Every January I love to look back at the sessions I photographed the previous year, and then look forward to where newborn photography seems to be heading. Trends don’t usually change overnight, they evolve quietly, but 2026 is shaping up to be a gorgeous year for simple, natural baby portraits (my favourite!).

And instead of guessing, I wanted this guide to be rooted in real things I’m noticing in the studio and what's happening in the wider design world. Because while trends come and go, one thing remains true — you want photos of your baby that still feel beautiful years from now.

So, here’s what I’m seeing for 2026 newborn photography trends, backed by design forecasts, colour predictions, and a little experience from behind the camera.

Soft, Neutral Colours Are Still Reigning — With a 2026 Twist

Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2026 is “Cloud Dancer”, a soft, airy white that represents calm, balance and fresh beginnings. It’s gentle, pure and honestly, it couldn’t be more perfect for newborn photography.

Interior trend forecasts for 2026 are pointing toward warm neutrals, earthy tones and natural textures, rather than cool greys. Homes are becoming softer, calmer, more tactile which I adore.

And parents tend to want photos that look right on their walls.

I’m expecting to see more:

• Creamy whites and oatmeal tones
• Warm browns, sage greens, muted pastels
• Natural backdrops and minimal styling
• Cosy, wrapped poses with soft layering

Nothing loud. Nothing that will feel dated in a year.
Just calm, simple images where baby is the entire focus.

What I Noticed in the Studio in 2025

This part is purely from me - no reports, no trend articles, just what parents naturally gravitated toward:

- Almost everyone chose neutral setups
- More parents requested wrapped shots
- Mini props over elaborate themed sets
- Lots of “connection” images with mum and dad and older siblings
- People wanted simple and timeless over decorative

That tells me that parents are moving away from bold colours and elaborate styling, and toward natural, soft newborn images that will look good forever.

How to Style Your Shoot to Fit 2026 Trends

If you want that effortlessly timeless 2026 look, here’s what photographs beautifully:

Colours that work well:
Cream, ivory, beige, taupe, warm grey, muted rose, gentle green.

Textures:
Knit wraps, muslin layers, wooden props, subtle florals.

Clothing for parents:
Simple neutrals. Soft fabrics. No heavy patterns or logos. Bare feet and rolled sleeves often look the most relaxed and natural.

You don’t need to buy anything special. I have wraps, blankets and simple props here in the studio. But keeping to a soft palette really does create something magical.

But if you love colour — don’t feel pressure. I always ask what you love and you choose what works for you.

The Big Shift: More Family Connection Images

One trend I love (and really hope stays forever!) is that parents are getting in the frame more. Some parents are asking for really natural shots of them holding their baby the way they do at home and some are asking me to incorporate their hands into poses.

And honestly? Those are the photos that end up meaning the most.

The tiny hand curled around your finger.
The way baby settles instantly against your chest.
That little breath they take before falling asleep.

This isn’t posed perfection — it’s real, human love.
2026 seems to be leaning into that more than ever.

Why These Trends Won’t Date

Sometimes trends can feel gimmicky but this year feels different. 2026 is less about what’s new and more about what lasts.

Soft neutrals + natural posing = photos that will look just as beautiful in ten years as they do today.

This matters more than most people realise at the time. Babies grow fast. Styles change. Having images that remain timeless is a gift to your future self.

What I’m Doing in the Studio for 2026

To align with where things are heading, I’ve been adding:

• New neutral wraps and textures
• A couple of soft, earthy toned backdrops
• More natural newborn posing
• A focus on connection-based family portraits

Think calm, warm, peaceful.
The kind of photos you print big and keep forever.

Expecting a Baby in 2026?

If you're due soon (or you’re pregnant and planning ahead), now is the perfect time to book. I take a limited number of newborn sessions each month so everything stays relaxed — no rushing, no conveyor-belt shoots. Contact me to check my availability.

If you enjoyed this article, you may also like When Is the Best Age for a Newborn Photoshoot? A Leeds Photographer’s Guide and What to Expect at Your Newborn Photography Session

​​​​​​​Newborn Photography Trends for 2026 (My Thoughts and What’s Actually Coming Next)