The answer is... Nothing!
I prefer newborns in just a diaper so that I can use soft fabric to wrap the baby instead of using an oversized onesie. If you prefer your baby dressed in a simple onesie outfit for your family photo make sure it's a proper fitting item before the session date.
I like to make newborn sessions as simple as possible for parents and for me! Bring me a happy baby and I'll do the swaddling and the shushing and you get to sit back and relax. Some days my baby whispering skills are on point... other times a parent will take the lead. We go with the flow as the baby is always the boss.
Why being prop and outfit free is the best for newborns...
Newborn photography has become an increasingly popular trend in recent years. These photographs capture the precious first days of a baby's life, and parents want to remember every detail of their little one's early days. While many newborn photographers use a variety of outfits and props to create stunning photographs, it's important to remember that babies don't need all of that to look beautiful in their pictures. In fact, some of the most stunning and memorable newborn photographs are those that showcase the baby's natural beauty and innocence.
One of the benefits of not using outfits or props in newborn photography is that it allows the baby's natural beauty to shine through. Without the distraction of a cute little hat or a fluffy blanket, the focus remains on the baby's tiny features - their wrinkly skin, their delicate eyelashes, and their chubby little hands and feet. These simple photographs capture the essence of what it means to be a newborn, and they serve as a beautiful reminder of just how precious and fragile these little ones are.
Another advantage of foregoing outfits and props in newborn photography is that it creates a more relaxed and comfortable environment for the baby. While it can be fun to dress babies up in cute little outfits, it's important to remember that they're still adjusting to life outside of the womb. Swaddling them in soft blankets and laying them on a cozy bed or in a parent's arms can be much more soothing and calming than trying to wrangle them into an elaborate costume or prop.
Not using props or outfits also allows for more natural and candid poses. When a baby is left to lie naturally, they may curl up in a fetal position, which is a pose that they are familiar with from their time in the womb. This can create a more intimate and personal photograph, as the baby appears comfortable and relaxed.
Natural poses can also capture the baby's personality and unique traits, such as a quirk of the eyebrow or the way they curl their toes.
Of course, there is nothing wrong with using outfits and props in newborn photography if that is what the parents desire. It can be fun to create a themed photoshoot, such as a sports-themed setup. However, it's important to remember that the focus should always be on the baby and their natural beauty. The outfit or prop should enhance the photograph, not detract from it.