How to Dress Your Newborn Baby for a Photoshoot (and Other Helpful Tips)

Are you gearing up for your child's newborn baby photoshoot, but unsure of how to prepare for it? Do you have your backgrounds and themes picked out? If so, then you just need to learn how to dress them appropriately.

The outfit that you put your newborn into is going to make the picture. They'll look so cute snuggled into the head wraps, bows, and outfits that you put them into. Not sure where to start? We've got you covered!

See below for the ultimate newborn baby photoshoot guide and how you can prepare to make your baby's photoshoot extra special.

What Should My Baby Wear?

Some of you might be looking to secure your newborn baby's outfits before you decide on the location of the shoot or the background and props you wish to use. Others of you have those features picked out already.

Either way, there are a few pieces of apparel that can complement any theme. See below for a few tips on items you can dress your baby with for the best results.

1. Head Wraps

Maybe you've got the outfit picked out, but you need something to put atop their head to complete the look. Perhaps you're choosing neutral-colored apparel for the shoot and want one signature piece to make a statement.

Headwraps can be the perfect solution. They come in all different shapes, materials, sizes, and colors, so you're sure to find something that's unique.

Be sure to shop our headwraps inventory so that you can find one or two that you can try on your little girl for your newborn baby photo shoot. It will make your little one look happy and vivacious!

2. Decorative Swaddles

Seriously, is there anything cuter than a newborn baby tucked into a comfy swaddle? We didn't think so! 

You can choose to either use one of the swaddled you may already have, turn a blanket into a makeshift swaddle, or invest in a decorative swaddle for the photoshoot.

We offer all kinds of different patterns for our decorative swaddled such as swans, leopard print, butterflies, white floral, dusty rose floral, light blue floral, and dusty blue floral.

3. Linen Bows

Perhaps you want an item that can contrast the large bow size on a headwrap. If so, then a linen bow offers a tremendous solution.

Linen bows are soft and delicate, making them appear comfortable and cozy, perfect for your newborn baby photoshoot. They work in any photo where you've laid them down on a comfy blanket, boppy pillow, or any other soft material. 

Feel free to look into our linen bow collection for several awesome color combinations that we know you'll like. Buy a few to mix and match the different props and backgrounds you use during the shoot!

When Should I Schedule the Shoot?

This is the trickiest part for most parents. You want to get the cutest little newborn baby photos possible, but how early is too early? 

We recommend shooting for as early as possible. In fact, most experienced newborn photographers will tell you to shoot for around 5 to 7 days after your little nugget has been born.

That's the perfect time window to ensure that you and your spouse have had time to rest, while also having your little one look as new to the world as possible.

We know it can be stressful to schedule something so quickly after the birth, especially if it's your firstborn. But remember, you want to make sure you have photos to show how little and precious your baby was when they first came into the world.

There's nothing wrong with keeping your photographer on standby until the baby is born, feeling it out, then committing to something within the first week or so.

Should I Hire a Photographer of DIY?

We know that the budget can get a little tight when the baby first arrives. It's for that reason that some parents consider turning the newborn baby photoshoot into a DIY project, rather than hiring a professional photographer.

Truth be told, only you can make that decision. But here are a few questions you can ask yourself to determine which way you should go:

  • Do you have experience with photography?
  • Do you have a friend or relative with photography experience that you could hire?
  • Do you have a preference for the quality of the photos?
  • Do you need recommendations on themes and props?

Professional newborn photographers are great because they have experience working with babies and getting them into many different cute positions.

Should I Do Anything to Prepare for the Shoot?

The number one priority before the newborn baby photoshoot should be to make sure your little one has gotten rest and has been fed before pictures begin.

Try to keep the photoshoot's location either in your house or somewhere nearby. Remember, even an hour is a long time for a newborn.

If you're hosting the photoshoot in your home, make sure that the climate is nice and warm to keep your baby comfortable and snoozing. As long as the house is cozy, they won't care what you dress them in or how you position them!

Prepare for Your Newborn Baby Photoshoot Today

Now that you have seen an in-depth guide highlighting some of the most common questions regarding a newborn baby photoshoot, be sure to use this information to your advantage.

Be sure to read this article for more information and guidance on the top baby hair bows and other cute accessories for your shoot.

For more inquiries, please be sure to reach out via our contact us page and we will be happy to assist you further.


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