What to Wear for Your Newborn Session: My Thoughts as a Hampton Roads Newborn Photographer

Newborn

The number one question I get as a Hampton Roads newborn photographer is what do we wear to our session. I know this part can feel stressful, which is why I send over a styling guide as soon as my client books their session, and I always offer my help! Before I was a newborn photographer in Hampton Roads, I was a fashion teacher and have a degree in fashion, so the styling is one of my favorite parts and I LOVE IT. I know that you want to feel your best (and I want you to feel that way also!!).

Looking for some styling tips from a Hampton Roads newborn photographer?

Let’s chat about some, the whole family included.

The Color Palette

I always think of color first, as it makes a big difference in the entire look + final outcome of the photos. I recommend neutrals and muted pastels for all of my photos, and especially for newborn sessions. These colors photograph best – they leave your skin tones looking beautiful, and most of all, they keep the attention on your sweet new baby! Whites, creams, tans + grays are classic and will keep your photos timeless.

It’s best to avoid neon colors, and really large or distracting prints or logos. Again, we want to keep the focus on your baby and family!

Mom dad and newborn standing in pink nursery by Hampton Roads newborn photographer Ashley Brickner
Mom holding newborn looking down at toddler girl standing by windows by Hampton Roads newborn photographer Ashley Brickner
Mom in white dress holding newborn baby standing in master bedroom by Hampton Roads newborn photographer Ashley Brickner

What should mom wear?

For all my Hampton Roads newborn sessions, I suggest that mom picks her outfit first, and then pulls colors from that look to select outfits for the rest of the family. I also recommend flowy dresses rather than tight fitting clothing. All clients who book a newborn session with me have access to my client closet which is curated with dresses that have ideal colors and silhouettes that will photograph beautifully! I love offering this option to moms so that they don’t have to invest in a new dress and most importantly, so they don’t even have to think about this in those first few weeks after having a baby.

*I also offer a natural lit studio available for all my sessions, for more information on that, click this link.

Mom in white dress holding swaddled newborn baby girl standing in white kitchen by Hampton Roads newborn photographer Ashley Brickner
Mom holding newborn baby boy and kissing toddler girl on white bed by Hampton Roads newborn photographer Ashley Brickner

What should dad wear?

For dads, I typically suggest opting for neutral colors while avoiding clothing with graphics or logos. The “dad” uniform (a white collared shirt + khakis) always works and will keep your photos looking timeless. Keep it simple and don’t feel the need to overthink it!

Mom and dad holding swaddled newborn twins in studio by Hampton Roads newborn photographer Ashley Brickner
Mom and dad standing in pink floral nursery holding swaddled baby girl

What should big siblings (if applicable) wear?

Again, when it comes to siblings – neutral colors work best! Stick to outfits that coordinate with mom, dad + baby (they don’t have to perfectly match and in most cases, it will look better if they don’t!). Try to avoid loud patterns or graphics + logos! Shoes are not always necessary, especially with studio or in-home sessions. It’s one less thing to think about! I just always recommend that if one person doesn’t wear shoes, it’s best for the whole family not to (and the other way around, not including the baby of course!).

Family of five in neutral clothing in studio looking at newborn baby boy
Mom looking down at toddler girl and swaddled newborn baby boy

What should baby wear?

All Hampton Roads newborn sessions booked with me have access to plenty of neutral swaddles, bloomers, + a few outfits that photograph beautifully for both baby boys and baby girls. Many of my clients don’t bring anything for baby because I have really all you need! 🙂 However, if you have a special outfit or blanket that you would like to use, let’s do it! Just remember the same styling tips shared above to keep the focus on your precious, perfect little baby.

Newborn baby boy in blue knit romper laying in basket with white blankets
Swaddled twin babies in moms arms in studio in Hampton Roads

If you are searching for a newborn photographer, I would love the opportunity to connect with you and chat about your dream session! You can email me at ashleybricknerphoto@gmail.com or inquire here, I would love to document this special season with you!

February 5, 2026

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