Pittsburgh Engagement Photographer
Light, bright, and candid engagement photography for couples who want timeless images that feel natural, effortless, and true to them.
Pittsburgh Engagement Session Planning Guide
WELCOME
PLANNING YOUR PITTSBURGH ENGAGEMENT SESSION
I’m Carly Ferraco, a Pittsburgh engagement photographer specializing in light, bright, and candid engagement sessions for couples throughout Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania.
Welcome — and congratulations on your engagement! I’m so excited you’re here and honored you’re considering me as your Pittsburgh engagement photographer. Engagement sessions are one of my favorite parts of the wedding experience because they allow us to slow down, connect, and capture this season exactly as it feels.
An engagement session is more than just photos for save-the-dates or your wedding website. It’s a chance for you to get comfortable in front of the camera, learn how I guide and pose you in a natural way, and see how effortless and fun the process can be. I’ll walk you through everything — from flattering movement to gentle direction — so your images feel relaxed, authentic, and full of genuine connection.
Most couples tell me they arrive feeling a little nervous — and leave feeling relaxed, confident, and excited. That comfort carries directly into your wedding day, making your portraits feel natural, candid, and truly you.
I recommend scheduling your engagement session a few months before your wedding date so we have flexibility with timing, season, and location around Pittsburgh. Whether you’re drawn to city views, parks, architecture, or something meaningful to your story, I’ll help you choose a location that feels authentic and timeless.
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry — that’s exactly what I’m here for.
Keep reading for guidance on locations around Pittsburgh, what to wear, timing tips, and how to prepare for a relaxed, candid engagement session.
Timing and lighting
The best time for engagement photos in Pittsburgh
My favorite time to photograph engagement sessions is a few hours before sunset, when golden hour creates soft, romantic light.
Golden hour offers flattering, directional light that works beautifully in city settings, parks, and along the water — creating images that feel natural, effortless, and timeless.
I’ll guide you on the ideal start time for your engagement session based on the season, location, and overall vision, so we can capture a variety of looks as the light shifts and evolves — all while keeping the experience relaxed and seamless.
SEASONS
Let the Seasons Guide Your Pittsburgh Engagement Session
Each season in Pittsburgh brings a unique look to engagement photos — from soft spring blooms to warm summer light, rich fall tones, and cozy winter neutrals. Together, we’ll choose a season that naturally complements your style, location, and the overall feel you want for your session.
I recommend scheduling your engagement session before sending save-the-dates whenever possible. For local Pittsburgh weddings, that typically means photographing your engagement session about 6–8 months before the wedding.
If you’re planning to use your engagement photos for save-the-dates, I suggest scheduling your session at least two months before you plan to send them. This ensures ample time for potential rescheduling due to weather, image delivery, and printing or design.
If you’re unsure what timeline makes the most sense for your wedding plans, I’m always happy to help you decide.
save the dates
Locations
pittsburgh engagement session locations
CITY ICONS
GARDENS & GREENERY
NATURE & SCENIC VIEWS
ARCHITECTURAL & TIMELESS
Mount Washington Overlook, North Shore Riverwalk, Roberto Clemente Bridge, Point State Park
Carnegie Museum of Art, Allegheny County Courthouse, Mellon Institute
North Park, Frick Park, Schenley Park
Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, Mellon Park, Hartwood Acres
As a Pittsburgh engagement photographer, I help couples choose locations that reflect their style — whether that means iconic city views, lush gardens, or timeless architecture.
If you’re unsure which location feels right for your engagement session, I’m always happy to help you decide based on season, lighting, and overall vibe.
Destination Engagement sessions
If you have a destination in mind for your engagement session, I’m always happy to travel. Travel fees may apply depending on the location.
scheduling and weather
What if the weather is bad or it rains?
Pittsburgh weather can be unpredictable, but I always have a plan. I closely monitor the forecast leading up to your engagement session and will recommend rescheduling if conditions aren’t ideal for lighting, comfort, or the overall experience.
If rain is in the forecast, we can also pivot to a covered or indoor location, including studio options, to ensure your photos still feel timeless, relaxed, and true to you.
Pets
I love your furry family members.
Including your pet in your engagement session is always welcome. After many pet-friendly sessions, I’ve found that starting with your pet and then transitioning into couples portraits works best — keeping things relaxed and fun for everyone.
I recommend choosing a pet-friendly location and bringing treats or a favorite toy to help keep their attention. If needed, a friend can step in to help care for your pet during part of the session so we can capture a variety of images.
outfits and style tips
My tips for looking and feeling your best
Wondering how to make your engagement photos feel more editorial and elevated? Thoughtful outfit choices help create images that feel timeless, cohesive, and true to you.
