’re wearing.
Partners often feel like the easiest part of the wardrobe puzzle, but they’re just as important for creating a cohesive look.Great options include linen or cotton button-down shirts, henleys, or well-fitted tees in colors like cream, sage, light gray, or taupe. Pair them with chinos, khakis, or clean, dark jeans for a look that feels effortless but still pulled together.
Because I do offer siblings to be part of the photoshoot during lifestyle sessions I have some advise on for them as well. If they are older kiddosfollow the same advice for them as you would yourself or your partner. If they are younger keep it soft and simple. The focus should still be on the new baby and having them wear something that could overpoer the purpose of this session is not what you want. For toddlers, rompers, muslin sets, cotton dresses, or soft knit overalls are ideal,and stay awy from bold colors, and busy patterns.
I have a curated client closet that is complimentary for all clients and includes gowns for new moms, wraps and outfits for newborns, and neutral toddler clothing for siblings sizes 3t and smaller.
For moms, the closet offers a selection of flowy gowns and dresses in soft, neutral tones.
For newborns, I keep a range of wraps, sleepers, and tiny outfits in shades like cream, taupe, blush, and sage. These pieces are simple, breathable, and cozy.
If siblings are included, my closet extends to toddler pieces as well. Soft muslin rompers, cotton dresses, and knit sets are available in muted shades that coordinate beautifully with the rest of the family.
One of the most meaningful ways to personalize your newborn session is by incorporating props that aresentimental to you.Popular sentimental items often include heirloom blankets, handmade quilts, or baby toys passed down through generations.
also encourage families to think outside the box. Maybe it’s a baseball glove that has significance, a knitted hat made by a grandparent, or the veil you wore on your wedding day. Adding something that is meaningful to you, will make these pictures all the more special.
Styling a newborn session isn’t just about dressing your baby — it’s about creating a cohesive look for the entire family. When everyone’s outfits work together, your gallery feels balanced and timeless.
If you choose a cream gown from the client closet for yourself, your partner might wear muted sage or taupe, and your toddler could wear a soft oatmeal romper. These tones don’t match exactly, but they harmonize beautifully. By using shades that complement one another, you avoid looking too uniform while still keeping the overall look cohesive.
Remember: the goal isn’t perfection. It’s about balance and simplicity. Coordinating means that everyone looks like they belong together without looking staged.
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Thistle and Bloom Photography specializes in maternity photography, newborn photography, and milestone photography sessions. Our service areas include Seattle, Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Montlake Terrace, Edmonds, Lynnwood, Bothell, Kenmore, Mill Creek, Everett, and other cities in the Greater Puget Sound area.
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