FAMILY PORTRAITS

Photographs tell stories so you remember these days. When you update your family pictures, you document your family’s continuing 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

“Displaying photos prominently in the home sends the message that our family and those in it are important to one another, and we honor the memories we have experienced.”

– Cathy Lander-Goldberg

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. 

Pittsburgh families, get ready for all the best kept secrets for perfect sunsets during your family photo session. 

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

a family of three sitting on a yellow bridge at sunset
family posing for a portrait in a rural field with a sun flare near Pittsburgh, PA
family laughing during a portrait session in Pittsburgh's Mellon Park

When a kind, older stranger on a dance floor in Ireland, asked, “Do you want to know the secret of life?” I wasn’t sure how to respond. He continued, “It’s simple really, it’s all about recognizing serendipity; the joy of learning to value the little moments that unexpectedly become the most memorable.” 

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

FAMILY PORTRAIT PACKAGES

Let’s create stunning images at beautiful locations featuring you
and your loved ones looking your best! We can schedule your session around “golden hour” to capture the most beautiful light of the day. 

Please get in touch for details and add-on customizations.

$699

Document your journey

$999

ready to document your story?

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

young boy surfing on the roof of Toyota 4 runner
mother holding son in Pittsburgh's Mellon Park

Let's tell your story!

Let’s work together to create beautiful images that you can treasure for a lifetime!

Laura Mares Photography

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

Laura Mares | 2023 Voice Photography Competition Honorable Mention
Laura Mares Photography logo