Some senior portrait sessions are especially meaningful when you’ve known the family for years. Getting to photograph this senior was one of those occasions.
A lifelong Mount Lebanon resident, she has a deep appreciation for her hometown, a love of art, and a thoughtful, studious nature. For her senior portraits, she envisioned the beauty of the art museum in contrast with the simplicity of her own style. It was a fitting choice for someone whose interests and curiosity extend well beyond the classroom.
We spent part of her session surrounded by the museum’s beautiful architecture and art, creating portraits that felt both classic and distinctly her. She especially loved how the setting reflected her interests and made her senior photos feel personal.
As she looks ahead to college, new friendships, and the possibility of traveling beyond the United States, these portraits capture a meaningful season before everything begins to change.
Growing up in Pittsburgh
Is there a Pittsburgh spot that feels meaningful to you?
Having lived in Mount Lebanon my whole life, I have an extreme love for that specific community. I love the tight-nit feeling of Mount Lebanon. I love the feeling of uptown and the library and the walkability of it all.
What’s your favorite thing about growing up in the Pittsburgh area?
I love how Pittsburgh has it all. It is a decent sized city, but not too big. It has an international airport, professional sports teams, and beautiful museums, but it is not overwhelming in size.
How do you think your Pittsburgh roots have shaped who you are?
I think that since my family has lived in Pittsburgh for so long, and they have such a love for the city and its culture, that has reflected onto me.
Senior year
What’s one thing you’ll always remember about your senior year?
I hope to always remember the teachers I had and the classes I enjoyed. I also hope to never forget the friends I bonded with this year.
Which activity has had the biggest impact on you?
My junior year in general. The classes I took held a harmonious relationship and helped me connect parts of different subjects together. It made me excited to continue my studies in college.
How would the people who know you best describe who you are right now?
studious, helpful, encouraging, a good friend
What accomplishment from high school are you most proud of?
Balancing school work, music, and sports while enjoying each of them and making friends.
What’s something you’ve learned about yourself during your senior year?
It is the beginning of my year, so I do not know yet.
Senior portrait session
How would you describe your personal style in three words?
classic, elegant, sometimes sporty
What kind of vibe were you hoping your senior photos would capture?
The beauty of the museum in contrast to the simplicity of me.
What drew you to Laura Mares Photography for your senior portraits?
We know her family and we enjoyed her work.
Did you have a favorite moment of the session?
The museum
What parts of your personality are captured in your senior photos?
I think my love for art is captured in the photos.
Which portrait is your favorite?
The museum ones in general because I like how the museum is a more unique location and reflects my specific interests more.
What comes next
What are you most excited about as you take your next steps after graduation?
I am very excited to attend college and meet new people. Even though I am not sure where I am going yet, I am still very excited.
What goals or dreams are you looking forward to exploring in the future?
I am excited to see what is beyond Pittsburgh in my college years. Not only seeing my college town, but also traveling outside of the United States.
A New Chapter Ahead
There’s something special about photographing a senior you’ve watched grow up. It’s a chance to pause and appreciate who they are right now, knowing how much is waiting for them just around the corner.
For this senior, that next chapter means college, new friendships, new places to explore, and the opportunity to see more of the world. I hope these photographs remind her of this season, her love of art, and the Pittsburgh community that has been part of her story for so long.
Congratulations on your senior year! I can’t wait to see where life takes you next.
Planning your Pittsburgh senior pictures?
Your senior portraits should reflect who you are and what makes this season of life yours. Maybe that means the art and architecture of the Carnegie Museum of Art, the character of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods, or a favorite outdoor spot that feels like home.
Together, we’ll choose a location and create portraits that feel natural, personal, and distinctly you.
