Newborn Style Guide for Families

Studio family portraits can be as formal or informal as you want. Every session is unique, and since these images will adorn the walls of your home for many years to come, you are the ultimate deciding factor in how they are styled. But, I’m here to give you some pointers to make these the most beautiful portraits they can be.  

Let’s start with your background choice. I’ve given you the choice between a dark or light backdrop, or my white wood wall, or we may have discussed and agreed upon a special request setup. Generally I prefer dark clothing on dark backdrops and lighter clothing on light backdrops, as to reduce distractions and draw all the attention to the faces and the connections in your family. If you’ve chosen a dark backdrop, darker colors; such as gray, brown, or deep hues of reds, purples, or blues, will be beautiful, and you'll want to avoid white, cream, yellow, orange and bright or light tones. If you’ve chosen a light backdrop, including the white wood wall, lighter neutrals or muted tones; such as tan, sage, lilac, blush pink, and muted tones of blue work perfectly, and you'll want to stay away from black, bright or bold colors.

Now that you’ve got an idea of the hues and tones you’ll be working with, you have to decide how simple or formal you’d like your portraits. Families who choose a simple aesthetic may want to choose well-fitting, color-coordinated T-shirts for every member of the family. In some instances, parents may want to bare even more skin, and opt for a tank or tube top for Mom, and Dad can be shirtless, and young siblings can either go shirtless or wear a simple tank top, or for toddler girls, I can use a wrap to create a coordinated tube top look.

For a more dressy look, Dad can opt for a collared or collarless button-down shirt, sweater or Henley style shirt. Mom can choose the same, or opt for a blouse or dress. Siblings can wear a similar style as their parents.

Some things to avoid include; polos, graphics, logos, ball caps, athletic wear, and clothing that is too tight or loose, stained or wrinkled.

I currently have limited client closet options for Moms, as well as a few items for your newborn's young siblings on request. Please let me know the clothing size for your little one and I'll let you know what I have available. Mama closet options can be viewed here. Keep in mind that maternity gowns can absolutely be worn for studio newborn sessions, and most of the dress options included fit a range of sizes, and can be clamped for smaller mamas if needed. As always, please reach out to me directly if you have any questions.

I can't wait to photograph your family!