…Without further ado, my picks for top five places around the mansion..
I had an awesome opportunity last night! I did a pop-in (mini sessions) with three of my clients from the class of 2026! LET’S GO! What a beautiful, evening for photos at the Hartwood Acres Mansion, just north east from downtown Pittsburgh! Here are my five favorite places to shoot around the mansion (in no particular order! Stay tuned on Instagram. You’ll see more shots from this fun mini session. Discover more awesome senior photo locations around the city!
1. Right out Front!
The Mansion itself is a beautiful backdrop right on the front lawn! It is perfect as soon as the sun goes right below the trees across the field. The mansion itself is illuminated by the setting sun! (Photographer tip: use off camera lighting so that your client as well lit in the shadow of the trees!)
2. Peak of the wall (in the back)
I have been seating my clients on this wall either at its peak or sitting back. Bonus points if they are wearing a long, flowing dress! As the sun is setting, the sky becomes a brilliant orange on this side of the mansion. I love this spot for so many reasons.
3. In the courtyard (back side of the Mansion.)
There is a reason why they hold many weddings every weekend here in the summer of Pittsburgh. This beautiful courtyard is elegantly landscaped. It features carved concrete over 150 years old. It is the perfect classical backdrop for senior portraits in the Pittsburgh area. The mansion itself is so popular all over the region for all kinds of photography! On any given evening, there will be at least 4 to 20 groups. Photographers and their clients will be taking photos around the mansion.
4. Any spot with a good view of the windows.
The Windows on the mansion are mostly intact and they are one of the most beautiful features of it! Any place you can get the windows and the reflection as a backdrop Will make for a stunning portrait. There are a few places. The one in the picture is located on the right side of the mansion. It is in front in a small courtyard.
5. The front of the “Event Venue” space.
This spot is not well known. I love the angles of the triangle. I have, in the past turned by client and had them sit on the stairs here. This vantage point offers the back of the mansion in full view. (I recommend taking the shot earlier during the day so there is more natural light coming over the mansion.) This cool back view of the event space has been one of my favorites for years!
I hope you have enjoyed my five favorite places to shoot around the Hartwood Acres Mansion. If you are looking forward to your senior year, reach out today. You would love to take photos at this location. Learn more about me and my business. Discover so many more awesome locations to shoot senior portraits in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania!
If you’re looking forward to your senior year and want meaningful, artistic images to celebrate this moment — I’d love to help you plan your perfect session.
Booking now for summer and fall Class of 2026 seniors!
Contact me today to learn more and reserve your date!
