A local engagement or wedding photo session just isn’t complete without at least one shot taken in one of these iconic Pittsburgh photo ops locations. This city has so many perfect spots for unforgettable photos and incorporating some easily recognizable Pittsburgh features or buildings is a great way to show your hometown pride. Here are a few of my favorites!
City Skyline
The Pittsburgh skyline is one of the many things that make this city so pretty. Besides Mount Washington, there are lots of other places to capture the likes of the PPG, Highmark, and US Steel buildings in the background. Try the path that runs along the North Shore, the West End overlook, Station Square, or even inside PNC Park for some cityscape views that are totally killer.
Heinz Chapel
Those. Red. Doors. I bet you’re picturing them in your head right now; that’s how well-known they are. This brightly colored background will add a great pop to your photos. Plus, taking your picture in front of them in a whole lot easier than actually getting married in the chapel.
Strip District
Hands down, this is my favorite section of the city. It always seems alive and buzzing with excitement. Plus, I love eating and there is something yummy to devour on every corner. With sites such as the gritty loading docks of the old produce terminal or the railroad tracks, the vintage ice cream parlor that is Klavon’s, or the busyness of the Penn Avenue markets, there is sure to be one that fits the vibe of your photos.
A Bridge
Any bridge. Take a photo on any bridge and it screams Pittsburgh. The Roberto Clemente bridge is closed to traffic during every home Pirates game. Time your photos just right and you can have the whole bridge to yourself (well, and tons of Buccos fans). The Smithfield Street and Hot Metal Bridges, among many others, have pedestrian paths where you can take some photos without having to worry about dodging oncoming traffic.
Mexican War Streets
The streets of this North Side neighborhood are lined with old-fashioned brownstones, colorful murals, and lots of great little nooks and crannies that can really make your photos come alive. Be adventurous and let your photographer pose you in front of the many different textures that can be found in this section of the city.
Cathedral of Learning
The architecture of this incredible tower is beautiful and the structure as a whole makes for a pretty unique feature in your photos. The fountain and double staircase along the Bigelow Boulevard entrance makes for the perfect spot for wedding party photos.
Mellon Institute
Most people don’t know this but the Oakland building with the big columns actually belongs to Carnegie Mellon University and houses some of their natural science departments. Another little known fact – both the interior and exterior was used for numerous scenes in The Dark Knight Rises. My day job afforded me the opportunity to be on set during filming. I was this close to Christian Bale. So cool. But I digress! The huge columns provide a wonderfully interesting feature in the background of photos, and the big staircase is perfect for group shots.
Kennywood or Idlewild
Channel your inner child and take some super fun shots while riding a coaster, eating cotton candy, and playing games. These classic Pittsburgh amusement parks are the perfect setting for relaxed engagement photos where you two can be comfortable and show your fun side.
The Pennsylvanian Rotunda
This grand, brick rotunda is simply breathtaking. The Pennsylvanian is an old train station turned event space and luxury apartment building. The rotunda contains a ton of history and architectural features that throw nods to the important role it played in the past. Head on over there at night, when it’s all lit up, for some real stunner shots.
Where will you be taking your engagement or wedding photos? Will you be incorporating any of these (or others) into the background? What is your favorite location for an iconic Pittsburgh photo? Comment below!
