Traveling has a beautiful way of teaching you things you can't learn anywhere else. Long before I launched Laura Mares Photography, my world was shaped by wanderlust. From childhood road trips to American National Parks to studying photography at the…
In a world dominated by curated social media feeds and the pressure to present a polished exterior, it is easy to think our lives are only worth documenting when everything is in its place. We wait for the perfect moment…
power of place There is a specific kind of magic that happens when a person steps into a space they truly love. Their shoulders drop, their smile loses its performative edge, and they simply exist. As a photographer, I’ve found…
Long before I was documenting the beautiful, chaotic, and heart-filling lives of families around Pittsburgh, I spent my days in a very different setting: the classroom.Before transitioning into my career as a Pittsburgh lifestyle photographer, I was an ESL (English…
After a decade as a lifestyle photographer here in Pittsburgh, I’ve realized that the most meaningful photographs aren’t usually the ones I’ve meticulously planned. They’re the ones I’ve allowed to happen. They live in that sweet spot where a solid…
There’s something powerful about doing the same work for over two decades—especially when that work is documenting people's lives. Time becomes more than something you feel passing. You see it. You see children grow, seasons change, and families evolve. You…
People often assume being a photographer is all about snapping pretty pictures. And while beautiful images are absolutely the goal, what I truly aim to do is tell stories — the quiet, in-between moments that often go unnoticed until they're…
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills my kitchen, and a familiar scent signals the start of my day as a photographer. My daily routine blends the creative with the practical, the thrill of a photo shoot balanced with the…
Expecting a little bundle of joy? Choosing the best photographer for your newborn is an important decision. Here are some key factors to consider: Style and portfolio Start by looking at the photographer's portfolio and see if their style aligns…
Maybe you just found out you’re expecting and can’t wait to schedule a newborn session that captures your family’s new addition, or maybe you gave birth a week ago and are frantically trying to book a session before your baby's…