Okay I'm spilling my secrets.
When it comes to senior photos, the right location can totally elevate the vibe of your session. Whether you want something natural and laid back, urban and edgy, or classy and clean, our Pittsburgh region has it all. Here's a roundup of my top 5 favorite spots in the area.
Point State Park
You really can’t go wrong with Point State Park. It's a Pittsburgh classic — clean lines, beautiful views of the rivers, and that iconic fountain. It’s especially good at golden hour when the sunlight hits the water just right. Bonus: we can grab some urban shots with bridges and skyline in the background without walking far.
Pros: Modern, clean, with both iconic city scenery and green space. Bathrooms.
Cons: Can get crowded, parking can be expensive, lots of walking but it is flat ground. (Note- if you're reading this in 2024, the fountain is off for maintenance!)
New Kensington
If you're into texture, color, and a little bit of edge, New Ken delivers. This area has amazing architectural character and that gritty beauty that makes photos pop. Think brick walls, old signage, graffiti, perfect if you want something a little different.
Recommendation: Stick around for dinner! Voodoo brewery and Botl are my faves. If you're there in the morning, Steel Cup Coffee for sure.
Hartwood Acres Mansion
This place feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. If you're into stone walls, dark moody corners, manicured gardens, and wide-open fields, this spot is for you. The vibe possibilities are endless here.
Best for: Soft, romantic, fine art portraits. Flowers and greenery in the spring/summer; and darker, vintage, moody vibes in the winter and late fall.
Pro tip: Call before you plan for a weekend day to make sure there's not a wedding or event booked. And LEAVE NO TRACE. (this means no trash, glitter, confetti, or balloons.)
Northmoreland Park
Ok so it's a little north/east - ish, up here in Apollo, PA, but it's MY favorite outdoor spot for that nature vibe.
We have a lake, tall grass, wildflowers, yellow goldenrod in the late summer, beautiful colors for fall, paved pathways, trees, etc. There is a mile long loop that circles the lake, so I advise just taking that walk and stopping to photograph along the way.
Best for: earthy, peaceful, nature shots, and fall colors.
Pro tip: always check yourself for ticks after being in tall grass!
My Studio!
Last but not least, my humble favorite, my own studio here in Tarentum. Studio photography is classy, timeless, elegant- with no distractions. Whether your mood is bold and editorial, or soft and classic, the studio gives us full control.
Pros: air conditioned, controlled lighting, vanity for makeup touch-ups, snack bar, music.
Cons: 3 flights of stairs!
Learn more about the studio here