Blog

A family picture is a big deal, and you want to make sure your family looks its best at the next photo session.

That being said, you need to make sure you have the best landscape to bring out all of the good sides, as well as know what to wear for family photos.

So how do you go about doing that?

Well, you could start by checking out this list. Take a look below and see what’s there for you.

10 Great Places to Take Family Pictures (and a Little Help on What to Wear for Family Photos)

Here are 10 of the best places in Pittsburgh to take some pretty creative photos at your next session. Why not check out a few and see what works for you?

1. At Home

The only thing easier than a shoot in the studio is one in your own home. That being said, it doesn’t have to be a “lazy day” shoot. You know your house better than anyone else (because well, it’s your home). Why not get creative with it? You can take pictures in your bedroom to give off a comforting feel, in the kitchen or you can take them by the fire to showcase family bonding. This is also a very good way to work with your kids, as they can feel more comfortable in their surroundings and will work with the photographer easier.

2. Historical Site or Park

Historical sites and parks are there for us to remember important moments of the past. No matter who you are, there’s bound to be some monument or landmark that means something important to you. Having a photo session at a historical site shows that you and your family care about a cause you feel should be honored and recognized.

The time and complexity of the shoot may vary depending on where the session is held, but it’ll be well worth it when you have beautiful photos to commemorate such a memorable experience.

3. A Field During Golden Hour

Taking shots anywhere during the golden hour results in a beautiful picture, and many people jump for the chance. Golden Hourhappens twice a day: once during the morning period right after sunrise, and once in the evening, right before sunset. Here’s where you can play around a bit with what to wear for your family portrait. Pick out warm colors that match the beauty of the light and give off a more mellow tone.

4. Downtown Pittsburgh

Downtown Pittsburgh is always one of the best places to showcase your urban side. In and around downtown is the perfect mix of vintage old school with new age pop. All of the buildings and other fancy structures give you a chance to play around with the camera as well. You can also take some amazing pictures any time of the day, including Golden Hour, so the possibilities are pretty much endless.

5. A Place With Family Significance

We all have that special place that’s important to us. Maybe it’s where you first met your significant other, your favorite ice cream spot or where your kids had their first memorable outing. Maybe it’s just been a family hotspot for generations. Whatever the case, this is an obvious go-to for a family portrait, and one that will look good as well as hold personal value to you and your family. Since these places can be varied in their appearance, make sure to hash out all the little details with your photographer so they know what they’re working with.

6. In the Woods

Consider yourselves nature people? Why not show it off with a photo session among the trees? A hot new wave has come through with people trying to find a way to be one with nature – and you need to show these newcomers who was first. The woods are a great way to go to give off that laid-back, happy vibe. Keep in mind that you don’t want to completely shroud yourself with trees, as that makes it significantly harder to natural light to come through (Really, this goes for any photo taken outside). Try to stay near the edge of the woods so the photographer can catch all the good angles.

7. Dog Park

Because who doesn’t love dogs? A dog park is a fun and vibrant place to have your photo session, especially when you bring along your furry friend (I mean, what other reason would you be at a dog park?). The backdrop would look pretty neat too, and it’s certainly a new spin on photography that everyone in the family will love (yes, that means Fido too).

8. Kennywood

I bet this one didn’t come across your list of places to have a photo session. The question is, why not? If you care more about capturing the fun rather than the perfect lighting, then a photo shoot at Kennywood or a local fair is a go. Your kids will be in their realist state of pure happiness (and you will, too), so the pictures will look genuine. For a great photo to look back on with your children when they grow up, this is one of the best ways to go.

9. A Portrait Studio

The indoor studio is the classic route for some families. If you’re a stickler for lighting, or if you just want to make sure you’re in an environment free of the weather that could effect your shoot, then using a studio is your best bet. There’s also the bonus of studio props so you and your fam can get creative. What’s not to love?

10. Family Reunion

There are few things better than getting the whole family together for a photo shoot. Staging a photography session at a reunion is great because you get to gather all of your people together to take a shot of a rare family moment. Just make sure to plan well in advance with your photographer, so they won’t be overwhelmed by the amount of time and energy it’ll take to pull the session off.

The Photographer Who Gets All the Angles

Now you know some of the best places to take pictures around Pittsburgh and even a little about what to wear for family photos. Why not get some actual photos of your own?

I’ve been in the photography business for quite a while, so I know a thing or two about finding the perfect photo location. Check out some of the work I’ve done for children and families, newborns, lifestyle sessions, seniors, and more!

If you like what you see, why not book a session? I’d love to work with you and help your family make memories that will last a lifetime!