What to Wear for a Studio Photo Shoot: Simple Tips for Timeless Children’s Portraits
In my studio, I focus on creating timeless, classic portraits with a minimalist aesthetic. The background and styling are kept neutral and soft so that your child is always the center of attention. Choosing the right outfit helps elevate the entire image. Here’s what I recommend when preparing for your session.
1. Keep It Neutral
Soft, neutral tones photograph beautifully and complement the aesthetic of my studio. Think shades like:
Ivory
Beige
Cream
Soft gray
Pale browns
Light pastels (optional, if very muted)
Avoid: bold colors, logos, and busy patterns that can distract from your child’s expression and the overall image.
2. Choose Simple, Classic Pieces
Timeless wardrobe pieces ensure your photos don’t look dated over time. Some great options include:
Linen or cotton rompers
Knit sweaters or cardigans
Classic overalls
Button-up shirts or dresses with minimal embellishment
Bare feet (adorable and natural for younger kids!)
3. Best Fabrics for Studio Portraits
Natural fabrics photograph better than synthetics. They have a beautiful texture and fall nicely on the body. Recommended fabrics:
Linen
Cotton
Wool (for winter sessions)
Soft knits
These add subtle dimension without taking attention away from your child.
4. Consider the Fit
Clothes should fit well—not too tight or too loose. A slightly oversized sweater or a flowing dress can look lovely, but too much fabric can overwhelm a small frame.
5. Accessories (Less is More)
Keep accessories minimal and timeless:
A simple bow or headband
A knit bonnet for babies
Avoid shoes when possible—bare feet feel more natural in my studio setting.
6. For Siblings or Family Portraits
Stick to a cohesive palette—everyone in similar tones (not matching, but complementary). This brings unity without being too uniform.
7. Dark and Moody Style.
If you’re going for that dark and moody vibe in your photos, I’d say stick to dark colors like navy blue, black, or dark gray.
Personally, navy’s my favorite. I usually shoot with gray or black backdrops to get that look.
8. A Note on Comfort
Make sure your child is comfortable and can move freely. The more relaxed they feel, the more natural and joyful the images will be.
When in doubt, send me photos of your outfit ideas—I’m always happy to help you choose! My goal is to create a calm, beautiful setting where your child can shine.