One of the top questions I get asked after a client books is: “What should dad wear to a lifestyle newborn session?” Since this is a question I get so often, so I figured let’s talk about it in a blog post! When you book a lifestyle newborn session with me, I will send a style guide with lots of tips on what mom, baby, siblings, and yes, even what dad should wear.
So, what exactly should dad wear to a lifestyle newborn session?
Before I get into specifics, the first rule is dad should be comfortable. Lifestyle newborn photography sessions take place in the comfort of your family’s home, and take a more relaxed approach, so there is no need to dress up too fancy!
Dads should keep it as basic and simple as possible.
DO:
- Wear neutral colors, like greys, off-white, creams, tans or blues.
- Wear a light cotton t-shirt, a fitted henley or simple button down shirt.
- Wear fitted tops (not baggy).
- Wear jeans, or khaki pants.
- Go barefoot, or solid colored socks.
DON’T:
- No bright or bold colors!
- Avoid all black, or all white.
- Graphic tees, or shirts with logos, as these can be very distracting.
- No shorts please! Men photograph much nicer in pants. 🙂
Don’t forget that it will be warm in your home!
Babies get cold very easily, and a cold baby is an unhappy baby. So, I will have you crank that heat, especially if its winter. If dad gets warm easily, he may want to opt for something short sleeved.
A lot of times when I get to a newborn session, dads have several options out, and together we pick the best one. So, don’t worry dads, I got you covered!
Siblings should wear something that is plain and neutral for newborn photos.
The point of your session is to highlight baby, but also your love as a family. Older siblings will be in, snuggling in close, holding baby, or laying next to baby. Selecting neutral tones allows for the connection to shine and not the outfits. Plus, bright colors can reflect onto baby’s skin leaving a color cast (think bright pink or green on baby’s face….not something you want).
Siblings should wear something that they are comfortable in.
You are in your own home. Let your kids be comfortable. They are already dealing with life in the new role of big brother or sister, so let’s not add by forcing them into an uncomfortable outfit.
You also don’t want them in something that is big and bulky so that they can’t snuggle up to (or even hold) baby.
For boys, jeans and a t-shirt or polo work well. Girls could wear leggings and a simple top or even a simple dress. Just remember that younger kids are likely to still play, dance and flit about. So having shorts or tights under dresses along with outfits they can move in is ideal.
Overall, less is more for in-home newborn photos. You want to coordinate and dress nicely, but really the goal is to be casual and comfortable. Outfits that allow you to snuggle in together and focus on baby is what is best.