Magical Light on Herrs Island
Pittsburgh is full of amazing spots for portraits and I love getting to explore new locations. I found Herrs Island some time ago but hadn’t had the opportunity to work there until this senior reached out, wanting variety. Herrs Island gives you plenty of variety! From the stone staircase at the northern tip of the island to the steel train trestle that crosses over just below the park, and the pedestrian bridge at the southern tip, you can find plenty of variety as well as beautiful views of the river and downtown Pittsburgh. And the light is simply magical at sunset. You can learn more about Herrs Island here.
Herrs Island North Park
I started this senior session on the northern, shadier side of the island. The north park area has a gravel path that leads through a small wooded area to a stone staircase down to a stone-walled lookout closer to the river. It feels out of a fairytale.
As you move south from this northern tip, there’s an open lawn, tennis courts, and some areas with tall grasses and wildflowers. This session was at the beginning of September so trees were just starting to have the touch of yellow as leaves started to turn.
Steel and Brick
After a quick outfit change, I couldn’t resist the light and setting right by where we were parked. One of the most important parts of being a photographer is being able to recognize the potential of a space and position yourself and your subject to create amazing images. On one side of the parking lot, we found a trail along the road with steel and stone train trestles towering over a hillside overgrown with trees and vines and tall grasses. On the other side of the parking lot, we found a brick wall with a doorway and a gravel trail with wildflowers along the edge. And the light was amazing!
The Bridge
We had time for one more outfit change and then a quick drive to get to the southern tip of the island. There’s an extension of the Three Rivers Heritage Trail that leads over a pedestrian bridge and up the island. It’s a beautiful spot to watch the sunset over Pittsburgh.
A Little Bit of Fun
I love when my seniors bring accessories and I love it when they’re willing to give mine a try. Just before this session, I picked up a cute little pair of rose-tinted sunglasses while on vacation in New Jersey. I was excited to share them and catch a few more images.
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There should also be a little bit of playful fun during senior portraits. And oh my, look at those eyes!!
Are you ready to schedule your Herrs Island senior portrait session? Send me a message and we can start planning here or find another location that is perfect for you!
