As a newborn and family photographer, January is always my favourite month to dream a bit about the year ahead – what styles will be trending, which colours will be in, and which setups will make those tiny, squishy babies look even more adorable than they already are (if that’s possible!).

So, I thought I’d share my predictions for the top newborn photography themes and setups for 2026. Whether you’re a fellow photographer, a parent planning a session, or just a lover of all things baby, there’s something here for everyone.

TREND 1: Bold, Colourful Statements

2026 is looking like the year of colour, with bold colours making a comeback, which is perfect for families who love playful energy and want something a bit different from the classic muted tones.

Here are some examples of how to incorporate your favourite colours into your portraits:

1. Mix different shades of a single colour from pastels to rich jewel tones

2. Include a pop of your favourite colour with neutrals - e.g. choose a bright coloured backdrop with a neutral wrap or outfit for baby or vice versa

3. Choose a bold palette of complementary colours, for example orange and turquoise:

Ready to embrace the joy of colour?
Book a Design Consultation today to browse our gorgeouse prop and use our custom-developed app to find the perfect colour palette for your portraits!

TREND 2: Nature-Inspired Minimalism

A classic that never goes out of style, fall back in love with the simplicity of nature.

Think neutral tones like browns and creams, organic textures, and props that feel “naturally baby-sized.” Linen wraps, hand-knit bonnets, and wooden bowls or baskets are great for soft, warm, and timeless setups that don’t distract from the star of the show: your baby.

Muted earth tones, soft natural light, and textures like wool, cotton, and wicker - cosy, elegant, honestly, you can’t go wrong with it.

TREND 3: Cosy “Nest” Setups

Another trend I’m predicting for 2026 is the rise of “nest” or cocoon-style setups.

Think soft, rounded layers of blankets, fur, and wraps that gently cradle the baby, almost like they’re sleeping in a little cloud. These setups feel incredibly comforting and give newborns a natural, relaxed pose without any complicated positioning.

Parents love these because they highlight how tiny and delicate their newborns are, while photographers get a chance to play with textures, layers, and soft lighting. The nest concept is beautifully versatile, and timeless.

TREND 4: Themed Mini-Sets with a Personal Twist

'Mini-sets' are evolving.

Families are opting for themed setups that reflect something meaningful. Maybe it’s a favourite book, a heritage-inspired design, or even a hobby of the parents (a tiny guitar for the musician family, for example). Incorporating personal items and heirlooms creates portraits are unique to your family story. 

I predict 2026 will see more personalised mini-sets than ever, which means photographers will need to get creative, which is exciting because it turns every shoot into a mini adventure!

TREND 5: Sustainable and Ethical Props

This isn’t just a trend. It’s becoming an expectation.

More families are asking about eco-friendly props, ethically sourced wraps, and sustainable photography practices. Using natural-fibre blankets, handmade baskets, locally sourced or recycled props go a long way toward creating a beautiful, responsible session.

Parents appreciate when you care about the planet, and let’s be honest: those little details elevate the session and give the photos a thoughtful, high-quality feel.

In Summary 

For 2026, I see bold colours and earth tones, cosy nest setups, personalised portraits, and a conscious approach to sustainability. Whether you’re booking a newborn session for the first time or you’re a fellow photographer thinking about your offerings, these trends are all about keeping the focus on what matters most: the tiny humans who make life so wonderfully messy and magical.

One last tip? Trends are fun, but don’t stress. The best newborn photos are always the ones that feel real, warm and full of love.

Ready to Plan Your Newborn Portraits?

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