I don’t know about you, but could there possibly be anything sweeter than seeing those heart-melting photos of a baby’s first days in the world? I think not. Newborn photos are probably one of the most sentimental memories that a family can have within the baby’s first year. From capturing those cozy sleeping moments in their precious newborn photo outfits to the accidental on-camera pees (welcome to parenthood😅), those baby photos will leave you gushing over the life that you’ve welcomed into this world.

There’s no wonder that people put a lot of planning into newborn baby photos. From finding the perfect newborn photo outfits to choosing the best photographer for you, whether you’re taking newborn photos at home or in a studio, every tiny decision counts.

According to Motherly’s Brand Consultant and mama of four, Anne Hill, there are many things that you should think about when preparing for your newborn’s photoshoot—like when you should schedule the photos to be taken, how to discuss your vision with the photographer and how to choose the best newborn photo outfits for your sweet bundle of joy.

Related: 22 of the sweetest newborn pictures

What makes a good newborn photo outfit?

Well, when it comes to choosing the best newborn photo outfits, there are many things you’re going to want to keep in mind. Are diaper changes easily accessible with the outfit you choose? Should you bring any backups? What styles or tones will look the best?

Hill shared that a well-fitting outfit that is a solid, neutral color often works best for newborn photos. Consider giving gender-neutrual baby clothes a try to get some great options.

“It helps the focus stay on the baby and not the clothes they are wearing. Neutral colors like white, cream or grey photograph well with newborn baby skin no matter their skin tone.”

Furthermore, you’ll want to make sure that the outfit is comfy and simple for your baby. The less you have to move them around or adjust their clothing, the less likely it’ll be that you’ll overstimulate them (cues a cranky baby).

How much should you expect to pay for newborn photos?

Prices for newborn photoshoots will vary upon location. According to Hill, parents can expect to spend anywhere between $300 to $800.

“The best way to plan for cost is to search for your photographer ahead of time, preferably in the second or third trimester. Search for newborn photographers in your area, then narrow down your options based on the photo style you like, cost and availability.”

Other tips to prepare for newborn photos

While we probably won’t hit every tip, these few pieces of advice given by Hill can get you started in the right direction of having a seamless newborn photoshoot experience.

1. Aim to have your newborn photoshoot between 5-10 days after their birth

“This gives you a little time to recover a bit from your labor, but still scheduled early enough that you capture your fresh and squishy newborn. The younger the baby, the easier it is for them to snooze through their photo session.”

2. Feed your baby right before the photo session

“This will help them be relaxed and happy, and in turn, help you feel relaxed and happy.”

As a photographer who has had her share of newborn photoshoots myself, I cannot emphasize this tip enough. Having your baby fed and burped means they’ll cry less and sleep better. And yes, it’s OK if your baby is asleep during photos. This makes it easier for the photographer to be able to adjust their poses and capture those peaceful moments.

Related: 10 photos to take on baby’s first day that you’ll cherish forever

3. Plan outfits ahead of time

“For your baby, yourself and your family. If you have this taken care of before the baby is born, it’s one less thing on your plate the day of.”

If your entire family will be in the photos together, still take heed to the advice of keeping neutral colors. If only baby will be in the pictures, ensure you have backup newborn photo outfits—just in case. Better safe than sorry!

4. Talk through your vision with the photographer

“If you have specific shots you want to take, make sure you tell/show your photographer ahead of time so they can add them to their shot list. You want to get everything you were looking for out of the shoot.”

So if your baby’s newborn photoshoot is approaching and you’ve got no idea what they should wear, don’t stress it mama. We’ve got you. We rounded up some of our favorite simplistic newborn photo outfits to share with you (and for you to share with others!).

13 adorable newborn photo outfits

Not sure on where to begin with newborn photo outfits? Give these 13 a try!

unisex infant gown, one of motherly's favorite newborn photo outfits

Colored Organics

$30

Infant Gown

If you’re going for a simplistic, lifestyle feel, this infant gown could be right for you. With fold-over cuffs and an adjustable tie bottom, it’s easy to get your baby in and out of. And it’s made of 100% organic cotton.

Wren baby newborn gown, cap, blanket, and mittens, a great baby photo outfit

Lou Lou and Company

$78

Wren Ribbed Ultimate Newborn Bundle

If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop, look no further. This newborn bundle has everything that you’ll need. It includes: a top knot hat, no-scratch mittens, a knit swaddle blanket, and a knotted gown. Cute, stretchy and cozy all in one!

Solly Baby Swaddle, one of motherly's favorite newborn photo outfits

Solly Baby

$25

Swaddle

Uggggh, Solly Baby. I can personally attest that their products feel like an actual cloud. Known for their absolute softness, their swaddles are a great option to keep your little one snuggly and warm. The secret? It’s made from incredibly soft TENCEL™ Modal fabric, and it’s super stretchy (meaning your little one will have lots of room to move!).

newborn knotted gown, a great outfit for newborn photos

Amazon

$26.95

Newborn Knotted Gown by Copper Pearl

Soft and stretchy, and super easy for those diaper changes you forgot to prepare for! It’s easy to snap your baby into and quickly unsnap to get them out of. Its stretchy fabric also makes it a good fit to grow with your baby

Feltman Brothers Cable Knit One Piece, an adorable outfit for newborn pictures

Feltman Brothers

$65.50

Cable Knit Longall

If you’re sentimental, using an heirloom-quality outfit is wonderful so you can save it to pass down to your child. Heirloom outfits are timeless and made to last for years down the line.

newborn swaddle, great to use in newborn pictures

Amazon

$15.99

Newborn Photography Stretch Wrap

Made specifically for those newborn photoshoots, this wrap is made from rayon material. It’s also super affordable!

newborn footed romper bodysuit, a unique newborn photo outfit

Amazon

$25.99

Mohair Bear Hat Bonnet & Footed Romper Bodysuit

Can you get any cuter than this?! This totally adorable set will have your little one melting hearts left and right!

newborn waffle wrap sets, perfect for newborn pictures

Etsy

$52

Newborn Bonnet and Wrap Set

Hand-sewn and made specifically for newborn photography use. This set is a great stretchy knit fabric and is available in three neutral colors.

newborn baby gown set, one of motherly's favorite newborn photo outfits

Etsy

$28

Newborn Baby Gown Set

Made from a rayon and spandex blend, this set is super breathable for your little. This three-piece set includes: a newborn gown, a knotted hat and top knot headband. And a plus for the tie bottom which makes it easy for those diaper changes!

White Ribbed Newborn Pants and Knot Hat Set

Sweet Baby Photo Props

$26

Ribbed Newborn Pants and Knot Hat Set

Perfect for simple looks. Perfect for more lavished looks. Perfect for whatever look you’re going for! This hat and pants set is versatile for all your newborn photoshoot needs.

footed newborn sleeper

Old Navy

$18.99

Footed Sleep & Play Rib-Knit One-Piece & Beanie Layette Set

What’s not to love about a simple zip-up footie? You can never go wrong here. And this set comes with a beanie as well!

coming home newborn set

Cater's

$16.95

3-Piece Organic Cotton Coming Home Set

For the comfiness, this set is cute and simplistic. Made from certified organic cotton, this set provides lots of room to keep your baby cool and comfy. And with a snap-front design, it’s easy to get your little one in and out of!

newborn diaper covers

Etsy

$26.11

Baby Muslin Diaper Covers

If you’d rather forgo the entire outfit, these diaper covers are simple and stylish! Made from 100% cotton, they’ll keep your little one comfy without the added pressure of getting them fully dressed or undressed. Out of all the newborn photo outfits out there, who could ask for easier than this?!