As a Pittsburgh editorial photographer, I’m drawn to stories. Not the kind you read in books — but the kind you can see and feel through photographs. Editorial photography isn’t about stiff poses or studio lights. It’s about capturing people as they truly are—immersed in what they love, in the places where they feel most at home.
Whether it’s someone lifting weights in their home gym, flipping burgers on the grill, reading a good book, or working in a quiet home office, these everyday moments reflect something deeper — personality, lifestyle, and identity. These moments are the story. That’s what editorial photography is all about.
What is Editorial Photography?
Editorial photography is rooted in storytelling. Traditionally, these images were created to accompany magazine articles or journalistic pieces. But in recent years, the style has grown in popularity outside of publications. Now, many people are drawn to editorial-style sessions because they want images that feel more real, less staged, and deeply personal.
Unlike traditional portraits or headshots, editorial photography captures people in action — living, working, relaxing, creating. The goal is to give viewers a sense of who someone is, not just what they look like.
As a photographer working with clients in and around Pittsburgh, I’ve found that editorial photography is a powerful way to showcase individuals doing what they love, in spaces that mean something to them. From small business owners and creatives to entrepreneurs and hobbyists, this style of photography allows their personalities to shine through in a way a white backdrop simply can’t provide.
Why Environment Matters
One of the best parts of editorial photography is working within someone’s natural environment — their home, workshop, kitchen, or even garage. These are the places where real life happens. They’re filled with meaningful objects, familiar routines, and quiet details that say a lot about a person.
Take a recent session I did in Pittsburgh, for example. We shot in his home gym where he trains, by the sleek cars parked out front, near the grill he fires up on weekends, and in a quiet corner where he loves to read. Instead of choosing just one location, we captured a fuller story—each space revealing a different side of his life and personality. Together, they paint a cohesive, authentic portrait of who he is.
For editorial photographers, it’s not just about snapping a good photo; it’s about observing and composing moments that are rich with meaning. The clutter on a desk, the light coming through a kitchen window, the way someone holds a coffee mug while deep in thought — these are the kinds of details that make editorial photography feel intimate and layered.
More Than Just a Photo — It’s Your Story
One of the biggest misconceptions about editorial photography is that it’s only for magazine features or fashion spreads. In reality, this style is perfect for anyone who wants to be seen for who they really are — not just a polished version, but a full and honest portrayal.
Unlike branding sessions, editorial photos aren’t about selling a service or product—they’re only about telling a story. If you’re looking to create a collection of meaningful images that go beyond the typical headshot, an editorial session could be the perfect fit. These sessions are designed to reflect your lifestyle, passions, and personality in an authentic way.
As a Pittsburgh editorial photographer, I work with clients to find the balance between candid and curated — giving just enough direction to help them feel confident while letting genuine moments unfold. The result? Natural, compelling images that feel like you.
Capturing the Everyday — In an Extraordinary Way
It’s easy to overlook the beauty of our daily lives. But through the lens of editorial photography, those small, familiar routines become something worth celebrating. Your morning workout, your favorite spot to read, your weekend grilling ritual. They’re not just chores or hobbies – they’re part of your story.
This kind of photography helps preserve those moments and share them in a meaningful way. When done right, it feels like a visual diary: honest, engaging, and rich with personality.
Ideally, editorial photographs come together to tell a full story about who you are, without needing a single word.
Let's tell your story!
Interested in an editorial session? Let’s create images that tell your story with honesty, style, and soul—images that could easily belong in a magazine.
With a background in lifestyle and branding photography, I bring years of experience capturing people with intention. Editorial work takes that further, offering space to express creative ideas, celebrate milestones, or reveal a side of yourself rarely seen.
Based in Pittsburgh and serving the surrounding areas. Reach out to book your editorial session today.
