It's one of the most precious times for your family. You've just welcomed a new baby. Whether this is baby number one or baby number five, it's still a beautiful new life. In saying that, you have so many things going on in your head from managing feedings and pediatrician appointments to starting another load of laundry or emptying the dishwasher. There is no shortage of things to do. And that includes getting those once-in-a-lifetime newborn and family photos scheduled. You’ve searched high and low and finally, you’ve found the perfect baby photographer who will best capture this magical time for your family. But you’re facing another hurdle, “What do we all wear?”

Choosing what to wear for any photoshoot can be stressful, but when the photos will likely be printed, sent to friends and family and referenced for years to come - everything has to be perfect. Naturally, you might think the whole family (newborn included) should wear matching outfits. Overalls are pretty cute and trendy right now, but so are cowboy boots and plaid shirts. But do yourself a favor and don’t commit to this thought just yet. Keep reading to learn why.

When everyone wears matching outfits, the photos are immediately dated. Think back to photos you have seen where mom, dad, brother, sister and even the family dog all wore the same red turtleneck. Or the family who fashionably dressed in the same denim jumpsuit. And don’t forget about those who proudly donned the same “ugly sweater” as they are lovingly referred to now. Yes, it may sound like a cute, fun idea at the time, but it’s not what your photographer would recommend. Everyone should fit together at the same time in a photograph - not stand out. 

Since these once-in-a-lifetime photos include your newborn, you certainly want them to receive those ooooh’s and ahhhh’s. But you may find that reaction goes to the wayside if your whole family is wearing acid washed blue jeans and black leather jackets. The outfits will get all the attention - attention that should be focused on the beauty of the photograph. So now, anyone who looks at your photos will be drawn to the clothing. You want to avoid remarks like, “Oh wow, you’re all wearing the exact same thing.” Instead shoot for, “Oh my gosh, you all look wonderful and baby Henry is precious!” Draw the eye to your beautiful faces; not to your matching outfits.

Newborn and family photographers like Conner James Photography in Glen Carbon, Illinois, recommend coordinating - not matching. Go with colors and/or patterns that compliment each other. For example, if mom is wearing a deep red dress with a white and gold argyle pattern, everyone else in the photo should wear and highlight a color within that pattern. And don’t rule out neutrals such as black, grey or navy. These colors are classic and timeless.

The takeaway:

1). Aim to achieve a cohesive look that isn’t dated.

2). Choose coordinating colors; not matching outfits. 

3). You can’t go wrong with neutrals - use them.

4). Steer clear of bold, bright colors that distract rather than attract.

5). Select one outfit you love and build the rest of your family’s wardrobe from there.

Outgoing Links

1. [Expertise](https://www.expertise.com/)

2.[Happily Ever Photo](https://www.happilyeverphoto.com/)

3.[Professional Photographers of America](https://www.ppa.com/)

4.[Village of Glen Carbon IL Website](https://www.glencarbonil.gov/)

5.[Book Now Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow)