family portraits

Photographs tell stories, share secrets, and freeze memories. When you update your family pictures, you document your family’s story.

candid portrait of family having fun on Mt. Washington, Pittsburgh
Father and daughter dancing during a photo session in Pittsburgh's Mellon Park
black and white portrait of family having fun on Mt. Washington

A dreamy sunset with the perfect blend of peach, red and yellow is hard to find–but after many years of professional sunset searching, I’ve discovered some of the most beautiful sunset locations in Pittsburgh. 

So, Pittsburgh families, get ready for all the best kept secrets on where to go for perfect sunsets during your family photo session. 

Whether you like urban or natural locations, there’s a plethora of locations for you to choose from. 

a family of three sitting on a yellow bridge at sunset
portrait of family in point state park, Pittsburgh, PA
young boy surfing on the roof of 4 runner

“Do you want to know the secret of life?” I was asked by a kind, older stranger on a dance floor in Ireland. He explained, “It’s simple really, it’s all about recognizing serendipity or the joy of learning to value the little moments, especially the extraordinary ones, that we didn’t plan or search for.” 

Since that moment, I have embraced the philosophy of seeking opportunities, seeing the positives, and focusing on the stories of the people I encounter. Life is filled with serendipity when we learn to recognize it, and it has become the backbone of my photographic style.

Dogs are family members too! Our furry friends are loyal, loving, and are part of our everyday life. Dogs add personality, playfulness, and uniqueness to family portraits.

family sitting in the bed of a vintage pick up truck during a family photo session

“We chose Laura to take our family photos when our daughter turned one, and we cannot recommend her enough. Our daughter is a very slow-to-warm up baby, especially with strangers, but Laura was so gentle and kind and managed to capture the most beautiful photos for us. Working with her to set a date was so easy, and she edited our choices within a week.

She’s professional and kind, but most of all, you can tell how much she loves her work, and she truly does such an amazing job. We are beyond pleased with the way our photos came out!”

mom holding baby girl in a Pittsburgh photo studio
portrait of girl laughing at sunset
portrait of father holding son on shoulder

ready to document your story?

Let’s work together to create unique images for you to treasure of your family!

couple kissing in Pittsburgh's Mellon Park
mother holding son in Pittsburgh's Mellon Park

Laura Mares Photography

Pittsburgh Family Photographer – Let’s document your love and connection in a beautiful location around Pittsburgh.

Laura Mares | Voice Photography Competition
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