Planning your family’s outfits can often feel like one of the most overwhelming parts of preparing for your photography session. If you’re anything like most of the families who visit my Hertfordshire studio, you’ve probably stood in front of the wardrobe wondering where to even begin.
The good news is, it doesn’t have to be complicated.
As a newborn and family photographer in Hertfordshire, I’ve helped hundreds of families choose outfits that photograph beautifully while still feeling natural, comfortable and completely like themselves. This guide is here to help you feel confident about what to wear, what to avoid and how to create timeless photographs you’ll treasure for years to come.
Whether you’re visiting my studio for a newborn session, family portraits or your baby’s first birthday, I’ll guide you every step of the way. From my carefully curated client wardrobe to personalised styling advice, my aim is to make the whole experience feel relaxed and enjoyable from the moment you book.
Beautiful Photographs Begin With Simple Choices
Your photographs should tell your family’s story, not distract from it.
The right clothing helps create timeless images that you’ll still love decades from now. Soft colours, beautiful textures and comfortable clothing keep the focus exactly where it belongs, on the people you love most.
My photography style is light, natural and timeless. Rather than following changing trends, I create elegant portraits that capture genuine connection and emotion, so choosing clothing that complements this style makes all the difference.
You Don’t Need to Buy a Whole New Wardrobe
One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to buy a completely new wardrobe before your session.
In reality, you probably already own several pieces that will photograph beautifully.
I always recommend starting with Mum’s outfit first. Once you’ve found something that makes you feel comfortable and confident, it’s much easier to build everyone else’s outfits around it.
Choose three or four colours that complement each other and weave them throughout your family’s clothing, rather than everyone wearing exactly the same thing. This creates a beautifully coordinated look while still allowing everyone’s personality to shine through.
If you’re struggling to decide, don’t worry. Every client has access to my carefully selected client wardrobe, which includes beautiful dresses for mums as well as clothing for babies and young children. I’m also always happy to help you plan your outfits before your session, so if you’re unsure, simply send me some photos and I’ll happily guide you.
The Best Colours for Timeless Family Photographs
Soft muted colours work beautifully with my light and natural editing style.
Some of my favourite colours include:
• Cream
• Ivory
• White
• Oatmeal
• Beige
• Taupe
• Stone
• Sage
• Soft olive
• Denim
• Warm brown
Neutral certainly doesn’t have to mean boring.
One of my favourite ways to add warmth and interest to photographs is through texture. Chunky knitwear, linen, muslin, lace and soft cotton all create beautiful depth while keeping your images timeless and elegant.
What Should Mum Wear?
Flowing dresses, soft knitwear, neutral cardigans, linen fabrics and simple tops always photograph beautifully.
Choose something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. If you’ve recently had your baby, flowing fabrics can be particularly flattering and allow you to move comfortably while cuddling your little one.
Don’t be afraid to dress up a little. Your family photography session is a special occasion and the perfect excuse to wear that beautiful dress that’s been waiting in your wardrobe.
What Should Dad Wear?
Simple is always best.
Neutral knitwear, linen shirts, plain fitted T shirts, Shirts and chinos all work beautifully.
Soft shades such as cream, beige, white, olive, stone and grey complement the rest of the family’s outfits without drawing attention away from the people in the photographs.
What Should Babies Wear?
For newborn sessions, your baby doesn’t need lots of outfits.
Your little one will be photographed using my carefully chosen collection of wraps, blankets and timeless accessories, so there’s no need to buy anything special unless you have a sentimental outfit you’d love to include.
What Should Brothers and Sisters Wear?
Comfort is just as important as style.
Simple dresses, knitted jumpers, dungarees, leggings and neutral tops photograph beautifully while allowing children to move, play and enjoy the experience.
The happiest children always create the most natural smiles and genuine moments.
What to Wear for Your Newborn Photography Session
Newborn photography is all about preserving those tiny details and your baby’s very first connections as a family.
Soft neutral clothing creates a calm and peaceful feel that perfectly complements your baby’s delicate features.
Every newborn session is completely baby led, with plenty of time for feeding, cuddles and settling whenever your little one needs it. There is never any pressure to rush.
What to Wear for Your Family Photography Session
Family sessions are relaxed, playful and centred around genuine moments together.
Rather than trying to make everyone match perfectly, choose a simple colour palette and allow each family member’s personality to shine through.
If your children are wearing brand new clothes, it’s always worth trying everything on a few days beforehand to make sure they’re comfortable.
I also recommend bringing a spare outfit for younger children, just in case.
Does Your Session Location Make a Difference?
Most newborn sessions take place in my peaceful Hertfordshire studio, where every detail has been designed to create a calm and welcoming environment for new families.
The soft neutral décor complements light coloured clothing beautifully and allows your family to remain the focus of every image.
Families regularly travel to my Hertfordshire studio from Hatfield, St Albans, Harpenden, Welwyn Garden City, Potters Bar, Barnet, Stevenage, Hitchin and the surrounding areas for timeless newborn and family photography.
Think About Where Your Photographs Will Live
One thing many families don’t consider is where they’ll display their photographs.
If your home has a light, neutral or modern interior, choosing timeless clothing means your finished artwork will complement your home beautifully for years to come.
Your photographs should become part of your home and your everyday life, not something that feels dated after a few years.
What Should You Avoid Wearing?
Keeping things simple really is the secret.
I’d recommend avoiding:
• Bright neon colours
• Bright block colours
• Large logos and slogans
• Cartoon or character clothing
• Checked shirts
• Thin stripes
• Busy patterns
• Yellow clothing, as it can appear much lighter after editing due to my signature light and neutral style
The simpler your clothing, the more attention stays exactly where it belongs, on your family.
Studio Sessions
As my studio has beautiful white flooring, I usually recommend bare feet for the most timeless look.
If you’d prefer to wear shoes, please make sure they’re clean before arriving. If you’re wearing socks, clean soles make all the difference too.
Your Outfit Checklist
Before your session, remember to:
• Start with Mum’s outfit.
• Choose three or four complementary colours.
• Coordinate rather than match.
• Include texture with knitwear or linen.
• Wear clothing that feels comfortable.
• Avoid logos and busy patterns.
• Bring a spare outfit for little ones.
• Plan your outfits one to two weeks before your session.
• Send me photos if you’d like help deciding.
A Relaxed Experience From Start to Finish
From the moment you book your session, I’m here to help.
Whether you’re choosing outfits, wondering what to pack or simply feeling a little nervous, I’ll guide you every step of the way.
My aim is for you to arrive feeling relaxed, confident and excited, knowing everything has already been taken care of.
I’d Love to Welcome Your Family
If you’re expecting a new arrival or would love to update your family photographs, I’d love to welcome you to my Hertfordshire studio.
From helping you choose the perfect outfits to creating timeless photographs you’ll treasure forever, every part of the experience is designed to feel calm, personal and enjoyable.
When you walk past your photographs hanging on your wall years from now, I want you to smile and remember exactly how that season of life felt. Those moments pass so quickly, but your photographs allow you to hold onto them forever.
If you’d like to find out more about my newborn, family or first birthday photography sessions, I’d love to hear from you.
FAQ
ask me
anything
What colours look best for newborn and family photography?
Soft neutral colours such as cream, beige, white, oatmeal, taupe, sage and muted earthy tones work beautifully with my timeless photography style and create elegant photographs that never go out of fashion.
Do we all need to wear matching outfits?
Do you provide clothing for photography sessions?
Yes. My client wardrobe includes a carefully selected collection of dresses for mums, along with clothing for babies and young children, making it even easier to create a beautiful, timeless look.