Jovanna & Troy | An Oakland Engagement
When we met to plan out Jovanna & Troy's engagement session, they had an idea in mind. They wanted snow, and they especially wanted a shot in front of Soldiers & Sailors with snow falling around them. The day before their shoot, Pittsburgh had perfect snow flurries falling down. The day of their shoot - nothing. Even the snow that was on the ground started melting! Pittsburgh weather is notoriously fickle.
Even though we couldn't capture that particular shot, they still braved the cold (really cold) wind around Phipps for their engagement session. We were able to warm up during their more formal shots at the Cathedral of Learning. We even lucked out and got to experience a concert in the Common Room!
They absolutely rocked their entire session. Usually I give some posing tips, but these two seemed like pros! Can you tell?
Congrats!
The Wedding Advice I’d Give You After Photographing Weddings for 13+ Years
After photographing weddings for more than a decade, I have seen a LOT.
Perfectly planned timelines. Timelines that immediately went off the rails. 90-degree ceremonies. Snow. Missing boutonnieres. Champagne explosions. Veils with minds of their own. Flower kids who absolutely refused to participate.
And some really, really incredible wedding days.
So if you're planning a wedding in Pittsburgh, here's the advice I wish I could give every couple before their wedding day:
First Look or No First Look?
First looks are one of those wedding decisions the internet has somehow turned into a VERY BIG DEAL.
So, should you do one?
My deeply unsatisfying photographer answer is:
It depends.
I'm not going to tell every couple they need a first look because it's "better for photos."
Your wedding isn't a photoshoot, remember?
But after photographing weddings for years, there are definitely situations where I think a first look makes the day significantly easier.
Your Senior Pictures Should Actually Look Like You
There is one thing I DON'T want to hear after a senior session:
"These don't even look like me."
Your senior pictures aren't supposed to turn you into a model or some perfectly polished Instagram version of yourself.
They're supposed to capture you at this very weird, exciting, huge point in your life.
So when we're planning your Pittsburgh senior pictures, that's where I want to start.
Looking to plan your Pittsburgh engagement photos, but not sure where to start? Here’s a guide to help you narrow down the can’t-miss spots that should be on your list - categorized by style!



How to Actually Get Candid Wedding Photos (Without Pretending Your Photographer Isn’t There)
Tips for real weddings.