SkySight Photography: Blog

Holiday 2026

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 22:29:30 GMT

2026 Holiday Sessions: Studio Sets + On-Location Options

You can now schedule for your holiday sessions in November-December! I suggest calling/emailing soon, and getting on the schedule soon as these sessions go fast!

Check out the blog below for the photos of all of the sets & pricing at the very bottom! I have several studio sets, you'll want to choose the sets you like best and let me know when you schedule!

Did you know you have options for your holiday session? While holiday-themed photos are perfect for the season, we also offer a timeless, non-holiday option! Capture those beautiful family moments in a style you’ll love displaying on your walls all year long. The best part? You can enjoy your holiday memories without the seasonal look! Scroll to the bottom to see these!

SET 1 - ALL WHITE WITH NO HOLIDAY PROPS

(YOUR OUTFITS *ARE* THE PROPS!)

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MODERN GREEN

WITH "PHOTO BOOTH" OPTION

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DEEP GRAY WITH SIMPLE EVERGREEN

& (OPTIONAL) SPARKLE HOLIDAY ACCENTS

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DOWNTOWN GREENSBURG HOLIDAY FUN

*NOT SHOWN BELOW BUT WILL INCLUDE STRING LIGHTS OVER PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, DECORATIONS AROUND GREENSBURG AND MORE - INQUIRE FOR DETAILS

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HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN STUDIO

SET TO VARY ONLY SLIGHTLY FROM IMAGES SHOWN BELOW

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TREES ON LOCATION *SNOW IF YOU'RE LUCKY :)

*INQUIRE FOR LOCATIONS AVAILABLE (TREE FARMS, AUTUMN RIDGE FARM, AND BUSHY RUN BATTLEFIELD AMONG OPTIONS TO CHOOSE FROM, BASED ON DATE/AVAILABILITY)

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HOME BAKING SESSIONS

*ON LOCATION, PRICE DIFFERS.

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FUN WITH MARSHMALLOWS

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THE LIGONIER DIAMOND *SELECT DATES ONLY*

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NON-HOLIDAY OPTIONS

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PRICING

TIER 1:

HALF HOUR LOCATION OPTIONS (PICK ONE):

TREE FARM (+ FARM FEE) *limited dates

LIGONIER DIAMOND WINTER SESSION *limited dates

OUR GREENSBURG STUDIO

DOWNTOWN GREENSBURG DECOR/LIGHTS

$499 - INCLUDING 30 MINS OF SHOOTING, EDITING, POST PROCESSING, ONLINE ALBUM, ONE OUTFIT IN SESSION AND DIGITAL FILES WITH COPYRIGHT RELEASE

HEADSHOT ADD ON:

STUDIO HEADSHOT FOR PARENTS

Update your LinkedIn or Professional Profile Pic! $100 add on - includes outfit change

TIER 2:

EXTENDED SPECIAL SESSIONS(PICK ONE):

AT HOME COOKIE/TREE/DECOR SESSIONS *limited dates

DOWNTOWN PITTSBURGH WALK AROUND (BIG TREE ETC) *limited date

$799- INCLUDING 60 MINS OF SHOOTING, EDITING, POST PROCESSING, ONLINE ALBUM, ONE OUTFIT IN SESSION AND DIGITAL FILES WITH COPYRIGHT RELEASE

$899- INCLUDING 90 MINS OF SHOOTING, EDITING, POST PROCESSING, ONLINE ALBUM, 2 OUTFITS IN SESSION AND DIGITAL FILES WITH COPYRIGHT RELEASE

Omni Bedford Springs spotlight

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 17:08:59 GMT

Venue Spotlight: Omni Bedford Springs Resort

There are some wedding venues that are beautiful, and then there are venues that seem to have been designed with photographs in mind. Omni Bedford Springs Resort is definitely one of those places!

Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains in Bedford, Pennsylvania, Bedford Springs combines historic elegance, beautiful architecture, lush grounds, and stunning mountain scenery all in one location. As a photographer, I love arriving here because there are photo opportunities everywhere I look.

A Photographer's Dream

One of my favorite things about Bedford Springs is the incredible variety of backdrops. From the historic architecture and grand porches to the gardens, mature trees, stonework, expansive lawns, and surrounding mountain landscape, there is no shortage of places to create beautiful portraits.

The resort dates back to 1796, giving it a timeless character that photographs beautifully. I love that we can create elegant, romantic portraits in one area and completely different images just a short walk away.

And the beautiful light is another huge bonus! Whether we're taking advantage of natural light indoors or heading outside for that gorgeous golden-hour glow, there are so many opportunities to create images that feel romantic and natural.

Why Brides Should Consider Bedford Springs

One of the biggest advantages of having your wedding here is that so much can happen in one location. Getting ready, your ceremony, portraits, cocktail hour, reception, and accommodations can all be part of the same property.

That means less time traveling between locations and more time enjoying your wedding day.

There are also multiple beautiful ceremony and reception spaces, including Constitution Hall, the Colonnade Ballroom, Eisenhower Ballroom, the Spa Lawn, The Mill, and the Wedding Grotto. The Wedding Grotto, with its spring-fed waterfall, is especially unique for ceremonies and portraits.

Beyond the wedding itself, Bedford Springs can turn your celebration into a full weekend experience. With the spa, golf, pools, dining, and more than 2,000 acres of beautiful property to explore, your guests have plenty to enjoy before and after the big day.

From Behind My Camera

As a photographer, my goal isn't simply to document what happened. I want your photographs to bring you back to how your wedding day felt.

Bedford Springs gives me an incredible canvas to do that — historic details, beautiful landscapes, elegant architecture, gorgeous light, and countless little corners perfect for intimate portraits.

If you're looking for a wedding venue that feels elegant, timeless, romantic, and surrounded by nature, Omni Bedford Springs is one I absolutely love photographing — and I would be thrilled to capture your wedding there!

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Fall 2026

(SkySight Photography) — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 15:08:35 GMT

2026 FALL SESSIONS

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Several options for our fall sessions this year are in the works!

Scheduling now! See below for our three locations, packages differ per location.

OPTION 1 - BUSHY RUN BATTLEFIELD JEANNETTE PA

(half & one hour sessions)

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This is my main fall location and is shown below in this gallery!

SkySight Photography | Bushy Run

I will be shooting at Bushy Run for about 3 weeks in October

Package options for Bushy Run sessions below

Option A)

$579+tax

Included: 35-40 min session, one location on property, one outfit, editing/post processing, online album, flash drive, all digital files with copyright release to do your own printing. This is suitable for children only, or family only, however if you want children separately, family, as well as sibling poses

Option B)

$799+tax

Included: 60 min session, 2 outfits, several locations on property (ie: trails, woods and fields), editing/post processing, online album, flash drive, all digital files with copyright release to do your own printing. This is suitable for photographing family, siblings, individuals of children and multiple location on site.

OPTION 2 - WASHINGTON'S LANDING PITTSBURGH PA

(one hour sessions)

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I will have 1-2 select dates at this location in late Oct to early November (photos shown in gallery below were photographed Nov 3rd)
Dates TBD - inquire for details

check out the gallery here! SkySight Photography | Washington's landing, Herr's Island

Pricing

$829+tax

Included: 60 min session, 2 outfits, several locations on property (city views & ivy steps), editing/post processing, online album, flash drive, all digital files with copyright release to do your own printing. This is suitable for photographing family, siblings, individuals of children and multiple location on site.

OPTION 3 - HARTWOOD ACRES MANSION

(one hour sessions)

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I will be at Hartwood Acres 10/13 and have a few spots open,

view samples here-

SkySight Photography | Hartwood Acres Mansion

Pricing

$829+tax

Included: 60 min session, 2 outfits, several locations on property, editing/post processing, online album, flash drive, all digital files with copyright release to do your own printing. This is suitable for photographing family, siblings, individuals of children and multiple location on site.

Capturing the Flavors of Fall: Valley Dairy’s New Fall Menu

(SkySight Photography) — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 02:32:26 GMT

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There’s something about fall food that just feels a little more comforting. Warm flavors, seasonal favorites, and dishes that make you want to slow down and enjoy every bite. When Valley Dairy introduced their new fall menu, we had the opportunity to bring those flavors to life through food photography.

For this shoot, our goal was to create images that made each menu item look just as inviting as it does when it arrives at the table. Food photography is about more than simply taking a picture of a dish. It’s about capturing the details, textures, colors, and presentation that make someone want to take that first bite.

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Bringing a New Menu to Life

New menu items are an exciting opportunity for restaurants to refresh their marketing and give customers something new to look forward to. Professional food photography allows those items to become the focus of social media posts, menus, websites, advertisements, and other promotional materials.

For Valley Dairy’s fall menu, we focused on creating images that captured the personality of the season while keeping the food itself at the center of every photograph. From the presentation of each dish to the small details that make a meal feel inviting, we wanted the final images to feel warm, fresh, and approachable.

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Behind the Scenes of Restaurant Food Photography

Restaurant photography often means working quickly while keeping an eye on every detail. Food has a short window where it looks its best, so timing, lighting, styling, and composition all play a very important role.

Our approach is to make the food the star while creating imagery that feels natural to the restaurant’s brand. Every angle, detail, and composition is considered to create photographs that can be used across multiple marketing platforms.

Working on Valley Dairy’s new fall menu was a great example of how professional food photography can help a restaurant showcase what makes its menu special.

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Food Photography for Your Restaurant

Whether you’re launching a new menu, updating your website, promoting seasonal specials, or simply looking for fresh content for social media, professional restaurant food photography can give your marketing a whole new look.

I always love getting to photograph Valley Dairy’s menus and bring their seasonal dishes to life through my lens!

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If your restaurant or business is looking for professional food photography or commercial photography in Greensburg, Westmoreland County, Pittsburgh, or the surrounding Pennsylvania area, we’d love to hear from you. Contact SkySight Photography to talk about your next project!

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Tim & Kim | A Timeless Wedding at Saint Vincent Basilica in Latrobe, Pennsylvania

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 01:27:09 GMT

Some wedding days simply leave a lasting impression, and Tim and Kim's was one of them. Surrounded by their family and closest friends, they exchanged vows at Saint Vincent Basilica in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, creating a day filled with heartfelt moments, meaningful traditions, and so much joy.

From the moment we met them, it was clear that Tim and Kim value the people who matter most. Their wedding was a beautiful reflection of their relationship—thoughtful, genuine, and full of emotion.

We asked Tim and Kim to look back on their wedding day and share a few of their favorite memories, what stood out most when they received their gallery, and what it was like working together. Here's what they had to say.

Autumn: Is there a particular photo that means the most to you? Why?

Tim & Kim: This was a very difficult question to answer. Every time we look through our photos, a different detail jumps out at us and becomes our new favorite photo. One photo in particular (or a set of them), is when my(bride) Granddad saw my dress for the first time. My Nana sadly died before ever getting to meet Timothy and it was very important to me that she be present in some way for this special day. So I wore her wedding dress. Granddad had not seen her dress since their wedding day and his reaction was the beginning of many happy tears that day. Him and I later had a dance during the reception where he proudly stated that he was the only person to dance with that dress twice.

Autumn: If you could relive one moment from your wedding day, what would it be?

Tim & Kim: Photography is a way to capture what you were feeling in the moment. These photos of us walking back up the aisle together after we had said our vows and exchanged our rings, looking at all of the people we love, will be a feeling we will cherish reliving forever.

Autumn: What was your experience like working with us?

Tim & Kim: Autumn was amazing to work with! We loved her style of photography and had complete faith in her vision. She perfectly captured the artistic photos we requested while also capturing the small candid moments that make up the day. I could easily go on singing her praises. But they say a photo is worth a thousand words and she gave us a thousand beautiful photos.

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Maddison & Karl’s Intimate Wedding at The Art Room

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 19:19:19 GMT

Some wedding days are defined by grand celebrations, while others are beautifully intentional and focused on the moments that matter most. Maddison and Karl’s wedding at The Art Room in Pittsburgh was a perfect example of an intimate celebration filled with love, connection, and meaningful moments shared with their closest family and friends.

From their pre wedding portrait session the week before their wedding to the heartfelt ceremony and joyful reception, every part of their story was captured in a way that felt authentic to who they are as a couple.

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A Pre Wedding Portrait Session Before Their Big Day

Rather than a traditional engagement session, Maddison and Karl chose to do a pre wedding portrait session just one week before their wedding day. This gave us the chance to slow down, spend time together, and capture beautiful portraits before the excitement of the wedding arrived.

The session was the perfect way to celebrate this special season of their lives while also helping them feel more comfortable in front of the camera before their wedding day. By the time their celebration arrived, we already had a connection that allowed their personalities and love for each other to shine naturally through their images.

These portraits became a beautiful introduction to their wedding gallery, capturing the anticipation and excitement leading up to their marriage.

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An Intimate Wedding Celebration at The Art Room

The Art Room in Pittsburgh provided the perfect backdrop for Maddison and Karl’s intimate wedding. The modern, artistic space created an atmosphere that felt both elegant and inviting, allowing the focus to remain on what mattered most: their love and the people surrounding them.

With their closest family and friends by their side, Maddison and Karl exchanged vows in a ceremony filled with emotion and genuine moments. The laughter, happy tears, and heartfelt embraces throughout the day reflected just how special this celebration was.

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A Reception Filled With Love and Connection

After the ceremony, Maddison and Karl celebrated their marriage surrounded by the people who mean the most to them. The intimate reception created the perfect environment for meaningful conversations, laughter, and moments that everyone could truly soak in.

One of the most beautiful parts of an intimate wedding is the ability to slow down and be present. Every interaction, every hug, and every shared smile becomes part of the story.

From their portraits together to candid moments throughout the evening, every photograph captured the joy and emotion that filled the room.

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Capturing Their Story

Maddison and Karl’s wedding day was a beautiful reminder that weddings don't have to be large to be unforgettable. What makes a wedding meaningful is the love, connection, and memories created with the people who matter most.

Being able to document their journey, from their pre wedding portraits the week before to their intimate celebration at The Art Room, was such an honor. Their gallery tells the story of not only their wedding day, but the excitement and emotions leading up to it.

Congratulations, Maddison and Karl! Thank you for allowing me to be part of such a special chapter in your lives.

Miranda & Adam’s Impressionist-Inspired Summer Wedding at Cavallo Fields, Latrobe PA

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 04:14:31 GMT

Some wedding days feel like they were painted with intention — every color, every detail, and every moment coming together to tell a beautiful story. Miranda and Adam’s wedding day was exactly that.

On June 20, 2026, Miranda and Adam celebrated their love at Cavallo Fields on what turned out to be the most gorgeous summer day. Surrounded by the people who mean the most to them, they created a wedding experience that was artistic, heartfelt, and completely reflective of who they are as a couple.

With Adam being a painter and Miranda being a musician, creativity naturally played a meaningful role in their wedding vision. Their day was loosely inspired by the Impressionist style of art, incorporating soft, romantic elements and a beautiful color palette of blues and greens. These colors carried even more significance because they are also featured in Miranda’s stunning engagement ring — a thoughtful detail that tied their story together in such a personal way.

Every part of their celebration felt intentional. From the peaceful outdoor setting to the delicate details throughout the day, Miranda and Adam created an atmosphere that felt timeless and uniquely theirs. They exchanged vows beneath the pergola at Cavallo Fields, surrounded by natural beauty and the love of their closest family and friends.

Cavallo Fields provided the perfect backdrop for a wedding filled with artistry, romance, and unforgettable moments. Located in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, this breathtaking venue combines the charm of the countryside with elegant, thoughtfully designed spaces that make every celebration feel special. With its beautiful barn, picturesque outdoor ceremony locations, and stunning views throughout the property, Cavallo Fields offers couples a setting where natural beauty and timeless elegance come together seamlessly. It is a place where every season brings its own magic and where couples can truly create a wedding day that feels like a reflection of their love story.

After their portraits, a summer storm rolled through — but instead of taking away from the day, it created one of the most memorable moments. As the clouds cleared, a gorgeous rainbow appeared, adding an unexpected touch of magic to an already incredible celebration. It was one of those fleeting moments that could never be planned but becomes a part of the story forever.

As the evening continued, Miranda and Adam celebrated with their loved ones, dancing the night away and soaking in every moment of their first day as husband and wife. Their wedding was a beautiful blend of art, music, nature, and love — a true reflection of two creative souls beginning a new chapter together.

It was an absolute honor to capture such a meaningful day. Miranda and Adam, your wedding was a reminder that the most beautiful celebrations are the ones that feel authentic, personal, and filled with the things that make you who you are.

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Tips for dancer, pageant, acting headshots for teens

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 17:55:23 GMT

Tips for dancer, pageant, acting headshots for teens and young adults. For modeling, this guide is slightly different.

For a teen dancer, a headshot should showcase both personality and professionalism. Casting directors, dance schools, agents, and choreographers want to see a natural, confident look that reflects who the dancer is today.

CLOTHING

Stick to solid colors rather than busy patterns.
Choose fitted clothing that flatters the neckline without distracting from the face.
Rich jewel tones, black, navy, burgundy, emerald, or soft earth tones often photograph beautifully.
Avoid large logos, sequins, or overly trendy styles.
Bring 2–3 outfit options for variety.

