Have you ever considered cherry blossom portraits at North Park? The lake by the Boathouse is surrounded by a variety of beautiful cherry trees thanks to The Pittsburgh Sakura Project, a nonprofit that has been planting and maintaining the trees since 2009. Because springtime often sneaks up on us here in Pittsburgh, we can’t be sure if dropping temperatures will wither the delicate petals. The blooms are fleeting. The best case scenario is that the blooms would last a few weeks.
So after a season or two of photographing amid the blossoms, I’ve found it’s best to maintain a waitlist and schedule sessions once the tress have blossomed. You can sign up for Limited Edition Cherry Blossom Sessions on my contact page. I open the waitlist in March and close it once the blossoms wither.
Once your name is on the list, I will be reaching out to schedule in the order of sign-ups. After I’ve contacted you by phone and email, the schedule is open first-come, first-served, so please keep a lookout for my call and email to save your spot. Sessions are available from 7:30 a.m to 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday during dry weather until the blossoms fall.
These 30-minute, limited edition sessions are $300 and include your choice of 6 retouched digital files sized to make 8×10 prints or smaller. They’re perfect for families, high school seniors and couples.
Spring Flowers Vs Wildflowers and Sunflowers
Springtime is when families start thinking about being photographed. And having a plan in place in advance is a good idea because while these photos are beautiful, they don’t show the chilly temperatures that are often common for these sessions. The weather is cool (35-65° F), so keep that in mind when choosing your wardrobe. I recommend wearing layers and shoes that are waterproof and easily cleaned as the ground is usually soggy from spring showers. I also recommend planning your wardrobe with neutrals, muted tones, and a subtle pop of pastels.
Need some wardrobe inspiration?
Trench or pea coats for the whole family. Paired with springy scarves, leggings and boots for the ladies. If it’s warm enough, girls can wear dresses with cardigans. And for the men and boys, style with neutral pants that are a shade darker or lighter than the coat. Rain boots are a great option for this time of year. Although, neutral rain boots are best for the overall look of your portrait. This is a tough find, especially for kiddos. Did you know you can spray paint rain boots? It’s a great fix and the spray paint lasts well past your child outgrowing the boots.
Other springtime locations are the outdoor gardens by Phipps Conservatory, Hardwood Acres Mansion, or Mellon Park. Think tulips and daffodils.
If the springtime temperatures are a little too chilly for your family, you might want to consider a late-summer/early fall session in a wildflower or sunflower field. The temperatures are much warmer, some would say hot, and the same timing applies, either first thing in the morning, or close to sunset for soft, glowy light on sunny days. If it’s an overcast day, there is more flexibility in scheduling your photoshoot.
If you’re interested in wildflower or sunflower sessions, please reach out in June or July to schedule.
Captivating Imagery