Picture Perfect: 8 Tips for Great Baby and Child Photos

Bright colors and large patterns draw attention away from the face; instead choose simple, solid-colored clothing. All children, from infancy, look classic in white, dark blue, or green, says Steve Theis, a Seaford, Delaware, photographer. Known as receding colors, these hues will make your child's face the focus of the picture.

If you're going to a studio, take several outfits in case a child has messes from leaky sippy cups, blow-out diapers, or spit up. If you're planning a family photo, pack an extra set of clothes for Mom and Dad too, in case the accident includes your blouse or suit jacket.