MAKEUP AND HAIR

Wear hair in a style that's authentic and easy to maintain.
If the dancer regularly auditions with hair up, consider photographing one look with a neat ponytail or bun and another with hair down.
Makeup should enhance, not transform:
- Even skin tone
- Light mascara
- Neutral lip color
- Minimal contour or shimmer
For boys, use a little powder if needed to reduce shine.

SKIN AND PREPARATION

The day before:

Drink plenty of water.
Get a good night's sleep.
Avoid trying new skincare products.
Moisturize lips and skin.

Bring:

Hairbrush or comb
Hair ties and pins
Powder for touch-ups
Lip balm
Water

Should the Headshot Look Like a Glamour Portrait?

Not usually.

Dance headshots are most effective when they are:

Clean
Bright
Natural
Genuine
Current

The goal is for the dancer to look the same when they walk into the audition.

Consider Two Different Looks

Many dancers benefit from having:

A commercial look: friendly, approachable, smiling.
A theatrical/contemporary look: confident, serious, and expressive.

This gives flexibility for different audition opportunities.

If You're Also Taking Dance Photos *additional booking time required in your session

Since you're already in the studio, consider adding:

A clean first arabesque
Leap or grand jeté
Attitude pose
Floor pose
Contemporary movement shot
Classical ballet portrait
Jazz or lyrical pose

These complement the headshots and help create a well-rounded portfolio for auditions, competitions, and applications.

A teen model portfolio should be more versatile than a dancer's portfolio because agencies and clients want to see the model's range while still keeping the images natural and current.

Here are the key changes I'd suggest:

Prioritize Variety

Instead of focusing on dance technique or performance, build a portfolio that demonstrates versatility. Include:

Clean beauty headshots
Smiling commercial portraits
Serious fashion/editorial looks
Three-quarter length portraits
Full-length images
Lifestyle photos
Simple studio portraits

A typical portfolio might include 15–25 final images with a mix of these styles.

Clothing

Bring 5–8 outfit options with different looks, such as:

Classic jeans and a fitted white or black T-shirt
Casual everyday outfit
Trendy fashion look
Simple dress or polished outfit
Athleisure
Denim jacket or leather jacket
Neutral sweater
One outfit with a pop of color

Avoid:

Large logos
Busy prints
Clothing that feels overly trendy or dated
Excessive accessories

Hair and Makeup

Keep styling natural.

Fresh, glowing skin
Minimal makeup
Natural brows
Soft lip color
Hair that reflects how they normally look

Agencies generally prefer seeing the model's real appearance rather than heavy styling.

Include Multiple Expressions

Show emotional range, including:

Big genuine smile
Soft smile
Confident neutral expression
Thoughtful look
Energetic, playful personality

The goal is to demonstrate the ability to connect with the camera.

Show Movement

Add images that feel natural rather than overly posed:

Walking
Laughing
Looking over the shoulder
Sitting naturally
Playing with hair or jacket
Natural movement between poses

Movement creates images that feel authentic and commercial.

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Jason and Jim's Wedding at Mayernik Center, Pittsburgh, PA

(SkySight Photography) — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 03:46:52 GMT

Jason and Jim first reached out nearly a year before their wedding to inquire about photography. After a brief Zoom call, it was immediately clear that we were the right fit for each other—connected by a shared vision for how their day would feel and be remembered.

After years of photographing weddings, I’ve come to recognize those couples who truly value more than just beautiful images. Jason and Jim were that kind of couple—intentional, present, and deeply thoughtful about the experience of their wedding day.

For this feature, I’ve chosen to step back and let their own words and memories guide the story. In doing so, you’re invited to experience their day as they lived it—through the emotion, the energy, and the meaningful moments that made it theirs.

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Autumn:

"What part of the day are you most grateful was captured?"

Jim & Jason:

"Even though it was "our day," we are particularly grateful for the moments with our family and friends being captured. Going through the effort of planning a wedding was important because we wanted to include all of our loved ones and count them in for the celebration.

Since then, my one grandma just turned 90, and we unfortunately lost my other grandma and our cat (who Autumn very patiently waited for while we wrangled him for photos!). We've been using the photos to reflect on how all of them made our day even better."

Autumn:

"What emotions did you feel when you viewed your photos?"

Jim & Jason:

"Laughter, elation, bittersweet happiness, and a (maybe overly?) self-satisfied air of confidence for how well our best sides were captured in every photo!

It really was a rollercoaster of joy, taking our time on all 1,400+ photos to absorb it all in."

Autumn:

What was your experience like working with us?

Jim & Jason:

"From the moment we interviewed with Autumn, we knew SkySight was going to offer exactly what we wanted for our wedding day—a stellarly photographed package of us and our loved ones, and the talent, organization, and light-heartedness to bring it all together in a meaningful way.

I think one of my favorite moments working with them was seeing Bill climb rocks like a lynx to get a good angle while Autumn was still furiously snapping away to make sure no time was wasted in capturing the good lighting.

We took the time to talk about their wedding day too and laugh about the small stuff. They're just cool to hang with, get you comfortable for some shots, and great at what they do."

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Inside the NFL Draft: A Photographer's Perspective from Pittsburgh

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 11 May 2026 16:47:37 GMT

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My draft experience was pretty awesome. First time having NFL credentials for photography and getting that kind of access—definitely a bucket list moment. Just finished sorting through the 3k+ images I shot, and these awesome of my favorites.

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There’s been a lot of noise online about the negatives, but honestly—if you were down there, I think you’d agree: Pittsburgh showed up. Big time. In fact, we’re already being looked at by major investors for future events and opportunities. This was basically our test run… and we nailed it. Great job, Pittsburgh.

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What really stood out to me was how beautiful and welcoming the city felt through everyone else’s eyes. If you dig into the Reddit threads and visitor reactions, it’s actually heartwarming. People talking about how friendly it was—some even saying, “It almost freaked me out how nice everyone was coming from NY, I didn’t know how to react.”

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So many comments about the skyline, the rivers wrapping around the city, and how special Pittsburgh feels. It honestly made me proud to live here.

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I’ll stand by it—the draft was a good thing for us. Not everything was perfect (nothing ever is), but hosting 300K people a day without any major issues? That’s a win in my book.

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College Graduation Photos + Professional Headshots: Why You Should Book Both Together

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 11 May 2026 16:13:06 GMT

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Graduation season is one of the most exciting milestones in a student’s life. Whether you’ve already crossed the stage or you’re counting down the days until you do, this moment deserves to be documented in a way that feels both meaningful and useful for what comes next.

At SkySight Photography, I'm seeing more college seniors choose to combine their graduation session with a professional headshot session—and for good reason.

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Graduation photos capture the celebration. The cap and gown, the campus you’ve called home, the friends you’ve made along the way, and the feeling of finally finishing something you worked years for. These images are about memory, achievement, and joy.

But headshots tell the next part of your story.

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After graduation, you’re stepping into job interviews, LinkedIn profiles, internships, and new opportunities. A clean, professional headshot helps you show up confidently and makes a strong first impression in any professional space. Instead of scrambling later to find a photo that works, you can leave your session already prepared.

Combining both sessions is also simple and efficient. You’re already dressed, already on location, and already in the mindset of celebrating this milestone. It’s the perfect time to capture both sides of this transition: the accomplishment and the beginning of what’s next.

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Whether you’ve already graduated or your big day is coming up, now is the ideal time to book. Graduation season moves quickly, and these moments don’t come back around.

Celebrate where you’ve been. Prepare for where you’re going. And make sure you have the images to match both!

Summer fields 2025 Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 04 May 2026 19:18:19 GMT

SUMMER FIELD SESSIONS BOOKING NOW!

JULY IS THE MONTH FOR THE BEST BLOOMS!

LOCATION: Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve, Latrobe PA

DATES: various dates between mid July and first full week of August

PACKAGE: 45 mins with all editing, digital files, copyright release and a 10x13 art print for $649 plus tax

Don't miss out on this amazing time of the year for portraits!

Available for ~ Family, children, maternity ~

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Attention 2027 Seniors: Senior Portrait Packages and Headshot Special

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 15:58:22 GMT

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‼️Attention 2027 Seniors‼️

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Senior Portrait Packages

Click here to view Seniors Gallery

Package 1: Two Outfit Studio or Outdoor, $700

60 minute session
Within 15 miles of studio at pre-approved locations
2 outfits
up to 1 prop shot allowed (Examples: a drum with sticks, or cross country medals, letter jacket and track shoes)
Includes 100-150 edited digitals and a copyright release

Package 2: Three outfit Studio or Outdoor, $850

90 minute session
Within 15 miles of studio at pre-approved locations
3 outfits, up to 2 prop shots allowed (Examples: a drum with sticks -and- cross country medals, letter jacket and track shoes)
Includes 150-200 edited digitals and a copyright release

Package 3: Extended Location Session Outdoor, $950

90 minute session
Within 50 miles of studio at pre-approved locations (Pittsburgh, Seven Springs, etc)
3 outfits
Includes 150-200 edited digitals and a copyright release

Discount options - see below

Pre-Approved Outdoor Location Options

Outdoor Locations within 15 miles of Studio

Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve See Gallery Here
Autumn Ridge Farm* See Gallery Here
Bushy Run See Gallery Here
Downtown Greensburg See Gallery Here

Outdoor Locations within 50 miles of Studio

Mellon Park See Gallery Here
Downtown Pittsburgh See Gallery Here
Hartwood Acres See Gallery Here

*Autumn Ridge Farm requires a separate fee for photography.

Discount Senior Shoot-out Days!

These days are a set date and time, you will not get to schedule your own date based on choice/availability. The date and time slots open will be given to you by reaching out over email. Because the options will be changing based on bookings, I will not post the dates/times here. They will be limited to a few options in June & July. On a senior shoot out day, you will be given a half hour slot. You may be schedule before/after another client so it is imperative that you arrive before the start time of your slot, and be dressed/ready. You are permitted one outfit and one prop item(s), and the session is 30 mins. Each slot is $400 and includes the digital files from your session! Pre-payment of nonrefundable amount of $200 is required to book, then a balance of $200 due at session. Ask about cash discounts.

To find out the next shoot-out date and location - email me at [email protected]

Need just headshot in studio? or as an add-on to an outdoor session?
On October 12th, 2026, SkySight Photography will be offering a Senior Studio Headshot Day! Morning and afternoon slots are available.

Pricing:

$125 for the mini session
$50 as an add-on if you’ve already booked a summer outdoor/studio session with SkySight Photography

Book Your Senior Photography Session Today!!

If you’re looking for a senior pictures photographer in Greensburg or Pittsburgh, PA, and surrounding areas, I’d love to create something special for your senior year. Let’s plan a session that feels effortless, fun, and completely personalized.

Contact [email protected] to book today!!

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Capturing a Milestone: Local Government Academy Graduation

(SkySight Photography) — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:17:02 GMT

There’s something especially meaningful about documenting moments that represent both achievement and service to community. Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph the Local Government Academy graduation, an experience that felt both professional and personal in the best way.

From the moment guests began arriving, there was a sense of pride in the room. Everyone gathered to celebrate individuals who have dedicated themselves to learning how to better serve their local governments.

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As the photographer, my goal was to document more than just posed moments on stage. I focused on the in-between details that tell the fuller story: the quiet smiles before names were called, the proud glances from the audience, the firm handshakes, and the genuine laughter shared between graduates after receiving their certificates.

The ceremony itself was a reminder of how important local leadership is. Each graduate represents a commitment to strengthening the communities they serve, and being able to preserve that moment in time was an honor. These are the kinds of events where photography feels especially meaningful, not just because of what is happening visually, but because of what it represents for the people involved.

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After the formal portion of the event, I spent time capturing group photos and candid interactions. Those final moments often hold some of the most authentic emotion of the day. The excitement is still fresh, the relief has settled in, and there’s a shared understanding of accomplishment that doesn’t need words.

Events like the Local Government Academy graduation remind me why I love event photography. It’s about preserving milestones that matter—moments people will look back on years from now and remember exactly how it felt to be there.

Behind the Scenes: Capturing Valley Dairy's New Summer Menu

(SkySight Photography) — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:06:05 GMT

There’s something about summer food that just feels different, lighter, brighter, and made to be enjoyed slowly. I recently had the chance to photograph the new summer menu at Valley Dairy Restaurant, and it was one of those shoots that did not feel like work in the best way!

From the start, the goal was to capture more than just the dishes themselves. It was about translating that easy, nostalgic summer feeling into images, something that makes you want to sit a little longer, order dessert, and soak it all in.

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The kitchen was moving nonstop, bringing out plate after plate, each one carefully prepared and styled. Fresh colors, clean presentation, and those classic comfort food details that Valley Dairy does so well. Photographing food like this is all about balance, keeping things polished while still making it feel real and approachable. You want people to look at a photo and immediately picture themselves there.

In addition to photographing the new menu, I had the opportunity to grab some great shots of the staff! We posed for some onsite headshots and took some candids as they interacted with customers!

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Working with a team that truly cares about what they are creating always makes a difference. There is an authenticity that comes through in the final images when everyone involved is invested, and that was definitely the case here. Summer menus are meant to feel fun and a little indulgent, and that is exactly what we aimed to capture. Bright flavors, familiar favorites, and that classic diner charm that never really goes out of style. Getting to visually tell that story for Valley Dairy was such a fun project and a good reminder that sometimes the best part of the job is simply capturing something that already feels special. If you are planning to stop in, definitely come hungry!

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Travel with Autumn to Ireland in 2027 with G Adventures partnered with National Geographic

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 01:54:56 GMT

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It’s official… I can finally announce our next trip will be to

IRELAND!!!

MAY 1-9, 2027

With G Adventures & National Geographic

$3,749.00 USD per person- based on Double occupancy

Plus photography fee (see details below)

Deposit only $350 USD to reserve your spot!

A land of ancient legends, epic folktales, and grand traditions, Ireland is a destination that will truly transport you back in time. Uncover Celtic culture and admire medieval architecture across the stunning countryside, and delve into historic Dublin and the "rebel city" of Cork. Eat, dance, and sing with locals—even kiss the Blarney Stone—as you follow the roots of Irish culture to its core and come home with some Irish ballads of your own.

DETAILS

Photography by Autumn! I’ll capture you as you travel including candids and posed portraits!
Photo tips for you to learn better technique for taking photos on your own (phone or camera is fine)!
The comfort of traveling with G ADVENTURES partnered with National Geographic!
Dublin to Dublin tour! 9 days/ 8 nights
Cork, Killarney, Galway City, Cliffs of Moher
8 breakfasts, 1 dinner
Travel with a group of like-minded individuals
Meet everyone in advance through Zoom meet and greet sessions!
Travel in May, before the peak of the summer tourism starts!
This tour rates a 4.7/5 among previous travelers of G Adventures!

Extra fees / not included in $3749 package:

Your flight - but a direct from PIT to Dublin is now available!
Allow approximately $300 for meals not included
Extra visits while in cities, for example you can purchase tickets for tours of castles, cathedrals, performances and more. These optional add on activities range from around $8-30.
Photography fee to Autumn for $375 pp, or ask about our couples discount! This covers your photos for the entire week and photography instruction!

Your Journey Highlights:

Dinner and a Tale or Two, Dublin Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Whiskey and Chocolate Tasting, Killarney Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group Your Discover Moment: Dublin. Visit to Trinity College Dublin. Blarney Castle visit. Ring of Kerry guided day excursion. Galway City walking tour. Cliffs of Moher cruise and guided tour. Cork orientation walk. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

ITINERARY

Depart on your overnight flight April 30

Day 1 - May 1st

Arrive at any time.

Day 2

In the morning, set out on an orientation walk led by your Expedition Leader around Dublin, then enjoy some free time to explore the city's Medieval Quarter, visit St. Patrick's Cathedral, set foot in Dublin Castle, or tour a whiskey distillery. Later, explore Trinity College Dublin, founded in 1592. Visit its famed library and view the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript dating to the ninth century. In the evening, dine on Irish fare, accompanied by storytelling and traditional music, in a traditional Irish pub. Welcome dinner included.

Day 3

Travel to the charming city of Cork and set out on an orientation walk; then spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your own. Choose to visit the Cork County Gaol—a former prison—or learn about the voyage of the Titanic in the original ticket office of the White Star Line. Wander the stalls at the historic English Market or settle into a pub for a locally brewed pint of Murphy’s Irish Stout.

Day 4

Begin the day with a visit to Blarney Castle, built nearly 600 years ago and now one of the most iconic sights in Ireland. Climb a flight of steps to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, a ritual said to grant the gift of the gab. Continue to Killarney for an afternoon spent tasting whiskey and chocolate with a local expert. In the evening, opt to enjoy a traditional Celtic dance performance.

Day 5

Set out on a full-day excursion around the famed Ring of Kerry, considered one of Ireland’s most scenic drives. Take in stunning views of the Iveragh Peninsula’s windswept coast and lush, wild forests. View historic castles, churches, and seaside villages before returning to Killarney for a night at leisure.