Movement-friendly fabrics — like flowy dresses, tailored layers, and natural textures — add dimension and softness to your photos without feeling overdone.
If you’re unsure what to wear or how to coordinate your outfits, I’m always happy to help guide you.
I recommend avoiding anything too matchy and instead choosing looks that complement each other through color, texture, and tone. Soft neutrals and subtle patterns photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your connection.
Most couples choose two outfits for their session: one dressier look and one more relaxed option. This adds variety while keeping the experience comfortable and effortles
style tips for her and him
hers and his style tips
01 of 03
A flowy dress adds movement and softness to your photos, while a more casual look allows for relaxed posing and comfort. Together, they create a beautiful mix of styles and moments.
This combination gives your gallery variety while still feeling cohesive and effortless.
Choose two different outfits — you won’t regret it.
Outfit Tips
Styling tips for her
02 of 03
Many couples choose to schedule hair and makeup for their engagement session as a low-pressure way to feel polished and confident in front of the camera.
It’s also a great opportunity to preview how your look photographs before the wedding day — without the stress or timeline of the celebration itself.
Professional hair and makeup can help you look and feel your best.
Hair & Makeup
Styling tips for her
01 of 03
A tailored suit, blazer, or button-down instantly elevates your look while still feeling natural and comfortable. Neutrals and classic tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you.
Small details matter — polished shoes, a watch, or subtle texture can add depth without feeling overdone.
Don't be afraid to dress up for your engagement photos.
Outfit Tips
Styling tips for him
02 of 03
I recommend scheduling a haircut a few days before your session so it looks natural and polished. Clean nails, groomed brows, and subtle beard maintenance can make a big difference in how confident you feel on camera.
Small details matter — they elevate your overall look without drawing attention away from you.
A fresh haircut, trimmed facial hair, and a little grooming go a long way.
Grooming
Styling tips for him
03 of 03
Zara
ASOS
Express Men
H&M
Mango
Frank & Oak
Vince
Rag & Bone
Scotch & Soda
Jack Threads
A few go-to places I recommend for clean, timeless pieces that photograph effortlessly.
Focus on well-fitting basics, neutral tones, and classic styles you feel confident in — simplicity always looks polished on camera.
shopping guide
Styling tips for him
LEAVE IT: SMALL PATTERNS
leave it: overly snug fits
leave it: Graphics and logos
final style notes: things to avoid and outfit suggestions
Avoid: Bright Colors (Red, Orange, Neons)
Balance, Don't Match: Colors and Tones
Avoid: Tennis Shoes, Shorts, Sunglasses, Hats
the rings
Clean Your Rings & Polish Your Hands
I always capture close-up details during your engagement session, including your rings. Giving them a quick clean beforehand helps them photograph beautifully and sparkle in natural light.
Well-moisturized hands and neutral nails photograph best — a little prep goes a long way for these timeless details.
If you’re worried about not knowing what to do with your hands or how to pose — don’t be.
I’ll guide you through everything, from natural movement to gentle prompts that help you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. I keep an eye on the details as we go — posture, hands, hair, and how your outfits fall — so you never have to overthink a thing.My goal is for your session to feel relaxed, effortless, and true to you — not stiff or overly posed.
posing
Date night
Don’t forget to plan something special after your session.
Since you’re already dressed up and feeling your best, I always recommend turning your engagement session into a date night.
Whether it’s dinner at your favorite restaurant, a cocktail at a cozy bar, or a sunset walk through the city, it’s the perfect way to stay in the moment. You’ll already be relaxed, connected, and camera-ready — so why not make the night last a little longer?
three weeks
six weeks
four weeks
when to expect your engagement photos
Online Gallery Delivered
Social Media Sneak Peek
Blog Post With Highlights
experience was so special and seamless
kind words from our couples
Carly made the experience so special and seamless, as well as provided pictures that capture the moment of a lifetime. Can’t thank her enough and we are so happy with how everything turned out. Highest regards and recommendation for her and her business!
— Carly Ferraco Photography Couple
Engagement session
Checklist
✓ Finalize your date, location, and session time
✓ Review this guide for styling tips and inspiration
✓ Schedule hair and makeup (or trials, if applicable)
✓ Choose and prep both outfits
✓ Get a manicure or tidy nails
✓ Have your rings cleaned
✓ Gather any personal props you’d like to include
✓ Pack a small bag with:
– Comfortable shoes for walking between locations
– Touch-up makeup or grooming essentials
– Water and a small snack, if needed
– A light jacket or layer, just in case
Thank you
I CAN’T WAIT FOR YOUR SESSION
I’m truly honored to be part of this season with you. Your engagement marks such a meaningful chapter, and capturing it is something I don’t take lightly.
Thank you for trusting me with these memories — I can’t wait to create something beautiful together.
- Carly Ferraco