Parents leaning over crib and looking down at newborn laying in diaper
I'm Sara

I'm an Oakland lifestyle photographer specializing in authentic newborn and family photography. With 15 years in early childhood special education, I bring a patient, relationship-based approach to every session.

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One of the most common questions I get before an in-home Bay Area newborn session is what to wear. The short answer is: keep it simple. The longer answer is below.

The images throughout this post are from a real session, so you can see how these choices actually look in a home environment.

Dress for Comfort

Your session will be full of natural moments — rocking in your favorite chair, leaning over the crib, snuggling on the bed. Choose clothing that allows for movement and feels like an extension of your everyday life. Soft fabrics — cotton, linen, a worn-in knit — tend to photograph well and just feel right when you’re holding a newborn.

For parents:

Think simple dresses, casual button-downs, soft sweaters. If you’re nursing, choose something with easy access. Beyond that, wear something you actually feel good in — that reads in photos more than any specific style.

For siblings:

Let their personalities shine while staying within your chosen color palette. Avoid large logos and overly busy patterns, but if they have a favorite outfit they feel great in, embrace it. Comfortable kids make for natural, joyful photos.

For newborns:

Simplicity is best. A plain onesie, a cozy swaddle, or just a diaper can create the most timeless images. Avoid anything with tight elastic or fasteners that could leave marks or cause discomfort.

Choose Neutral Tones for a Soft, Cohesive Look

Neutral tones create a soft, cohesive look and keep the focus on your baby and your family. Shades like warm whites, creams, soft grays, and muted earth tones tend to photograph beautifully and blend naturally with your home.

Coordinated, not matchy. Two or three tones that feel like they belong together is enough.

mom and dad leaning over crib at newborn with blanket draped over her as she turns to try to look towards window
mom sitting in window bench seat holding newborn and feeing her a bottle next to the crib
dad holding newborn with standing next to him supporting baby's head and both parents are looking down and smiling at the baby
mom sitting on bed in a white dress looking down at newborn as she gives her a bottle
newborn resting head on dad's chest and looking at camera with eyes wide open at home
profile of newborn in flowered dress in mom and dad's hands
dad holding and kissing baby next to window at home while mom stands next to them smiling at newborn and holding her foot
newborn legs and feet on mom and dad's bed
newborn laying on bed looking at camera and mom leaning over baby and kissing her cheek
newborn in diaper laying on her tummy on parents' bed next to large light-colored dog
newborn in diaper on her tummy propping herself up with her arms and eyes wide open

Consider the Season

Bay Area weather can be unpredictable, so it’s worth thinking about fabrics ahead of time. Lightweight layers work well in warmer months; a soft cardigan or knit adds both warmth and texture when it’s cooler. If we’re heading outside at any point, dressing for the weather helps everyone stay comfortable.

Add Personal Touches

Some of the most meaningful images include small details that reflect your family. If there’s a special blanket, an heirloom piece, or a sentimental gift from a loved one, we can subtly incorporate it into your session.

Over the years, families have included everything from a grandparent’s rocking chair to a handmade quilt — and even a jar of maple syrup from the family business. These details add another layer of meaning to your images.

newborn in bath holder in bathtub draped in pink washcloth as mom holds a cup to pour water over baby
wet newborn with towel over her head draped over mom's shoulder in bathroom at home

Practical Tips for a Smooth Newborn Session

A little preparation can help your session feel effortless:

  • Have a backup outfit ready for yourself and baby
  • Keep extra swaddles or blankets nearby
  • If nursing, consider an easy-access top
  • Have a few essentials within reach, such as a pacifier or burp cloth

And most importantly, relax. These sessions are about connection, not perfection.

It’s About More Than What You Wear

What you wear matters less than you think. The sessions that resonate most are the ones where everyone feels comfortable and present — and that has nothing to do with the outfit.

If you’re planning an in-home newborn session in Oakland, the East Bay, or anywhere in the Bay Area, learn more about my newborn sessions or get in touch to start planning.

Want to keep exploring? Here are a few good places to start.

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