Day 6

This morning, head to the stunning Cliffs of Moher and board a boat for a coastal cruise. Enjoy exceptional views of one of Ireland’s most well-known natural wonders from water level, In the months of May to early July, you might spot puffins along the cliffs. After the cruise, explore the Cliffs' visitor centre before continuing to Galway, a historic harbor city on Ireland's west coast. As the gateway to the Galway Gaeltacht, one of the country's last Irish-speaking regions, Galway offers a unique blend of culture and history.

Day 7

Set on a guided walking tour of Galway, delving into the history of conquest that has shaped Irish culture, and getting a taste of the city’s reputation as a hub for art and music. Enjoy a free afternoon exploring the local arts scene or wandering historic streets.

Day 8

Return to Dublin this morning and enjoy a free afternoon to explore Ireland's dynamic capital. Stroll among the colorful gardens of St. Stephen's Green, pop into historic pubs in Temple Bar, or view the famed bog bodies housed in the National Museum of Ireland. Opt to visit the Guinness Storehouse for insights into the history of beer and a taste of their famed stout, then gather for an optional farewell dinner with your group at a local restaurant.

Day 9 - May 9th

After breakfast, Depart at any time. Arrive back in America by evening May 9

G Adventures Cancellation Policy & Insurance Requirements

Cancellation 60 days or more prior to departure = Deposit paid will become a Lifetime Deposit (LTD) and stay on file in your name to use on a G Adventures trip in the future.
Cancellation between 30 and 59 days prior to departure = LTD + 50% loss of final payment
Cancellation within 30 days of departure = LTD + 100% loss of final payment
It is mandatory for all of our travellers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD we also strongly recommend purchasing an all-inclusive plan that covers cancellation/interruption insurance as well.

NFL DRAFT SOURCE PROGRAM PHOTOGRAPHER

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 18:01:01 GMT

SkySight Photography is officially an approved supplier of the NFL through the 2026 NFL Draft Source Program! We are a local Pittsburgh business selected to compete for contracts related to the 2026 NFL Draft!

Easter egg dying sessions

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 17:31:50 GMT

Egg dying sessions

For the last few years I've captured some amazing moments of my daughter dying Easter eggs, a tradition I remember so fondly from my own childhood and excited to pass on to her. I decided that this year I will offer Easter Egg Dying Sessions! The sessions will include candid moments of your children, close ups of their adorable small hands and their proud faces when they see the results of their amazing eggs!

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Spring outdoor blossom sessions

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 17:27:24 GMT

This year's spring blossom sessions will take place between April 14 and 18th, which is when these gorgeous pink blooms will appear! The sessions take place in Pittsburgh (Location revealed before session) so if you are interested and available these dates, book early to secure a spot!

Pricing for these sessions as follows...

OPTION 1)

30 mins - $500 including digital files

OPTION 2)

45 mins (two outfits or for larger families or engagement) - $650 including digital files

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Mothers Day

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 17:25:43 GMT

Mother's Day Minis!

Reach out about dates available!!

Packages -

30 mins with digital files $400

60 mins with digital files $600

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Bombay Hook, Assateague Island, Shenandoah - an American east coast safari road trip

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 14:50:35 GMT

ROAD TRIP SUGGESTION

EAST COAST SAFARI IN 6 DAYS!

PENNSYLVANIA - DELAWARE - MARYLAND - VIRGINIA

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Looking for a trip to take that whisks you away to a foreign land with amazing sea birds, horses running down a sandy beach, and black bears in a deep forest? Look no further than Delaware, Virginia, and Maryland - all in a 6 day road trip! YES - You don't have to go extremely far from home to go on a real life safari :) Well - the east coast of America type of safari!

START: PITTSBURGH

DELAWARE - birds! birds! birds!

Day 1 - Travel east about 5 hours by car to Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge in Delaware. If you leave Pittsburgh at dawn, you'll arrive by 11am or lunchtime at the latest. Spend the day here driving the loop. You will see amazing birds, walk among beautiful trails over wetlands, and possibly experience some woodland creatures. I attended in March and even on a misty foggy day, it was absolutely beautiful with a LOT of bird sightings. Check out the list of species you can see listed by month here! Stay overnight in the area for a one night stay.

MARYLAND - wild horses!

Day 2 - Travel south after breakfast just into Maryland and down the coast. Take your time, and at Milford take the coastal highway Rt 1 so that you'll do the majority of the drive along the oceanfront highway. It may add a few minutes to your travel, so your GPS will likely not suggest it as the first route option but it's worth the views. When you arrive in Ocean City, cross over to West Ocean City then take the road (rt 611) to Assateague Island. Great stops to make on that road to the beach would be: (1) grab a fresh acai bowl for lunch at the Assateague Island Surf Shop (2) Stop in to Assateague Market, just a mile or so further and get some souvenirs and pickup snacks to take to the beach (3) about another mile or so further, stop at the visitor's center. After the visitor's center, you'll cross the bridge onto the island. Make the first right and drive towards the entrance to the National Seashore part of the island (If you go straight you'll stop at the state park beach). Take the drive fully down the stretch of the island until the road stops (about a 15 min drive). You'll have to use your national park pass after about halfway down this road, or else you can stop and turn back to stay in the state park section (about $5 I believe). I like the end of this road where you can park and get beach access from there, it is an amazing beach and worth the quiet at this end of the island. If you go in mid summer, be prepared for a LOT of traffic, but if you go in off season *(up until Memorial Day or after Sept 1st) its absolutely blissful. Along this drive of the island you will see many horses along the road or in the bay area. These wild horses are beautiful and amazing to watch, just don't get close. If you stay on the beach for the day you might be lucky enough to have a pack of horses pass you by as they walk down the shore. Stay overnight in West Ocean City or Ocean City.

Day 3 - Return for another day on Assateague Island! Enjoy everything this national seashore has to offer. Spend your nights having dinner in Ocean City or walking the boardwalk. Stay overnight again.

VIRGINIA - woodland creatures and black bears!

Day 4 - You can begin your drive back to Pittsburgh this day and complete your long weekend here - or you can extend another few days if you'd like to expand your safari a bit more. If so, hop in the car and start driving west. This will be a half day of driving, about 6 hours to get to Shenandoah National Park. Then once you enter, you will slowly wind the Skyline Drive at 45mph - take your time and enjoy this part of the drive. Some of the best parts of the park are just driving this road. I suggest having a place booked in Skyland or Big Meadows Lodge. (or you can camp!) Those are the only two places to stay inside the park. Once you enter the park at one of the four Skyline Drive entrances, its best to stay inside the park until you want to leave. Check in to your room (for a 2 night stay) and enjoy an evening hike and some dinner, then rest up for a long hiking day tomorrow.

Day 5 - Spend the day hiking the trails around the middle of the park, near the lodge. This blog I've written about Shenandoah National Park is packed full of information on where to hike! If you plan on going to Shenandoah, definitely read that blog after this one! Stay another night in the lodge. You will see a lot of wildlife in this park including deer, woodland creatures and very possibly some black bears. Don't worry they're very docile and calm, black bears are nothing to worry about but don't get close as is the rule with all wildlife! Keep your eyes peeled at the overlooks for eagles, falcons and other birds of prey. Also watch on any rocks in warm weather for rattlesnakes. There are SO many great hikes here that go to both waterfalls and vistas- if you only have one day I suggest doing a high vista or rock scramble (like Bearfence trail) and a deep waterfall (Dark Hollow Falls trail) There are overlooks all along Skyline Drive with ample parking at each, which all have an access point to the Appalachian Trail, so you can go out & back on any of those AT trails as well. The AT trails are mostly all low elevation gain, whereas the vistas and waterfall hikes will be a short but steep out & back mostly. Some trails are loops where you will see everything in one awesome hike.

Day 6 - If you've had enough hiking for that one day its time to head home - but this park has so much to offer, I would suggest staying another day and leaving on Day 7. However for this itinerary, I'll suggest this as an exit day to drive home. From here, you'll be back in Pittsburgh in about 4-5 hours, giving you the evening to unpack and unwind from an action packed trip full of wildlife!

END: PITTSBURGH

Photos of all locations below!

BOMBAY HOOK, DELAWARE:

(March, on a misty foggy day)

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ASSATEAGUE ISLAND, MARYLAND:

(photos from both spring and summer)

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SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK:

(various seasons)

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Amalfi Coast trip wrap up!

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 02:25:11 GMT

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In 2025, I toured the Amalfi Coast of Italy with this amazing group of individuals! A concept born out of conversation with Cindy from Toukan International Travels over a year prior to this trip, and now the adventure has come and gone. It was a wonderful time with so many amazing people. Follow along below through the journey of photos to read about some of the fun days we had in Sorrento, Capri, Positano and more!

As you scan this blog of photos, take note of the moments captured. This is my goal of the trip! To follow along the travelers, capture the memories and give some helpful instructions along the way as well.

For more landscape photos of the Amalfi Coast you can visit that gallery here

To join us on a future trip, check out my travels page for more info!

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Beautiful Sorrento! our home base!

After flying into Naples, our car service transported us to our amazing hotel with views of the sunrise over Mt Vesuvius every morning.

Staying in Sorrento, Italy feels like living inside a postcard, where lemon-scented air, pastel buildings, and sweeping views of the Bay of Naples set the tone for everyday life. Perched on dramatic cliffs above the sea, Sorrento offers the perfect balance of relaxed coastal charm and easy access to iconic destinations like Capri, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast. Days unfold slowly with espresso in sunlit piazzas, wandering narrow streets filled with artisan shops, and lingering meals that stretch into golden evenings. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, savor each moment, and fall effortlessly in love with southern Italy.

The four star Hotel Minerva was perfect - the staff, view, pool, deck, rooms, and food were all outstanding.

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A private boat tour around the island of Capri was one of the highlights on day 2!

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One of my favorite places to eat was Mama Che! Fresh homemade pasta made all day long - the pasta on your plate was just made minutes before cooking. Quite possibly the best I ever had... reminded me just of my grandmother's who was born in Sicily!

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The view from our hotel balcony was of the town of Sorrento. I could not get enough of that daily view! Cindy was next door to my room and we had the best time laughing over morning coffee al fresco.

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One of my favorite days was the trip down the Amalfi coast by car. We stopped in Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. Each one so unique and different. I've been to all three before and even returning I found new things to discover. I love this stop at the top of the hill before descending into Positano to see the town from above. Here's a great shot of Jeff admiring that view.

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We checked out some amazing old churches that were hundreds of years old! I loved this moment that Dan and Joanne stopped to light a candle and say a prayer. Inside Joanne's bag was a Christmas present for her daughter!

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After a hot long day of walking we arrived by car to Ravello and everyone went straight for a table at a cafe. I caught Barb checking out the wine list.

Visiting Ravello, Italy feels like stepping into a dream suspended above the Amalfi Coast, where terraced gardens, ancient villas, and endless sea views create a sense of quiet magic. High above the bustle of the coast below, Ravello moves at a gentler pace, inviting you to linger in places like Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, where panoramic vistas steal your breath at every turn. The air feels calmer here, filled with music, history, and soft coastal light, making Ravello a place not just to visit, but to truly feel.

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As Cindy and her husband Danny were descending the stairs in Amalfi she turned to laugh at one of his jokes, I love this moment right here!

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Lifelong friends, Kristina and Sam having breakfast overlooking the view of Mt Vesuvius.

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Barb and her lifelong friend Dale enjoying the private boat tour of Capri! She spotted something on the cliff.

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Gail and Jeff had their favorite spot at breakfast - the center view.

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Along the Path of the Gods - a bucket list hike that people from all over the globe come to do!

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Overlooking Positano from the Path of the Gods

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The very sweet ending to all! We completed The Path of the Gods!

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Lori and Dale were soaking up the sun and memories.

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An impressive barista made me a custom latte for Capri

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Gail sampling the smells of some local perfumes.

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Popular for good reason - a limoncello spritzer!

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On a free day for shopping and photography exploration! (everyone bought leather jackets so on the flight home we looked like a biker pack, all wearing our favorite new finds on the plane)

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They were strangers on 5 days prior, then Jeff and Dan became lifelong besties on this trip.

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Visiting Positano is like watching a painting come to life, with its cascade of colorful homes tumbling down the cliffs toward the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. Every turn reveals narrow stairways, bougainvillea-draped balconies, and boutiques tucked into the hillside, all buzzing with effortless Italian style. Days are spent lounging on pebble beaches, sipping limoncello with a view, and soaking in sunsets that glow gold and coral as the town lights begin to twinkle. Positano doesn’t just impress you—it pulls you in and leaves a lasting imprint long after you’ve gone.

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Sandy and Tony learned about how to take better photos on their phones in Amalfi, and definitely enjoyed that Capri tour as well!

Visiting the town of Amalfi is a journey into the heart of the coast’s history, where dramatic cliffs meet the sea and centuries-old traditions still shape daily life. At the center of it all stands the iconic Duomo di Amalfi, its striking striped façade and grand staircase drawing you upward into a space rich with mosaics, arches, and quiet reverence. The piazza buzzes with life below the cathedral, blending seaside energy with timeless beauty, and making Amalfi a place where culture, faith, and coastal charm come together effortlessly.

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As a wedding photographer, one of my favorite parts to this trip was watching couples who have been married for many years to celebrate and enjoy every moment together!

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Sam, Camille and Joanne caught in a happy moment at sea!

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New travel opportunities with Autumn

(SkySight Photography) — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 03:21:44 GMT

Travel to Portugal with a photographer!

Two years ago I announced a new adventure in SkySight Photography - called TRAVEL WITH AUTUMN

In the fall of 2025, I traveled on a group trip to the Amalfi Coast of Italy with a group of 16 people with Kensington Tours. Led by our travel agent team, Cindy and Danny Toukan of Toukan International Travels, who booked our trip as well traveled with us - we experienced luxury at its finest. Our day tours were unbelievable, and the food was to die for! My role for the trips is to capture photographs of the fellow travelers we are with, both candid and posed, as well as give some tips to help them on their own phones or cameras. Our next adventure takes off on Sept 6, 2026 to Portugal with Collette Tours!

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Sunny Portugal Group Tour

Lisbon, Evora, Lagos, Portimão, Monchique, Azeitão, Cascais, Obidos, Sintra

Spots are filling fast!! Don’t wait. Sign up today.

Dates: September 6-15, 2026

Activity level: 2 Moderate

Price per person: From $4,999(dbl) Includes round trip flights

or inquire for land only portion if you book your own flights!

*Payment due to Collette Tours

Duration: 10 days

Meals: 13 included

Photography fee:

Includes instruction, photography of you & travel partner on trip!

$300 per person

Keep scanning to see photos from our Amalfi Trip! What do I photograph?

* Landscapes of the scenery, so you don't have to capture it all yourself

* Candids of everyone enjoying the moments

* Portraits taken in various places throughout our visit

* Photos of every meal so you can share on social media what you ate!

*and I'll give tips along the way teaching you how to take photos on your phone as well!
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Valentines Day Special for Couples in Studio

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 18:43:29 GMT

Saturday, February 14th

12-3pm slots open

*Other dates available by request through the end of February*

Indulge in a Valentine’s Day couples mini designed with a refined sense of glamour and romance. This exclusive session focuses on elevated styling, elegant posing, and cinematic moments that beautifully highlight your connection. Ideal for couples who want to feel confident, sophisticated, and effortlessly in love, these sessions are crafted to create timeless, luxurious images you will cherish long after Valentine’s Day.

February 14th sessions are midday, so you can start your date night early with this intimate session then move on to a late lunch or early dinner and beat the crowds for reservations. Consider hiring a makeup artist before your session, then have your look flawless for the entire Valentines Day celebration with your loved one. Looking for a local MUA -- Reach out to Julie or Joy!

Valentines Day Special

25 images included

1 outfit

All digital files edited and able to downloaded

$499

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Valentines Day inspired by Marie Antoinette's French bedroom with cake!

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 18:18:40 GMT

DSC_1091 I saw an image in Architectural Digest of this beautiful pink and blue French bedroom full of clothes strewn about. I knew I had enough pieces in my studio to recreate it, so I started throwing things into a corner that held that vibe strong. I kept looking back at the magazine and fussing with props and realized, if I just stop and leave it a mess - it worked. So I decided here it is, my 2026 Valentines Set is complete.

This set can be for anything that strikes you. I have a few examples below of some fun ideas. The question is, what does Valentine's Day mean to you? is it about friendship, love for someone else (or cat) or love for yourself? Whatever it is, if you feel moved by the feel of this room I can make you feel amazing and capture that feeling in photography.

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And so here it is, the fun set created with the AD inspirational photo in mind.

What will this set turn into for you?

How about some of these fun examples below to spark you :)

CELEBRATING BEING SEVEN!

A bit of Fancy Nancy (who is obsessed with all things French and fancy) mixed with Marie Antoinette inspiration here - a French bedroom and as she said, let them eat cake!

A fun way to celebrate being SEVEN ? Cake, crowns, dressing up and feeling like a princess!

