Pittsburgh is filled with scenic locations perfect for capturing family memories. From lush parks to urban landscapes, the city offers a wide variety of settings for unforgettable family portraits. Whether you’re looking for green spaces, picturesque views, or vibrant city backdrops, here are some of the best spots around Pittsburgh to consider for your next photo session.
1. Mellon Park
Nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh’s East End, Mellon Park is a beautiful, historic park that blends natural beauty with architectural elegance. The park’s curated gardens, fountain, and stone structures create a charming and romantic atmosphere perfect for family portraits. The picturesque walled garden offers unique backdrops that add depth and character to any photo. The tree-lined walkways and seasonal blooms bring a splash of color to your portraits, making it a versatile spot for photos year-round.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to catch the golden hour light. Mellon Park’s beauty shines in every season, but spring, summer, and fall truly showcase its vibrant flowers, greenery, and foliage.
2. Hartwood Acres
If you’re looking for a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm, Hartwood Acres is the place to go. Located in the North Hills, this 629-acre park boasts stunning woodlands, open meadows, a historic mansion and barn, and a beautifully fenced-in flower garden. The vibrant blooms and fenced in garden offer a colorful and romantic backdrop for family portraits. The wooded trails and wide-open spaces are ideal for capturing serene, timeless photos, making Hartwood Acres an ideal spot for families looking to blend nature, history, and beauty in their portraits.
Best Time to Visit: Fall, for the stunning autumn foliage, but beautiful in any season. The summer months also provide beautiful flowers and greenery, making it another fantastic year-round option.
3. The North Shore
For families who appreciate a blend of iconic architecture and urban art, Pittsburgh’s North Shore offers a perfect backdrop. The stunning Sister Bridges—the Roberto Clemente, Andy Warhol, and Rachel Carson bridges—serve as striking architectural features, creating a bold and dynamic setting for family portraits. These historic bridges, with their intricate steel designs and scenic river views, add a touch of industrial charm to your photos. Nearby, colorful murals and street art add a playful, modern flair, making this area ideal for families looking to capture the energy and creativity of the city. The combination of the bridges, riverfront, and murals provides a unique urban vibe, while the nearby parks and walking paths offer peaceful spots for more intimate family moments.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for quieter shots or during sunset to capture the golden light reflecting off the river. The city skyline at dusk adds a magical, urban vibe to your photos.
4. The Strip District
The Strip District is a dynamic, bustling neighborhood that brings an urban edge to your family portraits. Known for its colorful street art, quirky architecture, and lively vibe, this area is perfect for families who want their portraits to have a unique, lively feel. The contrast of old warehouses and colorful murals makes for an exciting backdrop, and the area’s diversity offers endless opportunities for creative, modern shots. Whether you’re near the fresh food markets or by the colorful street art, every corner is a new opportunity for a bold and dynamic photo.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or weekday afternoons, when the area is less crowded, so you can capture the vibrant street scenes without too many distractions.
5. Color Park & The Highline
For a blend of modern design and natural beauty, Color Park and the Highline on the South Side provide a truly unique space for family portraits. The bright, bold colors of Color Park’s abstract art and the stunning elevated views from the Highline make this location an exciting and dynamic choice. The Highline offers sweeping views of the city and the river, while Color Park brings a sense of playfulness and energy to your photos. This spot is perfect for families who want something a little more contemporary and artistic. It’s an ideal backdrop for families looking to showcase their style in a setting that stands out.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for soft lighting and to avoid the crowd. The bright colors pop beautifully in sunset light, and the views of the city are mesmerizing as the day transitions into evening.
6. The Mexican War Streets & Allegheny Commons
For families seeking a mix of historic charm and tranquil green spaces, the Mexican War Streets and Allegheny Commons provide the perfect blend of both. The Mexican War Streets offer picturesque Victorian-era homes, cobblestone streets, and a vibrant, artsy neighborhood, perfect for adding a touch of vintage elegance to your portraits. Just a short walk away, Allegheny Commons provides lush green spaces, ponds, and bridges offering a peaceful natural setting for your photos. Whether you prefer the architectural beauty of the streets or the serene, nature-filled park, this combination of locations gives you diverse backdrops for a variety of family portrait styles.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for softer lighting, with the trees in full bloom, or a quiet, magical feel during sunset.
7. South Park
South Park offers vast green fields, wooded trails, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal location for families seeking a relaxed, nature-filled environment for their portraits. The classic charm of Pennsylvania, with its open fields and wooded forests, provides stunning rustic backdrops that enhance the beauty of any photo session.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring and summer when the trees are full, but any season offers a beautiful backdrop. The snowy winter months add a touch of wonder, making it ideal for serene, wintery portraits.
Final Tips
- Timing: Consider scheduling at these locations early in the morning or late afternoon for golden hour for the best natural lighting. The soft light during these times will create a more flattering effect and add a touch of magic to your photos.
- Season: Each location has a unique charm during different seasons. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and blooms, while fall offers gorgeous foliage, and winter provides a serene, snowy landscape. Choose a time of year that reflects your family’s personality and style.
- Outfit Coordination: Depending on the location, choose outfits that complement the environment. For example, in nature-focused locations like Hartwood Acres, softer tones and earth hues work well, while urban spots like the Strip District might be enhanced with bolder colors or casual streetwear. Coordinating your outfits with the setting helps create a cohesive look for your photos.
Let's tell your family's story!
Pittsburgh offers an abundance of diverse locations for family portraits, each with its unique charm and beauty. Whether you prefer a serene natural backdrop, an urban setting, or a blend of both, Pittsburgh’s picturesque locations provide the perfect setting for your family.
Let’s work together to create beautiful images that you can treasure for a lifetime!
