Early August brings the perfect nights for senior photos in the heart of the city! Kendra will soon graduate from Quaker Valley High School, Class of 2026. She wanted a session that felt vibrant and bold. She also desired it to be uniquely Pittsburgh. Together, we planned her session to capture all the best of “dAwnTown”!
We started her shoot near the University of Pittsburgh campus. We photographed at the elegant Mellon Library columns and, of course, the towering Cathedral of Learning. Both landmarks bring a timeless, academic feel that balances the modern edge of downtown.
After wrapping up at Pitt, we headed to my favorite city square park near the William Penn Omni Hotel. This little park gives you the square Park greenery mixed with the towering iconic buildings, perfect for a downtown session. From there, we headed straight to the unmistakable glass towers of PPG Place. With its sharp angles and iconic architecture, it’s one of my favorite Pittsburgh city senior photo locations.
Sometimes we “improvise”!
While driving through the city, we spotted an amazing green mural. We had to pop out and get photos by it! Our sessions are well planned but they leave plenty of wiggle room for exciting little adventures all along the way!!
As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Smithfield Street Bridge. This blue iconic bridge is such a fun contrast against the warm evening sky. Right next to the bridge is an incredible view of the skyline. There are also some fun hidden spots on this southside Pittsburgh location. The Smithfield St., Bridge area continues to be one of my favorite places for sunset photos in Pittsburgh!
I always recommend professionally done hair and makeup!
Kendra looked amazing and polished from the start of her photo shoot. She continued to look great until the end. This was thanks to having her hair and make-up professionally done earlier that day. If you can afford these services definitely get them done! They take so much stress out of your senior photo session day. And they guarantee you will not only look but feel flawless throughout your shoot. She came prepared, confident, and full of joy — and it truly shows in her photos.
Her epic senior session was all about celebrating her personality. It captured all the city vibes. I couldn’t imagine better locations to help her finished photos do just that!
If you’re dreaming of senior photos downtown in Pittsburgh, we will plan your session together. Let’s capture the places that make this city feel special to you. Whether it’s the bridges, skyline, or hidden alleys — we’ll make your senior photos unforgettable.
PS: City photo shoots are equally as amazing and beautiful in the fall and even the winter! I still have a few fall dates available inquire while you still can!