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40 YEARS OF FRIENDSHIP

Celebrate your best friends this Galentines Day! A group of girls getting together to hang out and reminisce on the days of being kids together and popping some champagne to celebrate being friends since they were 5!

Read more about our full Galentine's Day shoot special here

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This mini session is 30 minutes.

1 outfit / props provided

I do have dresses available for ages 2-10 and some adult sizes in my studio closet

All editing and digital files with copyright release included

$425

*no food or beverage included but they are allowed to be brought for the shoot*

Galentines Day

(SkySight Photography) — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 22:42:23 GMT

Galentine's Day 2026 Special

Valentine's Day has long been a holiday for a date with your romantic partner. But more recently, you may have started to hear about the craze for celebrating Galentines Day. A girls day out, drinks/dinner, or activity to spend time with your best girls like shopping or a spa day. I have loved this idea since I first heard about it and have been wanting to toss out a Galentine's Day Special to my clients for the last few years. So here it is... ladies, get your friends gathered! You won't want to miss out on this!

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What does this shoot include?

Group photos together & Individual professional headshots

Caution - laughter may happen...

& Champagne, of course.

Take a chance, and give some special attention to those friends you've known for a lifetime. Pull them together for an afternoon, to truly capture the friendship and love you have for each other. You might just be shocked at what an hour-long photoshoot can really turn into.

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Today I photographed a group of friends.

The girls you see below have been friends since school—some of them since kindergarten. These days, they get together to share stories about their own children graduating high school, and they laugh while swapping notes on how their bodies are changing together—yet again—in their 40s. They’re a group of friends who have walked through every stage of life side by side: childhood, puberty, college, marriage, the birth of children, infertility, divorce, and now menopause. When you put five women together, you truly touch on every aspect of womanhood.

As I photographed them and listened to stories of the ’80s and ’90s—alongside conversations about very real fears like breast cancer—I couldn’t help but feel some Firefly Lane vibes floating around. And it made me smile and think... Oh, something else happened here.

What started as a group of girls committing to an afternoon of having their photos taken in matching outfits, simply as a favor to me so I could test out my Galentine’s shoot theory, quickly turned into something more. Memories were shared. Gynecologist names were swapped. And what began as “just photos in our jeans and t-shirts” evolved into everyone feeling confident enough to try on the pinkest, poofiest dress in my studio closet—right around the time the second bottle of champagne was topped off.

Before we wrapped up, I photographed each of them individually. These strong women are professionals, ranging from the medical field to education, and they each deserved an updated portrait for their professional profiles. As the shoot wound down and hugs were exchanged, I felt such warmth over what had really happened that day. A group of women, already as close as sisters, bonded even deeper through portraits taken together.

They walked away with more than just memories. They now have photos to hold onto forever from a simple afternoon hanging out in jeans, just being themselves.

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As a fun added bonus, the photo shoot sparked these friends to all collectively dig out their old photo albums from the 90's. Reminiscing on prom, vacations and senior week. I couldn't resist stealing a handful to add to this blog - what a beautiful long friendship still going strong!

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Celebrate Galentine’s Day with a Girls’ Day Out Photo Shoot 💕

Galentine’s Day is all about celebrating friendship, confidence, and the women who make life sweeter—and what better way to do that than with a fun, glam photo shoot designed just for you and your favorite girls?

This special Girls’ Day Out Galentine’s Photo Shoot is the perfect excuse to get dressed up, sip champagne, laugh together, and walk away with gorgeous images you’ll treasure long after February 14th.

What This Shoot Is All About

This experience is designed to capture both your friendships and your individual beauty.

Group photos of you and your friends together—fun, stylish, and full of connection
Individual “gorgeous” portraits of each girl
- Perfect for profile photos and social media
- Polished enough to be used as a professional headshot
- A beautiful option to gift to a significant other for Valentine’s Day (hello, framed print 💝)

Whether you’re celebrating best friendships, lifelong bonds, or just want an excuse for a memorable girls’ day, this shoot is all about feeling confident and celebrated.

What’s Included

A professional photo shoot in studio
Digital files to easily share online and on social media
Champagne to enjoy during your session
Total studio time: 2 hours
- 30 minutes to prep (get dressed, touch up hair and makeup)
- 90 minutes of shooting time

After your session, a list of local restaurant recommendations can be provided upon request—perfect for planning a fun lunch or dinner to continue your Galentine’s celebration. Let us know in advance if you'd like us to make a reservation for you. (Hint we suggest reserving a private igloo outside at El Diablo!)

Group Size & Pricing

This experience is ideal for small or larger friend groups.

Suggested group size: 2–10 people
- Come as a pair of best friends
- Or gather your full circle of lifelong friends

Pricing:

$800 for 2–4 people
$950 for 5–10 people

Venmo, check, credit cards all accepted. Split the cost among all the people attending. So for a group of five, that is $190/each - less than the cost of an individual headshot session!

Winter 2026 Family Portrait Special

(SkySight Photography) — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 21:48:18 GMT

FEBRUARY PORTRAIT SPECIAL 2026

Each winter I run a February family portrait special. This might seem like an odd time of year to get a new family photo - but I actually love it. There are a lot of reasons you can take advantage of this month for an updated photo of your family.

There is not a lot happening this month, easier to schedule your family when you don't have the hustle and bustle of summer or right before Christmas.
If your kids are a little older, you can absolutely use the photo taken in February for your next holiday card 10 months down the road because they won't look much different. So you can check one thing off for next holiday now.
Take advantage of a great opportunity to get a family portrait done for the purpose of just that - a new photo for your wall. its not all about the holiday card, so you can wear anything you want, seasons don't matter.
Late winter is a great time to sit down to review your photos and redecorate your house/walls with new canvas or framed prints.
This is the one time of year we offer full hour portrait sessions at a discounted rate.
Outdoor photos on the beach, in the fall, or a flower field are gorgeous - no doubt. We love those too. But most families have been focusing on those nature locations for the last ten years of trending portraits. I love the idea of taking it back to the classic studio sessions, which really focus on faces and personality, not flowers and golden hour glow.
Its a great time of year to capture milestones, the start of the new year, and focus on the ages of your children in 2026.
Photos will be ready for Mother's Day and Father's Day - perfectly setting up portrait gifts for grandparents.

Studio 60 mins - $299
Digital files with copyright release from 60 minute session… $399
Total $698

SPECIAL RATE $100 OFF TOTAL=

February special $598

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New year, new headshots

(SkySight Photography) — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 20:59:39 GMT

2026 IS YOUR YEAR FOR A NEW HEADSHOT

Its a new year - and I bet you're considering whether that headshot from a conference in 2017 can squeak out another year before you need to schedule a new one. I can answer that for you - nope. Let's get you an up-to-date portrait this month. Its time to impress your boss, your clients, or your followers - lets give you that fresh look that truly reflects where you are in your professional career.

JANUARY & FEBRUARY SPECIAL

45 mins in studio

Two looks/outfits

About 40 digital proofs

10 digital files (of your choice) full edited to download

$499

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Boudoir Valentine's Day Special 2026

(SkySight Photography) — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 20:44:07 GMT

Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love—and there’s no better place to start than with yourself. A boudoir shoot is more than a gift; it’s an experience designed to help you feel confident, beautiful, and unapologetically empowered. Whether you’re creating something intimate for a partner or simply honoring your own journey, a Valentine’s boudoir session captures your unique sensuality in a way that’s timeless, elegant, and deeply personal. This is your moment to embrace self-love, confidence, and a little indulgence—because you deserve to feel just as incredible as you truly are.

Boudoir sessions on select dates only in January and February will be given the following special rates.

Included in every package are: fully edited images, high-resolution digital downloads, and complete privacy protection. You’ll be guided through every pose and expression, so no experience or confidence in “sexy posing” is needed.

Boudoir Session Pricing

Two sets/looks – $475
Three sets/looks – $650
Four sets/looks – $825

Every session is designed to be comfortable, empowering, and confidence-boosting. You don’t need to know how to pose—that’s my job.

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Wedding Venue Photography Feature - Seven Springs

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 15:59:26 GMT

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Wedding Venue Photography Feature - Seven Springs

Seven Springs boasts breathtaking views and unparalleled sights that provide a mountain escape perfect for a wedding beyond your boundless dreams in any season – from Spring, Summer, Winter and Fall. Our award-winning venue collection at Seven Springs offers a variety of spaces perfect for New England mountain weddings of all sizes and styles. With its ample amenities such as the Trillium Spa, and numerous seasonal activities, Seven Springs provides a richly-inclusive weekend of unforgettable guest experiences - sure to bring lifelong memories to the newlyweds, as well as their family and friends.

THE ALPINE ROOM

Tucked away in the main lodge, conveniently steps from the hotel, the Alpine Room features large, exposed wood beams that line its ceiling and continue throughout the space. The Alpine Room not only offers an exceptional view of the slopes but provides a private deck just outside of the French doors for your guest to enjoy the natural surroundings for an idyllic-indoor outdoor flow.

WINTERBERRY

The newest and most elegant wedding venue in the Laurel Highlands, Winterberry at Seven Springs Mountain Resort is sure to ‘wow’ both you and your guests. Rustic charm meets refined elegance with natural wood and stone accents and spectacular table settings (accented) with chiavari chairs, all perfectly tied together with a chic marble-stained floor that subtly makes a lasting impression. Muted, earthy tones will perfectly compliment your wedding colors, and the warm atmosphere will make your guests feel right at home as they celebrate your most special day together. Surrounded by pines, the Meadowoods ceremony location provides natural wood benches for guest seating, carved stage nestled among the trees and a stone aisle for the couples’ walk towards their happily ever after.

EXHIBIT HALL

Featuring tall stone columns speckled throughout the perimeter of the room and rich wood accents, Seven Springs’ Exhibit Hall provides expansive space for up to 350 guests- lush with traditional elegance that is sure to compliment any dreamed-up wedding design-scape.

MEADOWOODS CEREMONY

One of the most enchanting venues Seven Springs has to offer, Meadowoods renders a piece of the mountain unlike any other. Surrounded by pines, Meadowoods provides natural wood benches for guest seating, carved stage nestled among the trees and a stone aisle for the bride’s walk towards her happily ever after.

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Christmas 2025

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 18:42:08 GMT

My holiday sets are officially done being built and ready to be photographed! You can now schedule for your holiday sessions in November-December! I suggest calling soon, and getting on the schedule earlier in November so you have ample time for delivery of the photos for your holiday cards to be made!

Check out the blog below for the photos of all of the sets & pricing at the very bottom! I have several studio sets, you'll want to choose the sets you like best and let me know when you schedule!

TO BOOK - SEND A MESSAGE HERE

Set 1

Winter Wonderland

Description: White couch, comfy pillows and fur, and some snowflake accents

Crowns and dresses like you see below available for borrowing, inquire for quantity and sizes.

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Set 2

A Hot Pink Holiday

Description: green velvet couch, pink tree with green bulbs, and outfits to choose from if you like what you see below! Inquire about sizes!

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Set 3

Peppermint Presents

This set is full of present boxes and a red background! A very fun scene that kids can play with, sit on and get into the spirit! this set works great for holiday pajamas or elegant attire! Inquire for the options I have in studio for this set!

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Set 4

Minimalist red, black and green

Description: This background is actually very dark gray, and with a little accent of red and green, it makes for a gorgeous simple set that focuses on the person more than the props.

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Set 5

Photo booth style - mini add on!

This is a quick mini add-on to any other set! You can choose 2 sets and add these fun personality shots on white for photo strip like what you see below as an add-on set if you'd like, or you can choose it for one of your set options. I think this would be a very fun holiday card! :) Works for families or siblings too (imagine a Brady Bunch card?!)

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Set 6

Traditional Holiday Wreath and Settee

Description: This deep red settee is the perfect traditional look for this dark green backdrop and lit up wreath. I have the antlers and reindeer dress available for borrow as well!

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Set 7

Christmas Snow Angel

Our winter wonderland set - just add wings! these are gorgeous feather wings, available for ages young and old! A smaller pair is available for children 4 and under.

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Set 8

New Years Eve

Description: Back again for another year - our NYE set! I love this one. Confetti, disco balls (we have even more now!) and hats! You will have a blast on this adorable set and it makes for a perfect shot on the back of your holiday cards.

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Additional options

City sessions

Greensburg - minis available

Pittsburgh - 90 min sessions suggested to get to all of the spots that are great holiday backdrops!

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In home baking sessions

Back again - we are still offering in home baking sessions! Have extended family join the fun too! Grandma and grandchildren baking together! We can get creative, so many amazing memories to capture here! sessions are 2 hrs.

[AT STUDIO]

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*SPECIAL PRICING HOLIDAY ONLY VALID NOV 1-DEC 10*

$475 + tax

Can split into two payments

Includes session with choice of TWO sets, one outfit (no changes) & copyright license release w/ digital files

A LA CARTE OPTIONS...

Add an outfit change +$25

Add a set (three total) +$100

Add professional ("LinkedIn") headshots for Mom & Dad +$100

Extended family session specials will be offered again this year between Christmas and New Years Eve! To see samples of these sessions - check out the extended family gallery! And check out our extended family blog that also explains the pricing and details more

https://www.skysightphotography.com/blog/2023/12/extended-family-generation-portraits-in-studio

[IN THE CITY]

*SPECIAL PRICING HOLIDAY ONLY VALID NOV 1-DEC 10*

Greensburg:

$475 +tax - 30 mins

Pittsburgh:

$775 + tax - 60 mins

[AT HOME]

MAGICAL AT HOME CHRISTMAS SHOOT - A FULL EXPERIENCE WITH A CATALOG OF PHOTOS YOU'LL CHERISH FOREVER

2 HOURS - MAKING COOKIES, DECORATING TREE, HOLIDAY LIGHTS OUTSIDE, YOUR CHOICE!

$925 +tax - 2 hours

INCLUDES: 2 hrs of photography in your home, all digital files, copyright release (approx 200 photos)

Caisee and Jack's wedding at the Grand Estate at Hidden Acres, Freeport PA

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 17:59:51 GMT

Caisee and Jack’s wedding at the Grand Estate at Hidden Acres was nothing short of magical. As a preferred photographer at this venue, it’s always a joy to return and capture love stories in such a stunning setting. The day began with a heartfelt first look in front of the mansion — a quiet, emotional moment that set the tone for the celebration ahead. We spent time exploring the grounds for portraits, with stops by the peaceful pond, the beautiful woods behind the ceremony site, and the iconic mansion steps, each offering a perfect backdrop for timeless images.

One of the most personal and unique elements of the day was the live band at the reception, featuring none other than Caisee’s father on bass and one of her bridesmaids on drums. Their performance added a heartfelt, intimate touch to the evening that had everyone dancing and smiling. It was a celebration that felt deeply connected to the couple’s story, filled with love, laughter, and music that came straight from the heart.

To close out the night, Caisee and Jack made their grand exit through a sparkling tunnel of friends and family. The glow of the sparklers, the energy of the crowd, and the joy on their faces made for unforgettable memories and some of my favorite nighttime shots to date. It was an incredible day at a venue that continues to be a place of celebration, beauty, and genuine connection.

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Rachel and Kyle's wedding at Mansions on Fifth, Pittsburgh PA

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 16:42:13 GMT

Rachel & Kyle’s Romantic Wedding at Mansions on Fifth, Pittsburgh

When Rachel and Kyle reached out to me a year ago to share the news that they had booked Mansions on Fifth in Pittsburgh for their wedding, I could instantly feel their excitement—and I completely understood why. This venue has such a special place in my heart, and hearing the joy in their voices brought an immediate smile to mine. I was especially thrilled because I had photographed Kyle’s sister’s wedding a few years back—while I was pregnant, no less! Being invited back into their lives for another milestone moment was very special, It’s one of the many reasons I love what I do.

And then, of course, there’s the venue itself—a timeless gem nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh’s historic Shadyside neighborhood.

Built in the early 1900s during the city’s Gilded Age, Mansions on Fifth is the epitome of romantic, old-world charm. Originally the private home of Willis McCook, a prominent Pittsburgh lawyer and industrialist, this mansion-turned-boutique-hotel offers an elegant blend of rich history, ornate architecture, and modern luxury. Its grand staircases, stained glass windows, and warm wood paneling transport you to another era—one filled with candlelit dinners, handwritten love letters, and whispered vows under twinkling chandeliers.

From the moment Rachel slipped into her gown in one of the mansion’s luminous bridal suites, the day unfolded like a fairy tale. The rooms are filled with natural light and vintage details, making them a dream to photograph—and a calming, luxurious place to prepare for one of life’s most unforgettable moments.

Every part of the day was infused with warmth, laughter, and deep connection—from their emotional first look in the mansion's private chapel upstairs to the intimate ceremony and dinner reception throughout all of the rooms the mansions has to offer. The grounds themselves, with quiet elegance, made for a breathtaking backdrop as the sun dipped below the horizon. And of course, no wedding at Mansions on Fifth is complete without capturing a few final portraits beneath its glowing lights outside—each image echoing the timeless beauty of the venue itself.

What I love most about photographing weddings here is that every frame feels like it could belong in a classic romance film. It’s a place where love stories don’t just happen—they’re woven into the very fabric of the space.

