After you have booked in your session date, the first question you might ask is “what should we wear?”
Here are 5 tips on what to wear when planning a lifestyle newborn session.
Tip 1 – Start with Neutrals.
As far as clothing? Keep it simple. Throw in a little colour if you’d like, but skip the busy patterns (especially stripes and spots, or clothes with too many graphics). Start with a neutral palate. Newborns should be the star of the show when it comes to the session; so dressing in bright colours or busy patterns often is distracting to the viewer. Neutrals do not have to mean a plain white T-shirt and jeans. I consider neutrals as a palate of likeness (grey, tan, cream, brown, white, ivory, soft blue, soft pink, etc.) An easy way to navigate is pick three to four colours (if including denim) MAX. Please do not match everyone. Create all outfits so that they work together.
Tip 2, Stay away from black
I know you may think to wear black as it is known to be the most flattering choice of clothing, but I find it too harsh for lifestyle photography. It can be great for a couple of shots if you want some moody imagery to add to your gallery but for the most part light and airy works best.
Tip 3, Have some back up options.
You may get pooped on!!!! Have some backup options. Your baby is going to be in the buff for a portion of this shoot. Please don’t panic if your baby decides to use my blankets (or us) as his/her own personal potty. (side note: its almost ALWAYS daddy that get’s pood on!!!) I’m sorry in advance because I find it so hilarious! I wash all of my baby wraps and blankets between each session with non-scented baby detergent. It would definitely be helpful if you had a stack of old towels, extra wipes and blankets available for when things get messy though.
Tip 4, Look for COMFORT, for you and baby
At the end of the day you want to feel comfortable for your session. Don’t choose clothing that is too tight or doesn’t fit you nicely. Comfortable light coloured leggings, or jeggings might me your choice paired with a flowy blouse, or cami. You may like to wear a soft knit jumper to snuggle your baby in (if its winter). You could choose a flowy dress, that you can still easily feed in but it makes you feel feminine. It might be a dress you liked to wear when you were still pregnant. Lace and frills are gorgeous and soft fabrics with texture work well too. Also think of the fabrics you choose. If the clothing feels itchy or prickly on your skin it will feel 10 times worst for your bub. Choose soft fabrics such as cotton, bamboo, wool, silk for examples.
Tip 5, Treat yourself
I know! You just had a baby and aren’t feeling your best. But this is the perfect time to pamper yourself! If it just feels like too much to do your own hair with the lack of sleep you have had, organise a mobile hair + makeup artist, schedule a massage or have your nails done. Looking super relaxed and at your best will make you feel more comfortable during the session. This is an exciting time in your life and we want to capture all of that…so take care of yourself first. Also let me know if you want me to pick up some coffees or sweets on the way to your house!!!
I adore documenting lifestyle newborn sessions because my clients can incorporate more of themselves into the session…that is what makes every session so unique. Your home décor, the colours and of course your style might play a part in what clothing you choose. The images I capture are to create natural and candid photos of you enjoying family time in your home space.