How To Choose The Perfect Pittsburgh Location For Your Photo Session

You’ve finally decided to book a photo session and you’re now wondering where on Earth you’re going to do your photo session? You’re in luck! We’re going to chat all things photo locations and how to choose the perfect location for your session. 

The first thing to consider is the vibe you’re thinking for your photos. What type of photos are you drawn to? What type of photos have you seen on Instagram or Pinterest and thought “wow, those are gorgeous!!”? What type of setting are those photos taken in? There are a few styles of photography to consider when choosing a photo location. 

City Vibes 

Busy, fun, intimate, vibes.

Think- industrial, garage rooftops, elegant hotels and building exteriors, busy city crosswalks, etc! 

I love city locations for engagement sessions, elopements, and wedding portraits! They can be so romantic and really give that candid, documentary feel! Pittsburgh is a GORGEOUS city that provides so many opportunities for amazing city backdrops!

Greenery

Earthy, Nature-Based, Adventurous vibes.

Think - trees, open fields, trails, streams, foliage, etc.
You truly cannot go wrong with greenery or nature as your backdrop. I highly recommend a location like this if you have young children or a lot of kiddos attending your session. It gives plenty of space and opportunity to let kids do their thing and not feel confined. That alone helps the session go smoothly. In the fall, foliage is recommended 10/10!! It makes for the most dreamy backdrops.

Since we live in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, we lose greenery for a portion of our year, so this may not be the ideal location in the winter months.

Architecture

Clean, Minimalistic, Simple

Think- clean architecture, stairs, columns, etc.
There are a few hidden gems in Pittsburgh that come to mind. I like to utilize architecture in Pittsburgh in the winter months when greenery is scarce. It provides some incredible detail as a backdrop and really helps add character to your photos. 

A Meaningful Spot To You

Fun, Memories, Interaction

Think- Your favorite ice cream shop, arcade, bowling alley, bar, etc.

The magic that happens when you choose a location that means a lot to you is truly unmatched. These photos will focus a lot on interaction which are some of my favorite photos to capture. It gives the photos that much more meaning when you choose a location close to your heart.

I hope this helps you navigate pinning down the perfect locations for your photo session! I cannot wait to capture those moments.