I’m so honored to have witnessed Rachel and Kyle’s celebration of love in such an extraordinary place. Their wedding was elegant, heartfelt, and full of personal touches that made it truly their own. Below, I’m excited to share a collection of photographs that tell their story—one filled with love, legacy, and the kind of romance that will stand the test of time.

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Museum Headshot Special - One Day Only

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 19:07:20 GMT

ON LOCATION HEADSHOT MINI SESSION DAY

LOOKING FOR A UNIQUE ARCHITECTURAL HEADSHOT, SOMETHING DIFFERENT THAN THE NORMAL STUDIO LOOK?

THIS IS FOR YOU!

One day only - Sept 16th

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I’m excited to announce a special Headshot Mini Session Day at the Westmoreland Museum of American Art. Sessions will take place in the museum’s stunning glass stairwell, a space filled with natural light and modern architectural details. This unique location offers beautifully blurred backgrounds, artistic elements, and a contemporary setting — the perfect backdrop to capture professional, polished headshots that reflect your best self.

PACKAGE DETAILS:

You can do one outfit per time slot, feel free to purchase additional time slots. Each slot will be approx 25 mins, and you will receive a collection of 20 proofs online to choose from, then 5 of those images of your choice from the proofs will be fully edited and emailed to you as digital file for your usage however you wish (print, online, etc).

Package total: $300

A LA CARTE OPTIONS:

Additional digital images - 5 for $150, 10 for $200, 15 for $250
Additional editing requests* $5-10/image depending on requests
*Editing includes: teeth whitening, body slimming, facial blemish/wrinkle retouching, smoothing of skin, lighten bags of eyes or redness around pupils

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Travel packing tips for international, airplane or long road trip

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 01:39:31 GMT

I love to travel. And when the majority of your luggage contains camera gear, batteries, chargers, and more... You learn to get creative with your remaining baggage. All in all, I've developed a few tips for your travel bags, especially if you're going international.

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No matter where you are going in the world, if it is less than a month, my opinion is that you can go there with carry on only. It just takes some letting go of items you think you need, that you don't, and some amazing bags. Regardless if you want to check a bag or not, this blog will certainly offer some tips.

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COMPRESSION BAGS TO SAVE SPACE

I like to pack with a stuff-sack, or a few manual vacuum seal or compression bags. Be sure they are manual seal (you roll and press to eliminate air, and don't need an actual vaccuum so you can re-pack for the way back home). Both of these can compress an amazing amount of clothing. In a trip I took to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen where it was quite cold, we were able to put into one medium stuff sack: two pairs of winter “snow/ski” pants, three base layer long sleeve shirts, two pairs of base layer pants and a winter jacket. In a compression sack, we put our winter ski coats. And there was still about half of the suitcase of space left, and this was an airline regulation carry-on size suitcase (22x9x12”). Both stuff sacks and compression bags can be found in places like REI, or anywhere selling travel gear (online of course as well). Side note, if packing sunglasses remember a sunglasses case so they don't get broken. I also suggest not packing any expensive jewelry. I accidentally left my makeup/jewelry bag behind in security once in Paris, when they emptied and searched my bag. (Fun fact, a friend traveling through Paris a month later was able to retrieve it for me in lost and found!) I had a few pieces of special jewelry in there, so ever since I will only travel with cheap items I don't mind if lost or broken.

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BACKPACK

Purchase a good backpack that will be your daily bag to go out & about on your trip. This can be your personal item on the airplane, but once you arrive you can unpack and use it for daily hikes and walks around town in lieu of a purse. It is amazing how much can fit into a bookbag, which is your second bag/carry on. We purchased one that has a lot of external pockets and straps so we were able to attach a pair of tennis shoes and a tripod onto the outside of the bag, so these bulky items do not need to take up room in your suitcase. Which brings me to my next point. Brands I have experience putting through all sorts of terrain and weather and also very comfortable - North Face and Kelty

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SHOES

Don't get carried away. You need 1-2 pairs of shoes, max. If you are going to one climate, a single pair of shoes will get you there fine. If you are going to be hiking then you need your second pair (ie: hiking sandals like keens or boots). However if it is a warm climate, wear a pair of sandals on the plane and don't worry about any other pairs. Even if you think you might hit the gym while there and want those running shoes, chances are that space in your bag is better suited for extra underwear. Long story short... try to wear your single pair of shoes on the plane, and if you need a second pair, make sure they pack flat like the new “barefoot running shoes” that are out – they are extremely thin and light. If you are packing boots - wear those on the plane, pack the smaller pair.

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CLOTHING

Keep it simple. Keep it simple. Layers that can be mixed and matched are ideal. Do not pack outfits, chances are you wont want to wear that exact outfit on the day you are there anyway. For two weeks in a climate of approx 50-60 degrees I would suggest (for a female): 4 tshirts, 5 tank tops, pair of jeans, a long skirt (this is versatile for a warmer day), 2 blouse type shirts you could wear to a restaurant, a light fashionable scarf (this can really dress up a tshirt and jeans), a fleece or jacket (wear on the plane to save space since this is a thicker item) and some cheap jewelry (again to dress up a basic outfit) that you don't mind if gets lost or broken. Honestly no one there knows you or will know you are wearing the same jeans over and over. If possible, do laundry. Always travel with a bit of clothing soap to do laundry in the tub if you need to (just hang on the shower rod or on a hotel balcony to dry). When you're at home and you see all the options in your closet that you'd like to take – resist the urge. Once you're there you will be so happy that you have less to choose from and less to carry around.

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FOLD UP TOTE - A SIMPLE BUT NECESSARY ITEM!

A fold-up tote bag. I got one free at a trade show once, which was the best piece of swag ever. It folds up to the size of about my hand, so I carry it on my outside backpack pocket, easy to grab as needed. Once I get onto the gangway to enter the airplane, I pop it open and take out my items to have in my seat with me on the plane – like phone, mp3 player, kindle, boarding pass, book, bottle of water, snack, ipad, neck pillow. All other items stay safely in my padded “expensive” backpack and will go under the seat in front of me on the plane or the overhead bin and hopefully wont need to dig into it the whole flight. I prefer the overhead bin if there is not a full flight, and there is room for both my backpack and suitcase up top so my feet have stretching space. Remember I'm doing all carry-on, so my suitcase is in the overhead bin. (thus those are my two allowed carry-ons). The tote bag isn't really counted as a third carry-on bag if you are unpacking items from your bag into that for just during the flight. I also love it for items acquired along the way, like a bottle of water, a muffin, a magazine purchased at the newsstand. As you discard these items your tote will empty itself and eventually you can fold it back up and it disappears. Also very handy to have for shopping in markets, especially for European travel, where they are not giving you a plastic bag with every fruit or souvenir purchase. So my fold-up tote becomes a very, very valuable item the entire trip.

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BAGS FOR AIRPORT TRAVEL

I like to wear a really flat, small purse on my body – one that crosses over me with a long strap. The one I have has several pockets. I keep my wallet, money, plane information, boarding pass, and passport in it. This way it never leaves my body during transit. Important items like this you can't pick up along the way like losing a tube of toothpaste. This same concept could be applied to a waist belt (fanny pack) or pockets in your jacket. Just be careful if you take that jacket off, don't forget it at the gate waiting area! In short, I like these important items ON my body in some way. Make sure this small bag can fit into one of your carry on items, as some airlines will ask you to combine all bags together when entering the corridor to the plane and giving your boarding pass. Once you pass there, you can take it back out. (they like to see that you do in fact have only one personal item)

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PACK SNACKS!

Airport food is crazy expensive. Pack snacks like trail mix and granola bars before leaving your house. You can't bring liquid drinks through security but bring all the snacks you want. (don't bring fruits or veggies if going international) When you're on a plane and hungry, it will help you avoid a $10 candy bar purchase. Packs of EmergenC are nice to have (flavors water & has vitamins) - they are great for adding to plain water along your trip when you're considering a more expensive drink purchase.

No one wants to pay for expensive bottles of water at the airport, so don't forget to bring your own reusable water bottle. You will empty it before you go through security, however some airports have water filling stations or water fountains where you can fill the bottle with free filtered water!

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SECURITY

Liquids in security... I'm sure most of us are aware now... They must be in small ziplocks and nothing over 3.4 oz, this even includes gel deodorant. Its best anyway, you don't want the extra weight or size of large bottles in your bag. Check the country you will be flying into if international, to see if different rules to follow on this when you arrive and come back. For example, the last time I flew through London, all bottles had to fit into ONE plastic bag which they provided. What didn't fit was thrown away.

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AIRPLANE LIST

Travel items to pick up for the airplane... A few LiquidIV packs *or similar brand* - these are powder electrolyte packs, very small to carry and can add to your water. This helps tremendously on travel days and on flights with dry air for hydration. Moisturizer to use on your face, and one for hands as well. The airplane air is very dry, you'll want to reapply on long flights. A travel neck pillow – I like the blow up ones (again, found mine at REI) because off the plane I can deflate it and it disappears into my bag. Or, the new neck pillows that snap in the front making a full complete circle, a donut around your neck, so you can let your head lean side or forward and it is supported. I also like to have an eye mask, if you need to sleep during your flight. I also like to double this use for the hotel, especially if I am changing several time zones and need to sleep midday when I arrive in my hotel room. Very useful when you aren't sure how dark your room will be. Don't forget hand sanitizer, use it often throughout the airport and on plane. I like the ones that have a rubber hanging strap, and keep it on the outside of my personal bag. Accessible is key. Also suggest packing sanitizing wipes for the tray table and the seat, buckle, and to take with you to the plane bathroom. Small notebook and pen is always nice to have, thoughts come flooding to me when I'm on a plane - ideas, things I want to do, etc. It also is nice to have something to doodle if you've run out of entertainment and tired of podcasts. A mask is smart to have as well, if you are traveling especially during flu season. I have never used one, but a foot hammock like this one is recommended for people with short legs. Read the Amazon reviews to see what people are saying, maybe it will work for you! And lastly, I like to get a "freshened up" feeling while flying. So I like to have baby wipes to wash my face, and have a fresh pair of socks with me on the plane, sometimes it feels really good to change them mid-flight when going far distances. (want to feel extra fresh? pack a fresh pair of underwear in your personal bag too!)

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TRAVEL JOURNAL

I love to journal along the way. A diary of sorts, but for more than just documenting what I've done on the trip. I do that, sure. But I actually like it for a reference tool while traveling. I highly suggest getting a few Moleskin journals – they are very small and extremely thin. The ones I picked up are the exact size and thickness of my passport so I keep them together. I'll have a few of them, in different colors. I take one for tracking my budget and travel info, and one for a travel journal. For the budget/travel info-- I write into it before I leave home – every flight #, time, airline, and confirmation number. This way its all there much faster than fumbling for my itinerary I printed from booking online or your airplane app. (you will still want these but you can keep them in your larger bag, among the rest of your items). I also write down all conversion rates, if traveling international. I usually write $1=x, $5=x, $10=x, this way I can quickly reference it while shopping abroad and know what I"m actually spending. Some currencies can be very confusing, like 5000 for an apple?! Wait.. that only equates to $1.00. I also track my budget along the way, its easy to get carried away with spending when you're on vacation cloud nine. Tracking it keeps me in check. And finally, I use the other moleskin for a personal journal of my travel - things I've done, seen, tasted, and want to remember. I think adding a list of things you want to see on the trip is good to add to your journal before you leave as well - its easy to forget when you arrive there, all the amazing things you wanted to experience there.

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MEDS

Meds... Obviously don't forget your daily meds or vitamins. Then in addition to that - remember you may come down with a basic cold or symptoms you want immediate relief for. You don't need to go overboard, but a few tablets of the following are good – dramamine, tylenol or advil, anti-diarrhea, tums, children's tylenol, aspirin, and ginger candy (it instantly can soothe an upset stomach). Take everything out of the bottles and into tiny snack size ziplocks – label them! This will take less space than the bottles of course. Remember its all about space! Remember to include EmergenC or Airborne, and take it daily! In fact, you should be taking it at least four days prior to even leaving home.

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EAR CARE FOR PLANE TRAVEL

Don't like ear popping and uncomfortable pressure in your ears? EarPlanes are a really cool inexpensive product that help with ear pain, pressure changes, and discomfort from flying. You can download the app (works offline) which measures the pressure in the airplane, telling you when you put them in and take them out.

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PRINTED PAPERWORK

Travel paperwork – be sure to have copies of all your itineraries from booking online or with airlines (car rentals, hotels, travel agent info, tour company, and flights). I also will print and carry with me a map of where I am going, hotel phone number and address, and things like cab #'s, etc. Think about this – if you have no access to your iPhone when you arrive there – what might you need? Don't rely on the modern way of thinking such as - “I'll google it when I get there.” When you arrive, your iPhone could be a dead battery or you could have no access or wifi. It happens, so be prepared. Put yourself back to pre-2000's era. A printed list of a few translations would be helpful too, if traveling international. You should know how to ask for directions, hail a cab, ask for a telephone, etc - in the language of the country you're visiting.

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POWER ADAPTERS (INTERNATIONAL)

International travelers... remember adapters for your electronics, more than one is best. There will be times when you need to plug in multiple items...you'll want to charge your laptop, phone, camera battery, and use your electric shaver at the same time. Keep in mind that many Euro hotels have a system for saving energy and when you leave your room, your electric will turn off unless you keep your room key in the key slot by the door – so if you need to charge items while out of the room, you'll want to have a second room key in that slot to keep your electric on. *learned this the hard way :)

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ELECTRONIC CHECK LIST

If you plan to transfer your photos as you travel to backup - you'll want your laptop, laptop cord, a backup hard drive or flash drive for photos, and memory card reader. For just general photography the list is simply - memory cards, camera, battery for camera, AA batteries if needed, charger for camera battery, lenses, lens caps. For more tech suggestions, see the bottom of this blog.

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PASSPORT SAFETY

As a safety precaution – because although it hasn't happened to me, its happened to a friend, take a paper copy of your passport in case of theft. I take two copies - one I keep hidden inside the liner of my suitcase and one buried in my backpack. That way if a piece of luggage is lost or stolen with the passport, I have a copy in the other. If you need it in an unfortunate situation – the process for getting your passport replaced and returning home on time will be somewhat easier. You also could just carry a photo of it on your phone, but I always like a paper copy in case your purse (including your phone and passport) are stolen together. Chances are your large suitcase isn't the item stolen, which is why I keep it there. You should also photocopy the front and back of all credit cards you are taking with you but you could leave them at home with a family member or friend, if needed you can call them for the information.

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PASSPORT

Going international? Remember to be sure your passport is valid for 6 months after your travel dates! Travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their planned departure date from a foreign country to avoid unexpected travel disruptions. This rule is implemented to ensure that travelers will not face issues with passport expiration while abroad. The rule varies by country, but it generally applies worldwide. Notable exceptions exist for the Schengen Area, where some countries only require the passport to be valid for the duration of the stay. Travelers should verify specific entry requirements for each destination to avoid disruptions.

JET LAG

Flying to a time zone more than 3 hours change in either direction? Start prepping your body 48 hours before flying. Rick Steves' genius tip I picked up on and agree wholeheartedly! For example, when I am traveling to Europe I will be doing a red-eye (overnight) flight leaving the east coast around 6-8pm, arriving my destination at 9-10am. The flight is around 8-9 hrs and a 6 hr time change. This means, if I am lucky enough to get decent sleep on the plane, it won't be more than a few hours at best. I can't sleep in uncomfortable positions very well, and my normal bedtime is around midnight so the first 6 hrs of a 9 hr flight, I won't really be that tired. So on my first day of the trip, I really don't like to be falling asleep at 4pm. So if possible, begin training your body for sleep at home a few days before you leave. Take into account if going east to Europe, therefore moving forward in time, or if you are going west such as a trip to Hawaii and gaining time in the day as you travel. Either way, its a difficult transition to your body and no way to fully prepare to avoid it - but a little preparation can help. Here are some tips to help.

1. Shift Your Schedule Ahead of Time (If You Can)

Start adjusting your sleep schedule 3–5 days before the trip:

Heading East (e.g., US → Europe): Go to bed and wake up earlier each day.
Heading West (e.g., Europe → US): Go to bed and wake up later each day.
Even a 1–2 hour shift helps.

2. Choose the Right Flight Timing

A true red-eye that lets you land in the morning local time is ideal if you can sleep on the plane.
Avoid connections that leave you stranded in a weird half-sleep schedule.

3. Optimize Sleep on the Plane

Make it as easy as possible to sleep:

Neck pillow, sleep mask, earplugs or noise-canceling headphones
Dress comfortably—layers are best.
Consider using a sleep aid (melatonin 1–3mg is mild and works for many)

4. Use Light to Your Advantage

Light controls your body clock. Use it smartly:

After landing:
- If traveling east, get morning sun to shift your clock earlier.
- If traveling west, get afternoon/evening sun to shift your clock later.
Use blue light blocking glasses at the wrong time to avoid staying "stuck" on your old time.

5. Eat on Destination Time

Start eating as if you're already in the destination time zone on the plane.
Avoid snacks/meals at weird hours—even if the airline offers food at 2am.

6. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration worsens jet lag.
Bring your own water bottle and sip consistently.
Avoid caffeine late in the flight (it can disrupt your arrival sleep).

7. Move Around After Arrival

Do light exercise (walk or stretch) soon after you land.
It helps reset your internal clock and boosts circulation.

8. Don’t Nap More Than 20–30 Minutes

If you're exhausted upon arrival, a short power nap is okay, but:

Set a timer.
Nap before 2pm local time or you’ll mess up your night sleep.

Quick Example:

Flying from LAX to London (8-hour jump, overnight flight)

Start going to bed 30–60 min earlier a few days before.
On the plane: sleep as much as possible.
Land at 10am local time: get outside in the daylight immediately.
No naps longer than 20 minutes.
Stay up until at least 9–10pm local time.

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CREDIT CARDS

Notify your credit card provider before traveling out of state anywhere and your phone service provider (if going international) of your travel, location, and dates! Your international phone service may need to be activated, inquire about pricing per day or week.

Also - This service was highly recommended to me by another international traveler for going to Europe -

eSIM Europe | Best eSIM with Unlimited Data Plans
They will provide instructions on the phone settings necessary to use this for data in lieu of your carrier.

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EXERCISES DURING TRAVEL

I find that neck and TMJ tightness is really common when traveling, so I highly recommend this video by Adam Fields. He has a followup to this video as well (version 2), as well as eye strain videos, headache relief, etc. His videos are very helpful after a long flight.

Speaking of body pains - compression sleeves for a knee, shoulder, or plantar fasciitis are helpful. I also think gel insoles for shoes can be helpful, as well as anything that aids a common problem you think could pop up on your body, such as blisters if you are prone to those after hiking.

If you are road tripping, don't forget your pillow from home. But if you are flying and can't pack your pillow, but prefer a more ergonomic style to sleep on, you can roll up a hotel towel to put under your neck. There are some articles like this one about making a DIY cervical roll.

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CLEAR YOUR PHONE & DOWNLOAD GPS TRACKING APPS

Clear phone space & backup before leaving. Make sure your phone has ample space - at least 4 gb of space free so you can take a lot of photos and videos. Also, backup your phone before you leave so in case you have the unfortunate circumstance of losing your phone, you can come home and install your backup on a new phone to be back up and running, and you didn't lose precious memories or information. I also use my phone editor app to add my husband's cell number to the photo I have on my lock screen as my emergency contact. I was once in an airport and found someone's found - I had no idea who to get it back to. But if she had "Emergency contact {name} {number}" in text over that photo of her and her kids on the lock screen, I could have called or texted her husband to find her. If you are comfortable with location services on, a lot of people like to use apps like "Find my iPhone" to track their phone if it is lost. This also doubles as a gps on your body, if your family wants to track where you are at. I also know women who have GPS jewelry, which is discreet and they feel safer when traveling with it on.

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DOWNLOAD MEDIA

Download media for the plane that you can use in airplane mode. Movies, podcasts, and music that is actually loaded to your phone and not needing to be accessed through a streaming service.

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BATTERY LIFE

Finally, here are some tech solutions for backing up photos and extra battery life on the go! The section below is with a little help from ChatGPT, these are not products I have used but are highly recommended online.

Technology Suggestions

Photo Backup

Backing up photos along the way is a good idea if you plan to take a lot of photos or be gone for a long time. Here are some options to consider:

No Backup Option

You can choose not to back up anything and just shoot on your memory cards. As each card fills up:

Take it out and keep it in a safe place
Insert a new memory card
Be sure to bring extra memory cards so you have more than enough storage.

For Those Only Using Their Phone for Photos:

Utilize your cloud upload feature.
Important: Do this only in Wi-Fi zones and avoid uploading while using mobile data during your day travels.

For Those Using a Camera with Memory Card:

If you bring a laptop, remember to bring your memory card reader to transfer your photos from the card.

Other Options:

There are several products online that backup your photos to a separate device. Although I can’t personally vouch for these, they have high ratings. I suggest doing your own research on these options before deciding. Featured products are as follows.

Featured Devices

ThePhotoStick® Omni

A compact, USB-like device that connects directly to phones and tablets (iOS, Android, Mac, Windows) and auto-scans and backs up your media—no internet or manual sorting required.
Highly praised for ease of use and support for a wide range of devices.

Picture Keeper Connect

A high-capacity backup solution (up to 512 GB) designed for both mobile devices and computers.
Known for its simple three-step backup process, duplicate skipping, and broad compatibility.

Other Top-Rated Options (from reviews)

Omega DataCube

Plugs into your charger and backs up photos while charging.
Uses hot-swappable microSD cards for flexible, expandable storage.
Works across iOS, Android, and Windows without monthly fees.
Source: Zoopy Consumer's Guide Review ThePhotoStick.

RAVPower FileHub (e.g., RP-WD03)

A portable Wi‑Fi hub with SD and USB ports.
Ideal for backing up from cameras or phones wirelessly.
Not a standalone drive, but allows backup to your own external storage devices without a computer.
Source: Digital Photography School.

Western Digital My Passport Wireless Pro

Portable hard drive that doubles as a Wi‑Fi hotspot and SD card reader.
Offers local wireless access and automatic backup.
Useful for field photographers who want to view or transfer files via tablet or phone.

Additional Battery Power

I suggest a power bank for your phone to give you some extra battery on the go. Here are the best solutions for iPhone first, then Samsung or non-iPhone options. Keep in mind it should be airline safe.

For iPhone Users Traveling Internationally

The best power bank should be:

✅ Compact
✅ Airline-safe (under 27,000mAh / 100Wh)
✅ Fast-charging (USB-C PD)
✅ Compatible with MagSafe or Lightning
✅ Reliable & globally available

Top-rated Options:

🔋 1. Anker MagGo Power Bank (10,000mAh, Slim)

Why it's great: Slim, MagSafe-compatible wireless charging + 30W USB-C fast charging.
Ideal for: iPhone 12 and newer (MagSafe-enabled), casual travel.
Extras: Can charge your iPhone wirelessly while on the move — no cables needed.
Airline safe: ✅
Price: ~$80
🔗 Anker MagGo Power Bank

🔌 2. Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3 (10,000mAh)

Why it's great: Ultra-lightweight and rugged with USB-C PD for fast iPhone charging.
Ideal for: Backpackers, hikers, and travelers who pack light.
Features: IPX5 water resistance, carbon fiber shell, trickle mode for AirPods/Apple Watch.
Airline safe: ✅
Price: ~$65
🔗 Available via Nitecore Store and other retailers

⚡ 3. UGREEN 145W Power Bank (25,000mAh)

Why it's great: Massive capacity and supports USB-C PD fast charging for iPhone and other devices.
Ideal for: Power users and long trips with multiple devices (iPad, iPhone, etc.)
Note: A bit heavier, but worth it for all-day power.
Airline safe: ✅ (under 100Wh)
Price: ~$120
🔗 Available on Amazon or UGREEN's website

Travel Tips for Power Banks

Air travel limits: Most airlines allow carry-on power banks up to 27,000mAh (100Wh).
Bring a universal adapter: Especially if your charger/power bank needs to be recharged abroad.
USB-C PD: Look for "Power Delivery" to ensure your iPhone charges quickly (20W or higher).

Best Power Banks for Samsung & Android – Travel Approved

These power banks are:

✅ Airline-safe (under 27,000mAh / 100Wh)
✅ Travel-friendly (portable and durable)
✅ Fast-charging with PPS support (for Samsung Super Fast Charging)
✅ USB-C PD compatible

⚡ 1. Anker 737 Power Bank (PowerCore 24K)

Capacity: 24,000mAh (✅ airline safe)
Output: Up to 140W USB-C PD, supports PPS
Why it's great: Fast-charges Samsung phones and can power tablets or laptops. Digital display shows battery and power stats.
Weight: ~630g (a bit heavy, but compact)
Best for: Frequent travelers with multiple devices
Price: ~$150
🔗 View on Anker

⚡ 2. UGREEN 145W 25,000mAh Power Bank

Capacity: 25,000mAh (✅ airline safe)
Output: 145W total, supports PPS & USB-C PD
Why it's great: Excellent for Samsung Super Fast Charging and laptops. Slim profile with LED display.
Weight: ~500g
Best for: Long-haul travelers with phones, tablets, cameras
Price: ~$120
🔗 Available on UGREEN.com or Amazon

⚡ 3. Baseus Blade 100W 20,000mAh

Capacity: 20,000mAh (✅ airline safe)
Output: 100W USB-C PD, PPS supported
Why it's great: Flat, ultra-slim design (like a tablet); fits easily in travel bags.
Weight: ~490g
Best for: Light travelers, digital nomads, minimalists
Price: ~$70
🔗 Available on Amazon

⚡ 4. Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3 (Ultra-Light Travel Pick)

Capacity: 10,000mAh (✅ airline safe)
Output: 20W USB-C PD, trickle charge for small devices
Why it's great: Rugged, water-resistant, and featherlight (just 150g). Not the fastest, but very portable.
Best for: Hikers, backpackers, minimalist travelers
Price: ~$65
🔗 View on Nitecore Store

* THE END *

Simply put: Lighten your load and your travel will be so much easier... thus making you a happy camper. Or hotel hopper. Whichever you prefer. Here are a few photos from my treks around the world.

Enjoy some of my travel photos below!

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Photography tips

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:06:21 GMT

Introduction: Photography Composition Basics from a Pro's Perspective

Whether you're just picking up your first camera or looking to sharpen your skills, every great photographer starts with the same foundation: the basics. In this post, I’m sharing practical, no-fluff photography composition tips I’ve learned through years of professional shooting—tips that will help you take more intentional, eye-catching photos right away. This guide is for ANYONE - shooting photography on anything from a phone to a professional camera. No lighting tips here, just composition so if you like to just point and shoot, this blog is for you!

These are the core principles I use on every shoot—whether I’m capturing portraits, landscapes, or candid everyday moments. No technical jargon, just real advice that works.

Let’s dive in.

1. Rule of thirds

The rule of thirds is a basic principle of composition in visual arts like photography, filmmaking, and design. It helps create balanced, visually appealing images by guiding where to place the main elements in a scene.

Here's how it works:

Divide the frame into thirds — both horizontally and vertically — creating a 3x3 grid with 9 equal parts.
The grid has:
- Two horizontal lines
- Two vertical lines
- Four intersection points (where those lines cross)

The idea:

Place key elements along the lines or at the intersection points. This is the "sweet spots", there are FOUR of them.
This typically results in a more natural, dynamic composition than simply centering the subject.

Example:

In photography, placing a person’s eyes at the top horizontal line often looks better than centering their face vertically.
In landscapes, placing the horizon along the top or bottom third (not the center) can make the photo feel more balanced.

Why it works:

It draws the viewer’s eye naturally into the image.
It creates tension and interest while maintaining harmony.

When to break it:

Once you understand the rule, it’s totally fine to break it—especially for symmetry, drama, or abstract art. But knowing it gives you a solid starting point.

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2. Horizons

The rule of top or bottom horizon in photography is a simple but powerful composition technique that helps you decide where to place the horizon line in your photo for maximum visual impact.

📏 The Basic Idea:

Don't center the horizon (unless for symmetry).
Instead, place it along the top third or bottom third of the frame, following the rule of thirds.

🧭 When to Place the Horizon at the Bottom Third:

Use this when the sky is more interesting than the ground.

✔️ Great for:

Dramatic clouds or sunsets
Astrophotography
Wide, open skies
Showing scale or atmosphere

📸 Emphasizes: air, light, mood, space

🌍 When to Place the Horizon at the Top Third:

Use this when the foreground or land is more interesting than the sky.

✔️ Great for:

Mountains, fields, cityscapes
Leading lines or patterns on the ground
Reflections in water

📸 Emphasizes: texture, detail, story in the foreground

🚫 Why You Usually Avoid Centering the Horizon:

A centered horizon can split the image awkwardly in half, making it feel static or indecisive.
Unless you’re going for symmetry (like reflections or minimalism), off-centering usually creates a more dynamic composition.

🧠 Pro Tips:

Use a grid overlay on your camera to help align your horizon.
Keep the horizon straight unless you're intentionally tilting it (like for a creative effect).
Decide what’s more important — the land or the sky — and let that take up more space.

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3. Patterns, textures and repeating lines

Patterns, textures, and repeating lines are powerful elements in photography because they naturally draw the viewer’s eye, create visual interest, and add structure to an image. Here’s why they’re so effective:

🔁 1. Patterns Attract Attention

Our brains are wired to notice order in chaos.
Repeating shapes, colors, or elements create rhythm and harmony, which feels satisfying to look at.
Examples: tiles, windows, rows of trees, architectural details.

📸 Pro tip: Patterns are especially striking when they fill the frame or get interrupted—like one red umbrella in a sea of black ones.

🧵 2. Textures Add Depth

Texture gives a tactile quality to images—making the viewer almost “feel” the surface.
Great for close-ups or macro shots: wood grain, peeling paint, rust, fabric, skin, etc.
Texture adds realism and emotional weight, especially in black and white photography.

➖ 3. Repeating Lines Guide the Eye

Lines (especially repeating ones) act like visual arrows, leading the viewer’s gaze through the frame.
They can create a sense of direction, symmetry, or movement.
Examples: roads, fences, railings, architecture, shadows.

📸 Bonus: Converging lines (like train tracks) can create depth and a strong sense of perspective.

Why they matter compositionally:

These elements enhance composition by giving structure, balance, and focus.
They work well with other principles like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and contrast.

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4. Leading lines

What Are Leading Lines?

They can be:

Actual lines: roads, fences, rivers, hallways, bridges.
Implied lines: a row of trees, shadows, footprints, a line of people.

These lines often:

Start from the bottom or edges of the frame.
Lead into the photo, not out of it.
Help create a sense of depth, movement, or focus.

🧠 Why Are They Effective?

Our eyes naturally follow lines, so they give the viewer a clear path to follow.
They direct attention to the subject without saying a word.
They add structure and balance to the composition.
Can create a strong sense of perspective or drama.

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5. Complementary Colors

Using complementary colors in photography makes your images more visually striking, balanced, and emotionally engaging. Here’s why it works and what makes it powerful:

🎨 What Are Complementary Colors?

Complementary colors are pairs of colors that sit opposite each other on the color wheel, like:

Color 1	Complement
Blue	Orange
Red	Green
Yellow	Purple

When used together, they create strong contrast and intensify each other.

📷 Why Use Complementary Colors in Photography?

1. They Create Visual Pop

Complementary colors enhance each other—they make the photo "pop" by creating high contrast.
Example: a person in an orange jacket standing in front of a blue wall grabs your attention instantly.

2. They Create Balance

Opposing colors balance each other out, making the image feel harmonious, even when it’s bold.

3. They Direct the Viewer’s Eye

You can use complementary contrast to highlight the subject, especially if the background is the opposite color.
Helps isolate and emphasize the main point of interest.

4. They Evoke Mood and Emotion

Each color carries its own emotional tone. When paired right, complementary colors can evoke tension, excitement, or harmony.
- Blue and orange: cool vs. warm (often used in movie color grading).
- Red and green: energetic vs. calming (common in holiday or nature themes).

📌 When to Use Complementary Colors:

Portraits: Clothing vs. background contrast.
Street photography: Bright city colors that naturally clash or complement.
Landscape: Think blue sky against orange sand or golden sunset.

🎯 Tips for Using Complementary Colors Well:

Don’t overdo it — let one color dominate, and the other support.
Use color grading or editing subtly if the original colors don’t align perfectly.
Pay attention to light — it can shift colors and affect harmony.

🖼 What Makes a "Good" Photo with Complementary Colors?

A good photo isn’t just colorful — it uses color to:

Enhance composition
Create emotional impact
Guide the eye
Tell a story

Complementary colors are just one powerful tool in your creative toolbox.

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6. Monochromatic style

Creating great monochromatic photos is all about using one color (or hue) and its various shades, tints, and tones to craft a visually cohesive, emotionally strong image. Monochromatic doesn’t mean boring—it means focused, minimal, and often dramatic.

🎨 What Is a Monochromatic Photo?

A monochromatic image uses only one base color (like blue, red, or green), along with:

Shades (color + black)
Tints (color + white)
Tones (color + gray)

This includes black & white images, but it also applies to color photos that stick to a single hue family.

📸 Why It Works:

Simplifies the image → draws more attention to texture, shape, light, and emotion.
Reduces distractions → puts the focus on mood and subject.
Can be bold and modern, or soft and nostalgic, depending on the color.

✅ How to Make Strong Monochromatic Photos:

1. Choose a Dominant Color

Pick one that fits your mood or subject:
- Blue → calm, cool, moody
- Red → intense, bold, emotional
- Green → natural, peaceful
- Sepia or warm tones → nostalgic, vintage

2. Control Your Lighting

Good lighting is key. In monochrome, light becomes the main storytelling tool.
Use shadows and highlights to add drama or depth.

