There are so many perks to being a lifestyle photographer in Pittsburgh. At the top of the list is always the wonderful families I meet. It’s an honor to be trusted by a family to document their family’s special moments over the years. I began photographing these guys with Nixon was only a couple months old for his first Easter portraits and now his a big brother. I couldn’t be happier for them!! Pay special attention to this dad’s shoes. Comment below how many different shoes you notice him wearing!
How did you and your spouse meet?
We met after college through mutual friends, I left Pittsburgh for a short time for my masters but we stayed connected long distance. I had actually come back to Pittsburgh for the St. Patrick’s Day celebration and ran into Neil in Market Square, which is now our dating anniversary!
Describe what it’s like to change from a family of three to a family of four.
It has been a lot of fun! Of course it can be challenging with a 2 year old (we didn’t really leave the house the entire month of February) but Nevin has truly completed our little family.
What do you enjoy about living in the Pittsburgh area?
We love being close to our family and how affordable it is to live here.
What are your family’s favorite things to do in and around Pittsburgh?
As a family, we like going to the zoo, sporting events (Pirates, Steelers, Pitt), walking in the South Side/around our neighborhood, and shopping!
Tell us about your home.
We are very blessed to be able to build a home in Pittsburgh. We spent about 2 or 3 years looking around the Pittsburgh area (North Hills, South Hills) at existing homes and new communities. We settled on Pine Township because of the location in relation to our families as well as the amenities that are very close. It is very different than the South Side but we love it here. We love decorating as well, we used a designer but have mostly selected everything ourselves. The first thing I bought was the flower sofa from Anthropologie, everyone who comes in the house comments on it and loves it!
In your opinion, what are the best shops around Pittsburgh to buy items for your newborn?
I love Janie & Jack, and I’m glad that the Gap purchased them and is keeping them in business! I usually head to Tanger Outlets for the best deals. I also love the Beaufort Bonnet Company, Alexandros kids, and Lou Lou & Company.
Describe a typical day in your life.
The day usually starts around 8:30 when we all wake up, if Neil has the day off we usually venture out someone fun or run errands. If I am home by myself we try to go for a walk or go to the playground if its warm out.
What is your family’s favorite meal to cook at home?
We love tacos, meatballs, chicken salads and cooking in the crockpot.
How did you prepare for your newborn lifestyle session?
Everyone got a bath the night before and we all had a good night sleep!
What is your favorite portrait from your newborn lifestyle session? Explain why it’s your favorite.
All of the ones with the whole family, we look so joyful. Nevin was very fussy during the session and Nixon wouldn’t stay still, so it was nice to see that the pictures of all of us turned out so great!
How did you decide to schedule a newborn lifestyle session with Laura Mares Photography?
I knew I wanted to capture Nevin so small and create birth announcements like I did with Nixon, and Laura is our go-to photographer!
