When it comes to newborn photography, every parent dreams of capturing those fleeting, precious moments. While the core goal is always the same – to create timeless memories of your tiny new arrival – there are often subtle yet distinct differences that emerge between photoshoots for baby girls and baby boys. And no, we're not just talking about the location of the photoshoot.


Let's dive into some of the top distinctions you might notice when styling and executing newborn photoshoots for your little prince or princess.


1. Color Palettes and Hues


This is perhaps the most obvious difference. While there are no strict rules and modern photography embraces a wider range of colors, traditional and popular choices often diverge:


  • For Girls: Think soft pastels like blush pink, lavender, mint green, cream, and ivory. You'll also see more use of delicate jewel tones like rose gold and light teal. The overall vibe tends to be light, airy, and ethereal.
  • For Boys: Deeper, richer tones are frequently chosen, such as navy blue, forest green, charcoal grey, earthy browns, and even mustard yellow. These colors often create a more grounded, strong, and cozy feel.


Need help deciding the perfect colors? Our guide on color palettes for newborn photography explores this topic in more detail, with visual inspiration for every style.


Many professional photographers are now incorporating gender-neutral palettes with great success, using whites, grays, creams, and natural wood tones for both.


2. Props and Accessories


Props are an integral part of newborn photography, adding character and context to the images. The types of props often vary significantly:


  • For Girls: Expect to see delicate headbands with bows or tiny floral accents, dainty bonnets, lace wraps, tiny tutus, and props like miniature flower baskets, pearl strands, or soft, fluffy blankets. The emphasis is often on softness and elegance.
  • For Boys: Props might include miniature hats (newsboy caps, beanies), tiny suspenders or bow ties, textured blankets (knit, tweed), wooden elements like tiny crates or wagons, and perhaps props representing hobbies or themes like sports balls (miniature versions, of course!) or adventure. The focus is often on texture, natural elements, and a sense of rugged charm or classic innocence.


3. Styling and Posing


While safe and comfortable posing is paramount for all newborns, there can be subtle differences in how a photographer might style a boy versus a girl:


  • For Girls: Poses might emphasize delicate lines, curled-up positions that highlight their smallness, or poses that showcase their sweet features like tiny fingers and toes. Wraps are often used to create a "cocooned" look, emphasizing fragility.
  • For Boys: Poses might lean towards more "strong" or "masculine" poses, like those with hands tucked under the chin, or more relaxed, sprawled-out positions. Textural elements in wraps and blankets are often highlighted to add a sense of ruggedness. Some photographers might also incorporate poses that suggest strength or a sense of peace.


4. Backdrops and Textures


The choice of backdrops and textures also plays a role in setting the mood:


  • For Girls: Smooth, soft, flowing fabrics like chiffon, lace, and cashmere are often used, creating a dreamy and delicate atmosphere. Floral patterns or subtle textures might be incorporated.
  • For Boys: More textured fabrics like knit, tweed, faux fur, or even burlap can be chosen to add depth and a more "earthy" feel. Solid colors or subtle patterns are common.


5. Overall "Feel" and Narrative


Ultimately, the goal of any newborn photoshoot is to tell a story. While the fundamental story is always about new life, the narrative can subtly shift based on gender:


  • For Girls: The images often evoke a sense of sweetness, purity, delicate beauty, and grace. The narrative might be one of a blooming flower or a precious jewel.
  • For Boys: The photos might convey a sense of peaceful strength, quiet contemplation, or the beginning of a grand adventure. The narrative could be about a little explorer or a tiny hero.


Looking to coordinate your wardrobe to enhance the story? Be sure to check out our blog on perfect baby-parent outfits for newborn photoshoots for styling tips that work beautifully on camera.


The Most Important Takeaway


Despite these common differences, the most crucial aspect of any newborn photoshoot is to reflect the unique personality and essence of your baby. A skilled newborn photographer will always prioritize safety, comfort, and capturing genuine, authentic moments, regardless of gender.

So, whether you're welcoming a little girl or a little boy, focus on finding a photographer whose style resonates with you and who can create beautiful, timeless art that you'll cherish for a lifetime. After all, those first few weeks are gone in a blink!


Book Your Newborn Session Today


Ready to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments with your little one? At Awesome Possum Photography, we specialise in styled newborn photoshoots tailored for both baby girls and boys. Let us help you preserve the magic of those early days with artistic, heartfelt images. Contact us today at Megha - 0410 712 801, Ankit - 0430 777 184 to schedule your session – we can't wait to create memories you'll treasure forever.