3. Emphasize Texture and Form

Without color variety, viewers pay more attention to:
- Lines, patterns
- Textures (fabric, skin, surfaces)
- Shapes and contrast

4. Simplify the Scene

A clean background and minimal distractions help keep the color and subject strong.

5. Edit for Consistency

In post-processing, fine-tune the color temperature, tint, and contrast to reinforce the monochromatic feel.
Convert to black & white or tone the image with a specific hue (like blue or sepia).

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7. Capture life in the scene

Add a Pulse to the Landscape" Rule

A great landscape becomes unforgettable when you capture a sign of life—like a person, animal, or moving vehicle—within it.

💡 Why it works:

Adds scale — A human or animal gives context to the size of the scene.
Creates a story — It shifts the image from just scenery to something relatable and alive.
Draws focus — Our eyes naturally go to living or moving elements.
Breaks stillness — A moving car, walking person, or flying bird introduces motion and energy to a calm landscape.

✅ Tips:

Place the subject strategically using the rule of thirds or leading lines.
Let the environment stay dominant, but let life spark the story.
Use a fast shutter to freeze action or a slow one to create motion blur (like a moving car’s lights).

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8. A few basic rules for photographing people

Basic People Photography Rules (Quick List)
Focus on the Eyes
- Sharp eyes = strong connection.
Watch the Background
- Keep it clean and distraction-free.
Use the Rule of Thirds
- Place eyes or subject off-center for balance.
Use Natural Light
- Soft light (like window or golden hour) is most flattering.
Pose Naturally
- Relaxed, angled poses look better than stiff ones.
Capture Real Emotion
- Engage your subject for genuine expressions.
Frame Within a Frame
- Use doors, windows, or objects to draw attention to your subject.
Avoid Awkward Crops
- Don’t crop at joints like elbows, knees, or wrists.
Tell a Story
- Include elements that reveal something about the person.
Edit Lightly
- Keep skin tones natural and retouch gently.

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Photography is a journey of seeing the world differently, and with these tips, you’re one step closer to capturing it with confidence and creativity. Keep practicing, stay curious, and let your camera tell the stories only you can see.

Kristen and Rege say I DO at Seven Springs' Meadowoods and Winterberry

(SkySight Photography) — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 00:32:01 GMT

Kristen and Rege celebrated a truly unforgettable wedding day at the beautiful Seven Springs venue on June 7, 2025. From start to finish, their day was filled with intention, love, and personal touches that reflected who they are as a couple. Every detail was carefully planned and executed — they even went the extra mile to do everything themselves, including creating all of their stunning floral arrangements by hand!

I was genuinely blown away by the incredible décor they designed. It was not only visually breathtaking but also carried a warm and personal touch that made the entire day feel incredibly intimate. The atmosphere was relaxed, heartfelt, and full of genuine emotion. You could feel the love radiating through every interaction, from the couple themselves to the friends and family who gathered to celebrate with them.

Kristen and Rege were absolutely glowing all day long — smiling ear to ear, soaking in every beautiful moment. It was such a joy and an honor to be their photographer and to witness such a meaningful and love-filled celebration.

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Rhowyn & Alex: A Wedding to Remember at the Mansions on Fifth, Pittsburgh PA

(SkySight Photography) — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 17:55:54 GMT

Rhowyn & Alex: A Wedding to Remember at the Mansions on Fifth

Rhowyn and Alex tied the knot in late May in what can only be described as a dreamlike, intimate ceremony at the historic Mansions on Fifth. Nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh, the venue's old-world charm set the perfect stage for a day full of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

From the moment guests began to arrive, there was an undeniable sense of warmth and excitement in the air. Friends and family gathered close, all beaming with joy and anticipation. You could feel the love radiating—not just from Rhowyn and Alex, but from every person in the room. It was as if their deep bond had wrapped everyone in a collective embrace.

The ceremony itself was heartfelt and sincere, filled with personal touches that spoke volumes about the couple’s journey together. Happy tears flowed freely (including a few from the photographer!), and laughter bubbled up as stories were shared and vows exchanged. It was a celebration of not just a relationship, but a partnership full of kindness, respect, and pure joy.

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, the celebration seamlessly transitioned into an evening of revelry. The reception was electric! From the heartfelt toasts to the first dance that had everyone cheering, the energy never once dipped. Soon, the dance floor turned into a whirlwind of movement—old friends showing off nostalgic moves and singing along to favorite showtunes.

The joy was contagious, and the laughter was endless. Every guest, young and old, seemed swept up in the magic of the night. It wasn’t just a wedding—it was a celebration of community, of shared history, and of a future filled with love.

It’s safe to say that no one will forget May 2025 anytime soon. The love that Rhowyn and Alex share left an imprint not only on each other, but on everyone lucky enough to witness their day. Their wedding was more than just a beautiful ceremony; it was a reminder of what makes love so powerful—connection, joy, and a whole lot of dancing.

PS: Check out our re-creation of her grandmother's bouquet toss photo! :)

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Evie and Robin at The Grand Hall at the Priory – A downtown Pittsburgh springtime wedding

(SkySight Photography) — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 17:02:16 GMT

Evie and Robin's Wedding at The Priory – A Perfect Day to Remember

Evie and Robin’s wedding day at The Priory was nothing short of magical. With clear skies, warm sunshine, and not a hint of humidity or rain, the weather was exactly what every couple dreams of for their big day—absolutely perfect. It felt as though nature itself was celebrating with them, providing a beautiful backdrop for an unforgettable celebration.

Surrounded by family and friends who were simply glowing with happiness, the joy in the air was unmistakable. Laughter, hugs, and happy tears filled every corner of the venue. And as for the couple themselves—Evie and Robin were the picture of pure bliss. From the moment they saw each other, to the last dance of the evening, their joy radiated, making it clear just how deeply in love they are.

The wedding took place at the stunning Grand Hall at The Priory in downtown Pittsburgh. This historic venue, with its soaring ceilings and timeless architecture, offered the perfect setting for such a heartfelt celebration. It was here that Evie and Robin exchanged vows in front of their loved ones, creating a truly emotional and intimate ceremony that will be remembered for years to come.

Before the ceremony, the couple took time to have a private first look and then capture beautiful portraits in and around the venue, with the light perfectly wrapping around them in golden warmth.

Evie and Robin’s wedding was not just a celebration of love—it was a reflection of who they are as a couple: joyful, kind, and surrounded by people who deeply care for them. It was a true honor to witness and document such a special ceremony and reception.

The celebration kicked into high gear, as guests gathered for an evening of dancing, delicious food, and heartfelt toasts. The energy was high, the dance floor was packed, and love filled every moment of the night. Highlights of the evening were the coordinated first dance and father-daughter dance!

Scroll down to enjoy the visual story captured through photography—each image a snapshot of the love, laughter, and light that filled this incredible day.

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Should you do a first look for your wedding? Take this first look quiz to find out!

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 28 May 2025 00:19:19 GMT

As a photographer for 20 years, shooting my first wedding in 2005... I can tell you all the highs and lows of the wedding industry for the past two decades. I can tell you the trends that have come and gone. And one thing I can tell you is that First Look's are not a trend - but a new way of doing your wedding day timeline. There is no right or wrong here - but different scenarios that work for variations of weddings and people. I do not push my couples to do a first look, but rather explain to them the differences. I encourage every couple to read this blog and decide for themselves, if this is the right choice for them.

Wait -- What is a "first look"? A "first look" is a special, private moment during a wedding day when the bride and groom see each other for the first time before the ceremony. Unlike the traditional approach where the couple waits until the walk down the aisle, a first look is typically arranged in a quiet, picturesque setting—often captured by a photographer—to create an intimate and emotional experience. This allows the couple to share a few quiet moments together, ease any pre-ceremony nerves, and often results in genuine, heartfelt reactions that are beautifully documented. Many couples choose a first look to make the most of their day and enjoy more time together before the festivities begin. But there are so many more reasons to consider - or not consider - doing a first look!

So get out a pen and paper, and make two columns. In one column you will write YES FIRST LOOK, and the second column you'll write NO FIRST LOOK. As you read through the points below, you'll know which side to put that check mark. Now, let us begin. Enjoy some first look photos throughout this quiz as you go!

1) The portrait hour is separated from your cocktail hour. So first and foremost- if going to your cocktail hour to begin greeting guests, having some food and drinks, is appealing to you - then you've just checked off the first box in the column for YES to first look. If attending cocktail hour is not of interest to you at all, and you'd much rather be taking photos during that time then you can check the NO first look column.

2) Do you have a wedding in late fall (post Halloween) or winter, where the ceremony is after 3:30 pm as a start time? (adjust this point accordingly depending on where in the globe your wedding will be!) ...then you may also want to say YES to a first look. Because if your ceremony ends at 4:30, when the sun has already crested the horizon then you must accept either (a) do a first look, or (b) have all of your photos be with artificial lighting provided by your photographer.

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3) If your wedding is during a time of the year where rain is a very possible factor, you may also want to consider a first look. Here's why - extra chances. For example, if your first look is at 2pm, ceremony at 4pm and cocktail hour is 4:30 to 5:30 - then you're looking at two windows of time where the sun could be out. Hopefully you're lucky and get sunshine all day. But what if you had only planned to do portraits after the ceremony (NO first look), and it was beautiful all day but the rain rolled in at 4:30 just as the ceremony ended. You've lost all prior opportunities you would have had to shoot. But what if you have a first look planned for 2pm, the weather is great and you roll with it - portraits are complete and you can go to the ceremony cool as a cucumber. And last scenario - what if 2pm rolls around and its pouring down rain. Not to worry! Skip the first look, go the traditional route and hope that the rain storm passes before 4:30 and you get that hour after ceremony to get those portraits done. So if you like the idea of gambling - go ahead and put a check in the NO first look column - but if you'd rather give yourself the extra chance at portraits, put a YES down for first look on this one.

4) Are you traditional in your wedding vision? If you really do not want to see each other until that moment the ceremony doors open, giving you all the butterflies at the ceremony - then I can completely get behind that romantic notion and tell you to go forth and put the check in the NO first look column.

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5) Do you have a large bridal party? Do you have a BIG portrait wish list? Do you have multiple locations you want to hit up for your portraits? These are all reasons to consider doing a first look. Getting the bridal party and bride/groom portraits done before the ceremony will give you a lot more time to dedicate to the photography. You can start as early in the day as you want to, getting the timeline set so that you have it all done prior to ceremony. Even if you just have an hour for the portraits so that you get 30 mins for each of the couple photos and 30 mins for bridal party, then you've at least knocked down 2 of the 3 (the third being family photos). If you choose to do everything during your cocktail hour, you'll have more like 20 mins for family, 20 mins for bridal party, and 20 mins for the couple alone - or something to that effect (assuming you have only the cocktail hour timeframe for photos). So if this sounds like you, put a check in the YES to first look column.

6) Do you have a gap between ceremony and reception? Perhaps you have a church ceremony at 2pm, ending at 3pm, but your reception doors do not open for cocktail hour until 5pm - then you do NOT need a first look. In fact, I highly suggest against it. That will make for your photography package to be several more hours than it needs to be, and you & your bridal party will be pretty tuckered out by the time the reception begins (Assuming you'd have to do your first look by 11:30 am or noon at the latest). This also makes the makeup/hair start times much earlier in the morning. So if your ceremony is early in the day, with a gap between that and reception - go ahead and put a check in the NO column.

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7) Is your portrait location in the bright, full sun? For example, are you getting married on the beach at 3pm, and plan to do the portraits on the sand with bridal party, family, and couple photos too? Well, then you may want to consider the lighting. Full sun at 1pm on the beach is hot, harsh and bright. This is not ideal for photography and I'd suggest not doing a first look so that your photos are closer to the sun setting. If your venue has a lot of shade, perhaps it has a lot of trees or surrounded by woodlands - perhaps the 1pm start time for photos is not an issue. This is a great photographer question. So definitely talk to your photog about this! For me, if the venue is full of shade I am perfectly comfortable with portraits at 1pm. But if it were the beach, or an open field, I'd likely suggest to do the photos later. (the city also has tons of shade!) So depending on your answer to this - put a YES or NO down in the appropriate column for first look!

8) Nerves. Are you an anxious person? Does the idea of everyone watching your reaction to seeing your spouse for the first time make you feel butterflies - not in a good way? Like "I kinda wanna throw up" sort of way? Maybe doing a first look is right for you. Seeing each other for the first time before the ceremony will get those feelings out of the way in a private space. This will almost feel like someone gave you a literal "chill pill" and you'll end up walking down the aisle to a whole different set of feelings. Pure joy and happiness, without the gut wrenching anxiety. If this sounds like you, then go ahead and put a check in the YES to first look column. On the flip side, if you feel like that excitement is something to seek - maybe keeping that moment for the aisle is perfect for you, and in that case put a check down for NO first look.

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9) Capturing the moment. I will certainly capture the moments the best of my ability during a ceremony when the couple sees each other for the first time. But if you want it in a more controlled environment, where we can be closer to each of you, and thus capturing the best photos/video possible of your reactions to each other - then a first look might be right for you - and you can check YES to first look. If that is not something that matters or appeals to you at all, and you'd prefer the opposite -where no one is really close to you during that moment, perhaps the answer is NO first look on this point.

10) Extending your time together. If you think about it, the wedding day is 24 hours, lets go ahead and subtract midnight to 7am. So you're down to 17 hours of the day. And we'll also guess that your reception ends at 10pm based on most venues noise ordinances. So that cuts down to 15 hrs. If you're trying to maximize the hours together on your wedding day, why not start your day at 1 or 2pm with a first look, rather than not seeing each other until a 4:30pm ceremony. You can potentially spend 9 hours of your wedding together, vs just 5-6. This isn't always possible, based on the ceremony start times of course, but if you have a later ceremony - AND you like the idea of having more hours together with your spouse then check off YES to the first look column on this one. antoinettematthew_0298 antoinettematthew_0299 antoinettematthew_0301 antoinettematthew_0319

11) Logistics - Are your getting ready locations far apart? Logistically, sometimes a first look just isn't in the cards. If the couple is getting ready across town and the location, transportation, etc don't align to make the first look feasible - then its an easy NO to first look here. Or, do you have zero bridal party and a small venue with the portrait locations right outside? Maybe its just really a necessity to do photos early in this case. Or, do you have a more chill crowd and prefer to just be more busy during cocktail hour then sit and chat? Then for any of these reasons, perhaps not doing a first look is right for you.

12) Religious or Cultural Reasons – In some cultures or faiths, it’s customary or expected that the couple avoids seeing each other until the ceremony. In this scenario, its an easy answer as well to put NO to first look column here.

13) The build of anticipation doesn't appeal to you. If you DO or DO NOT like the idea of building up the tension all day long until you see your spouse for the first time - this also can be a YES or NO answer for you.

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14) Doing a first look allows for more time for photos, which not only enhances the overall experience but also encourages greater creativity from your photographer and videographer. With a more relaxed timeline, we're able to explore a variety of poses, locations, and ideas without feeling rushed. As a photographer, having that extra time means we can be more intentional and artistic. Plus, it gives the couple a chance to take breaks when needed—whether to sit down, grab a drink of water, or simply breathe and enjoy the moment. If you like this sound of this, put a check in the YES to first look column.

15) Timeline control and riding the energy high. There are many points here that I can dive into, but one is the domino effect of time. For example - if you do a first look before the ceremony, knocking out the couple and bridal party photos early... Then after the wedding ceremony, you can do family portraits and head off to cocktail hour. This means that you can begin greeting all of your guests which enables everyone to bask in your high energy of the moment. You just got married only 15 mins ago and you're beaming, they want to hug you and share their excitement that is also radiating as well. They're dying to say hello to you and give you those congratulations. From here - the dominos continue to fall in your favor. Since you've been able to greet the guests in cocktail hour, then after dinner you can jump into dancing much sooner than if you had to begin saying your hello's at the tables at that time. This will make post-dinner greetings quick and easy - and you'll gain many more dance floor songs.

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So now that you have finished this quiz, where did you fall into? Are you in the YES TO FIRST LOOK columns, or are you in the NO TO FIRST LOOK COLUMN? I know that this is such a huge decision for couples to make about their upcoming weddings, and I really hope that this blog was a helpful resource for you!

Venue highlight - The Grand Estate at Hidden Acres PART 2

(SkySight Photography) — Tue, 27 May 2025 22:13:57 GMT

Venue feature: The Grand Estate at Hidden Acres - PART 2

Because there are so many images, I decided to keep it rolling with part 2 of the Grand Estate blog! If you landed here and haven't seen part 1... you can check that out now and come on back here with a convenient link at the end of Part 1 :)

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Venue highlight - The Grand Estate at Hidden Acres PART 1

(SkySight Photography) — Tue, 27 May 2025 22:11:57 GMT

Tucked away in the scenic hills of Freeport, Pennsylvania, the Grand Estate at Hidden Acres offers a captivating blend of historic charm and timeless elegance. Once a private mansion, this beautifully restored estate now serves as a premier venue for weddings, events, and weekend getaways. With its sprawling grounds, stately architecture, and tranquil ambiance, the Grand Estate provides an unforgettable backdrop for life’s most cherished moments. Whether you're planning a small or large celebration, this venue promises a truly exceptional experience. The owners and staff are family and you can see and feel that difference when you're a client of theirs. They truly go above and beyond.

