Welcome!
I’m so excited to photograph your newborn session! These portraits are more than just pictures—they’re heirlooms. Whether we're shooting in a cozy studio, your home, or a corner or out in a golden field, your session is all about capturing connection, emotion, and the beauty of your family. I want you to feel confident, stylish, and completely yourself.
At Ericka Deanna Photography, I focus on timeless, fine art portraiture that highlights emotion and elegance. This guide will help take the stress out of figuring out what to wear by providing inspiration, tips, and curated outfit ideas so everyone shows up looking and feeling their best.
Styling Tips
Coordinate, don’t match: Choose a color palette and build outfits around complementary tones and textures rather than everyone wearing the exact same thing.
Neutrals are your best friend: Think ivory, soft taupe, warm beige, muted olive, dusty blue, or soft blush. They photograph beautifully and won’t distract from your faces.
Layers + textures: Add interest with knits, lace, linen, or soft cottons. Layers like cardigans, shawls, or accessories give your photos more dimension.
Avoid logos & busy patterns: Subtle patterns like florals or stripes are okay in moderation but avoid bold prints or logos.
Comfort = confidence: Make sure everyone feels good in what they’re wearing. When you’re comfortable, it shows.
Outfit Inspiration
Classic Neutrals
Adults: Cream, blush, or oatmeal maxi dress, soft blouse with flowy skirt, or jumpsuit in warm taupe.
Adults: Khaki chinos with a white button-down or henley.
Kids: Knit rompers, linen dresses, or suspenders over neutral tops.
Garden Vibe
Adults: Floral midi dress, puff sleeves or ruffle details.
Adults: Slim chinos and a button-up in a pale blue or moss green.
Kids: Light cotton dresses, overalls, or bloomers with a floral accent.
SOFT COLOR POPS
Adults: Blush, dusty blue, sage green, or soft lavender dresses.
Adults: Light tan or blue pants with a subtle patterned or solid shirt.
Adults: Add a pop with a headband, bow, or shoes in soft blue or ivory
WHAT TO DRESS BABY IN
Newborns are most comfortable and photograph beautifully in simple, soft pieces. I recommend:
- Swaddles: Neutral, solid-colored swaddles are timeless and keep the focus on your baby. Soft fabrics like muslin or stretchy knits work best. Bring along one or two favorites in creams, whites, tans, or muted tones.
- Onesies: A plain, fitted onesie (short-sleeve or long-sleeve) in a neutral color is perfect for layering or for a simple, classic look on its own. Avoid logos, bold patterns, or bright colors.
- Diaper covers or bloomers: These are a great option if you’d like some photos of baby with just a diaper—covers keep things looking polished.
- Accessories: Keep these minimal. A delicate bow, bonnet, or knit hat can add a sweet touch without distracting from your baby’s features.
The simpler, the better—neutral tones and soft textures will give your photos a timeless feel and keep the attention right where it belongs: on your little one.
Preparing Your Home for Your Newborn Session
Your home doesn’t need to be picture-perfect — promise! My goal is to capture the love and connection in this season, not spotless counters or perfectly folded laundry. That said, a few simple touches can help create a calm, beautiful backdrop for your images:
Let the Light In
Open all curtains and blinds before I arrive. Natural light is our best friend for soft, dreamy images, and I’ll move us around the house based on where the light is best.
Tidy Select Spaces
Focus on the areas we’re most likely to shoot in — typically the nursery, primary bedroom, and living room. Just a quick declutter (think: nightstands, counters, and throw blankets) goes a long way.
Keep Baby Cozy
Have a few swaddles, a neutral onesie, and any meaningful items (like a handmade blanket or heirloom toy) nearby. I bring everything we need, but personal touches always add to the story.
Set the Mood
Warm the home slightly (babies love a cozy space), and feel free to play soft music. I want this to feel more like a slow morning at home than a photo shoot.
Don’t Stress
Your baby may need to eat, be changed, or be snuggled throughout the session — and that’s perfectly normal. We’ll follow their lead and document all the sweet, in-between moments.
Preparing for a Newborn Session at the Studio
If your newborn session is taking place at my studio, there’s very little you need to prepare. The space is designed to feel warm, natural, and comfortable so you can simply arrive and settle in.
At the studio, you’ll have access to:
- A beautiful crib and cozy rocker for lifestyle style moments
- A small collection of neutral swaddles
- Simple, timeless props that photograph naturally
The studio is styled with soft light and minimal distractions, allowing the focus to remain on your baby and your connection as a family. I’ll guide you through everything during the session, so there’s no pressure to know what to do or how to pose. All you really need to bring is your baby, any sentimental items you’d like included, and yourselves. I’ll take care of the rest!
Session Prep Tips
To help your session run smoothly, I always recommend trying on your outfits ahead of time to make sure everything fits comfortably and looks how you imagined. Take a few minutes to iron or steam your clothing so everything photographs clean and polished. If little ones are joining, it's a great idea to bring a backup outfit just in case—accidents happen! Be sure to eat beforehand so everyone arrives feeling their best, and plan to show up a few minutes early to settle in and relax. Most importantly, embrace the real, unscripted moments. Some of the most beautiful photos come from genuine laughs, cuddles, and connection.
I can't wait to photograph your sweet family!
XO - Ericka