Outfit Ideas for Dads – Newborn, Maternity, or Family Sessions

I feel like dads have the easiest job when it comes to getting dressed for photos. If you want to keep it simple, a white t-shirt and khakis honestly really will pass as completely acceptable. However, for those who want a little more inspiration, I’m here to help! I will give you the run-down of what makes outfits work for photos, and some fun things to add to help you stand out.

Tip 1: Pick your Color Palette.

Typically I choose the mother’s dress first. If it has a pattern, then I build the color palette off of that. I always try to keep the colors light, bright, airy and subtle. This is really important. Especially for studio sessions, to keep your shirt as light as possible! I recommend pretty much wearing white. Also, it’s important to prioritize avoiding dark, saturated, or bold colors. This obviously can work with some other styles, but for my work, it doesn’t. This includes jeans. I almost never recommend jeans. Khakis or other light colored pants is better.

Once you have a color palette picked out, it’s much easier to select a top and bottom.

Men’s shirts can also incorporate a print. I don’t see it all that often, but it does happen (and I love it!) But, there are definitely ways to do this right! I would recommend discussing it 1-on-1 during your session planning if you plan on mixing prints within the family.

Tip 2: Add texture

Texture comes in with the material(s) of your garments, and little things like buttons, collars, and pockets.
For example, you could wear a white tee, OR you could opt for a knit shirt with a collar and Henley style buttons. the shirt below is from Kohl’s.

Tip 3: Add Layers

Adding layers is definitely an optional step, but if it’s something you want to include, this would be the step. Ways to add layers would be, to add an under-shirt (such as a dress shirt under a sweater), add a jacket or cardigan, or adding a vest.

Tip 4: Add Accessories

Once you’ve chosen your top and bottom, then you can add accessories. This includes things like a hat, or possibly suspenders, a watch, a belt, bow tie or tie, or jewelry if you typically wear that. Keep the leathers in the same family. For example, if you wear brown leather, keep your belt and watch both brown.

Tip 5: Selecting Shoes

Choosing the right shoes for your session is the last piece of the puzzle. Dress shoes are always a great option, especially for a more elevated look. Avoid super casual shoes like worn sneakers, dirty sandals, or bulky athletic shoes. Also work boots don’t photograph the best.

Tip 6: Be well groomed

Making sure your hair is well kept, and your beard is trimmed will make such a difference in your final photos. Take the time to style your hair if necessary and do a quick trim!

Tip 7: Infuse Your Signature Style

Although I have lots of ideas about what you should wear, don’t forget that you should feel confident and comfortable. When you feel good about how you look, it will shine through your photos and also help you relax during your session.

Lean into the kind of pieces or styles that you love to wear, and if you need assistance incorporating it all in to your session, or finding a new garment to purchase, I am happy to help!

I hope this blog post was helpful for you and inspired you to elevate your outfit for your maternity, newborn, or family photos. Dads, you shine too! And looking good and feeling confident is a big piece of the outfit puzzle.

Some stores I recommend for men’s clothing:’

Kohl’s, TJ Maxx in store, H&M, Johnston & Murphy, Banana Republic & Factory

Things to avoid:

Logos, Bright or dark colors (even black and navy), and athletic clothing.

Here are some ideas of what to wear (these are not my photos, just from a google search):

Here are some photos from the dads I have photographed. You’ll see a variety of options, with dress shirts, sweaters, and even plain tees. Notice how they all have a light, bright color palette and how they followed the list of tips above:

If you’d like more help, see my other style boards or contact me!