The Grand Estate at Hidden Acres boasts a wide array of features designed to elevate any event or stay. The property includes a stunning 13,000-square-foot mansion with luxurious overnight accommodations, elegant dining and gathering spaces, and a grand tent perfect for receptions and formal events. Outdoor highlights include beautifully landscaped gardens, a serene pond, and multiple picturesque ceremony sites that make for breathtaking photo opportunities (like a vintage car, chandeliers in the woods, and more!). Guests can also enjoy the estate's wraparound veranda, cozy fire pits, and spacious patios—ideal for cocktail hours or relaxed evening gatherings. Every detail, from the vintage decor to the modern amenities, is thoughtfully curated to ensure an unforgettable experience.

I can't recommend this venue enough and have been a proud supporter of them since they opened their doors. As a photographer on their vendor referral list since opening, I have countless memories of weddings photographed at this venue! Each one is unique in their own way, with gorgeous details from the start of the day to the end of the night. The fireworks are an amazing addition and the tent ceiling are my favorite perks among many :)

Enjoy an array of images from the weddings I've photographed here at this awesome venue! Don't forget to check out PART 2 - the link will be at the bottom of this page as well!

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Continue on!

Click on over the PART 2 of this venue spotlight!

https://www.skysightphotography.com/blog/2025/5/venue-highlight---the-grand-estate-at-hidden-acres-part-2

8 Reasons You Should Hire a Professional Maternity Photographer for Your Portraits

(SkySight Photography) — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 19:13:02 GMT

GUEST BLOGGER: MELISSA HELMAN

This week, I had the fun opportunity to swap places with another talented photographer! I wrote a guest post on Melissa's blog about bridal boudoir sessions, and now I’m excited to welcome her here as a guest blogger.

It’s my pleasure to introduce Melissa Helman of Melissa Helman Photography, a skilled maternity and newborn photographer based in Pittsburgh. Today, she’s sharing her insight on why hiring a professional maternity photographer can make all the difference—with 8 compelling reasons to consider for your own maternity portraits.

8 Meaningful Reasons to Hire a Professional Maternity Photographer

Pregnancy is a chapter filled with anticipation, love, and transformation. It’s a fleeting moment in your journey that deserves to be celebrated and remembered—not just in your heart, but in beautiful, tangible ways.

If you’ve been on the fence about booking maternity portraits, here are 8 meaningful reasons why hiring a professional maternity photographer is absolutely worth it.

1. Years of Experience Make a Difference

A seasoned maternity photographer doesn’t just pick up a camera and click. They’ve spent years honing their craft—learning how to work with lighting, how to pose a growing belly beautifully, and how to create a relaxed environment that makes every mom feel her best.

From knowing the best timelines (hello, 28–34 weeks!) to handling last-minute reschedules, experienced photographers have seen it all and are ready for anything. That kind of knowledge is earned through years of dedication, care and time.

2. An Exceptional Portrait Experience

You deserve more than just pretty pictures—you deserve a full experience. From your very first inquiry to the final delivery of your artwork, a professional maternity photographer creates a seamless, stress-free process that feels personal and luxurious.

You’ll be guided through every step—choosing looks that fit your vision, selecting the curated gowns, fabric and looks, style assistance for your significant other and even designing custom wall art or albums. It’s all taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying the moment.

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3. Curated Studio Wardrobe = Less Stress, More Style

Don’t want to shop for the perfect maternity gown? You don’t have to.

Most professional maternity photographers offer a curated studio closet filled with gorgeous, bump-friendly dresses and luxury fabrics that photograph beautifully and flatter every body type. These pieces are carefully chosen to elevate your portraits, save you time, and help you feel like a glowing goddess.

Glam hair and makeup recommendations are also given for your special day to help you feel your best before your scheduled session.

4. Comfort and Ease During the Session

Let’s be honest: being pregnant isn’t always the most comfortable time, and the thought of posing in front of a camera might feel intimidating. That’s where hiring a pro truly shines.

An experienced maternity photographer knows how to make you feel at ease. They’ll guide you through the session with patience, compassion, and encouragement—making sure you feel supported every step of the way.

5. Mastery of Light

Light can make or break a photo—and professional photographers are masters of using it to create magic from dramatic glam lighting to editorial style lighting.

Studio lighting, a pro knows how to use light to sculpt your shape, highlight your bump, and create stunning, mood-rich portraits. Good lighting can make your skin glow, bring out emotion, and turn a simple image into something truly artistic.

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6. Expertise in Posing

Not sure what to do with your hands? Don’t worry—your photographer’s got you.

Professional maternity photographers understand how to pose the pregnant body beautifully and comfortably, bringing attention to the bump while also celebrating the entire woman. They know how to capture flattering angles, tender expressions, and artistic shapes that turn your session into something elegant, empowering, and timeless.

7. Heirloom-Quality Artwork

Digital photos are great—but professional photographers offer more than just a gallery link. They create tangible art.

From custom-framed wall portraits to acrylic and leather albums, a pro photographer provides you with heirloom pieces that you’ll cherish for generations. These are the photos your child will look back on one day, seeing the love and strength that brought them into the world.

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8. It’s About More Than Photos—It’s About Legacy

This season of life is magical. Your changing body, your connection with your baby, your growing family—it’s all part of your story. A professional maternity photographer doesn’t just capture images; they preserve emotion, legacy, and love.

When you hire a professional, you’re not just booking a session—you’re honoring your journey.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve This

You deserve to feel radiant, strong, and beautiful during your pregnancy—and you deserve to look back on this time with pride and joy. Hiring a professional maternity photographer ensures that your experience is as meaningful as the images themselves.

Whether you’re celebrating your first baby or your fifth, this is a chapter you’ll never relive. Let’s create something magical together.

Oak Lodge Wedding in Stahlstown PA

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 02:41:55 GMT

Nestled in the serene Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania, Oak Lodge in Stahlstown offers a picturesque and exclusive setting for couples seeking a rustic yet refined wedding experience. Spanning 800 acres, this private estate features a handcrafted log village that includes a charming chapel, rustic tavern, and elegant reception hall, all set against a backdrop of rolling hills and woodlands. Whether you're planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, Oak Lodge provides a versatile venue that caters to a range of wedding styles and sizes.

Here is a little sample of a wedding photographed there!

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Real estate photo shoot in a model home

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 15:24:38 GMT

HEADSHOTS FOR A REALTOR IN A MODEL HOME VS THE STUDIO

I absolutely love doing headshots in my studio for realtors, I can provide a very clean simple look, and the packages can be shorter, quicker, and less expensive. I've created hundreds of headshots in the studio that work flawlessly for all professionals, including real estate agents. However, sometimes going the extra mile and doing the photos in the environment they work in can be an added benefit.

Doing headshots in a house for a realtor can create a more personalized and relatable image. By using the home environment, realtors can highlight their connection to the property, making them seem more approachable and in tune with the homes they represent. This can build trust with potential clients, as they can easily picture the realtor working within that home setting.

Another benefit is the opportunity to showcase the property’s ambiance in a subtle way. With natural lighting and a well-chosen backdrop, the headshot can capture the home's character, subtly enhancing the realtor’s brand while emphasizing the quality of the space they are selling. It’s an effective way to integrate a professional image with the home environment.

Here is a wonderful sample session of Kristin Susa from Realty ONE Group who secured the use of a model home in Oakmont for the shoot! This session was completed in two hours - using all areas of the home and four outfit changes! Inquire for more details if you're also a real estate agent who would love to capture a shoot like this of yourself!

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Westmoreland and Allegheny County Courthouse weddings

(SkySight Photography) — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 19:09:06 GMT

If you're seriously considering a courthouse wedding in Western Pennsylvania, you should definitely look into Westmoreland and Allegheny County! This blog highlights some details about each, as well as my thoughts on why a courthouse wedding might be the right fit for you! In addition, I'll post images below of a few photos from weddings at each location!

The Westmoreland County Courthouse is a beautiful staple at the center of its county. Couples are getting married here all the time, and for obvious reasons—it's really quite beautiful! The Allegheny Courthouse is also an amazing example of architecture and design. In fact, many people who see photos of the interior are shocked to learn it is the Allegheny County Courthouse in downtown Pittsburgh, as many have driven past it a hundred times but have never seen the interior.

The Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was completed in 1888. The courthouse is an impressive example of Romanesque Revival architecture and was designed by architect Henry Hobson Richardson. It is considered one of Pittsburgh's architectural landmarks and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Westmoreland County Courthouse, located in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, was completed in 1906. It was designed by architect William H. Frye and is known for its Beaux-Arts style of architecture. This courthouse is an important historic landmark in the area and serves as the center of judicial proceedings for the county.

Why is getting married in a courthouse as popular as ever? With so many wedding venues, such as barns, mansions, and more to rent out, why are couples still opting for something that was done so often in the 1960s? Well, if you look at the history of the two decades when courthouse weddings were the most popular, this may be a sign of the current times. Courthouse weddings were most common during the 1960s and 1970s. During this time, more couples began opting for simpler, less formal ceremonies due to changing societal norms, the rise of civil rights movements, and the increasing cost of traditional weddings. The convenience and affordability of courthouse weddings made them especially appealing, particularly for couples looking for a quick and private way to get married without the traditional religious or large social ceremony.

Although big weddings are certainly still a very popular choice, I have found more and more phone calls are coming in for photography requests for simple courthouse weddings on weekday afternoons. In either location (Allegheny or Westmoreland), I find they are typically late morning or early afternoon—perfect times to seal the deal and head off for an evening dinner with family and friends. Or even just a small backyard reception at your own home, with a fire pit and local catering brought in.

Having a courthouse wedding on a weekday offers several benefits. First, lower costs are often associated with weekday weddings, as venues and vendors tend to offer discounts during less popular days. Second, less crowded venues make for a more intimate and personal ceremony without the hustle and bustle of larger weekend crowds. Third, more flexible scheduling means you can choose a time that works best for you and your partner, without having to compete for availability. Fourth, quicker planning is possible since there’s less demand for the same services, meaning less waiting time for permits and appointments. Finally, when it comes to hiring vendors like photographers, florists, and videographers, you can certainly opt for a much smaller package and keep your overall wedding budget more affordable.

Interested in 1–3 hours of photography coverage for your courthouse wedding? I'd love to chat with you! Please reach out anytime via email!

Here are some examples of the two courthouses I talked about in this blog.

Allegheny County Courthouse

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Westmoreland County Courthouse

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Venue spotlight - The Priory Pittsburgh PA

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 01:14:51 GMT

Venue Spotlight!

Pittsburgh's Grand Hall at the Priory

Pittsburgh's Grand Hall at The Priory is a historic wedding venue located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Originally built in 1854 as St. Mary's Church, the venue features soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and Corinthian columns, creating a breathtaking backdrop for weddings. The Grand Hall can accommodate up to 350 seated guests and offers full-service packages, including catering, bar services, and valet parking. Additionally, the adjacent Priory Hotel provides 42 elegant guest rooms, ensuring a seamless experience for both the couple and their guests.

The Priory is an excellent choice for wedding photography due to its stunning historical architecture and unique features. The Grand Hall, with its soaring vaulted ceilings and intricate stained-glass windows, provides dramatic and beautiful backdrops for photos. The space is filled with natural light in the daytime (especially on a sunny day), which creates a romantic atmosphere, perfect for capturing intimate moments. Additionally, the venue's mix of classic architecture with modern amenities offers diverse settings for photos—whether inside the grand hall or outside on the surrounding grounds. The venue's timeless elegance ensures every shot feels like a work of art.

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Complimentary Studio Engagement Session - Perfect for save the dates!!

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 00:59:09 GMT

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In 2025, a new item has been added to our wedding packages which you can find on our wedding website!

This is the complimentary studio mini engagement package, or a "save the date mini shoot".

Included in this mini package is a 20 minute engagement session in studio, 15 digital files, and an option to upgrade to purchase more proofs if you wish.

Here is an example of a few of our recent studio engagement sessions!

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NEW YEAR, NEW HEADSHOTS! Join us for a headshot mini session day 2025

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 17:26:23 GMT

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NEW YEAR, NEW HEADSHOTS!

Come join us for our headshot mini session day!

DATES

Various slots available in February - contact me to inquire for openings still available

EMAIL: [email protected] or use my Contact page

PACKAGE DETAILS:

You can do one outfit per time slot, feel free to purchase additional time slots. Each slot will be approx 20 mins, and you will receive a collection of 10 proofs online to choose from, then 2 of images of your choice from the proofs will be fully edited and emailed to you as digital file for your usage however you wish (print, online, etc).

Package total: $200

A LA CARTE OPTIONS:

Additional outfit (xtra 15mins of shooting) $50
Additional digital images - 5 for $150, 10 for $200, 15 for $250
Add square cropped / social media and LinkedIn optimized images for $25
Additional editing requests* $5-10/image depending on requests
*Editing includes: teeth whitening, body slimming, facial blemish/wrinkle retouching, smoothing of skin, lighten bags of eyes or redness around pupils

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Learn photography!

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 03:13:52 GMT

I am excited to announce that I will be hosting an intro to photography class on February 20th from 5:30 to 8:30, with some overtime at the end until approximately 9:30 pm for Q&A! We will learn about the basics of photography including ISO, shutter speed, aperture, composition rules and more! I can't wait to teach this class, its been a few years (pre-covid!) since my last one and it was always a blast to see the lightbulbs go off for people with learning how photography really works! You can be a complete newbie to photography, interested in it, an amateur who needs to brush up some technique, or even just someone who uses their iphone and nothing more - anyone is welcome to this class! You'll be sure to learn and enjoy the process as well!

Who: Anyone is welcome to attend, Adults and teens (suggestion of minimum age is at least 12)

What: Intro to photography class

Location: SkySight Photography 409 Coulter Ave Greensburg PA 15601

Parking: on the street or in our parking lot (Elm Street side of building) - please enter through our side door entrance on that side (Elm St side) down the long walkway to the door under the archway.

What to bring: camera gear if you have it, and if not, that is ok! bring a notebook and pen for sure! Snacks/drinks welcome as well if you find that learning on an empty stomach doesn't work for you ;)

Time: 5:00 doors open for arrival and finding a seat, 5:30 official start time

Date: Thursday, February 20, 2025

Cost: $125/pp *Buddy deal - schedule with a friend for $10 off each.

How to sign up: Send an email to - [email protected]

*Class sign up minimum is 6 people, will be rescheduled to a later date if we do not meet requirement for class size.

January 2025 Wedding Sale

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 01:30:34 GMT

January 2025 Wedding Sale!

Book a wedding this month for any of our remaining 2025 dates still open - and you'll receive an extra hour of coverage totally FREE

Check out more about our weddings here!

www.skysightweddings.com

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Winter 2025 Special Sets for Jan-Feb - Valentines and early bird Spring

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 01:15:34 GMT

Winter Special 2025

Looking for a photo shoot for Valentines Day, early bird Spring, or just a photo shoot to chase the winter blues? Haven't had family photos in a while and ready to do something unique and absolutely stunningly beautiful?! I think you'll love my winter 2025 set!

A cascading arrangement of flowers on a white settee, set against a dark, coal gray backdrop will make your eyes just pop over this gorgeous photography set. Don't miss out, it will only last through February! Bonus options as well, you can add on an additional 20 minutes on the monochrome set from this series or an angel wing set from this series - or BOTH! Feel free to mix/match your photo session among these awesome options to customize some gorgeous portraits you'll cherish and surely frame for your wall. This is a session to stay in print forever, not just for a facebook post!

Extra bonus - crowns and dresses available to borrow in our studio, inquire about sizing!

Special rate!!!

Flower set you see below - half hour $400

Add on monochrome set - additional $100

Add on wings set - additional $100

READY TO SCHEDULE? EMAIL ME NOW!

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Want a refresher on the angel wing and monochrome set?

Check out more below!

Angel wing set

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Monochrome set - white version

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Monochrome set - black version

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Hotel Monaco and Pittsburgh Zoo wedding celebration tent

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 17:14:16 GMT

Ashleigh and Jaclyn’s wedding day at the Pittsburgh Zoo was everything I could have hoped for and more — truly a celebration of love, joy, and unforgettable moments. The day began with the two brides getting ready at the chic Hotel Monaco in downtown Pittsburgh, where they shared a quiet, intimate morning before the excitement kicked in. Their first look took place on the grand staircase of the hotel, setting the tone for the elegance and romance that would follow.

After their emotional reveal, we ventured through the city, capturing stunning portraits of the couple both inside the hotel and amidst the vibrant urban surroundings. With the city behind us, it was time to head to the zoo, where the couple took a moment to hide away until all the guests were seated beneath the celebration tent. As they made their grand entrance, the joy in the air was palpable, and their walk down the aisle was nothing short of magical. They exchanged heartfelt vows, sealing their promises with a kiss that left everyone in awe.

Following the ceremony, guests raised their glasses in a champagne toast, and the newlyweds set off on a private tour of the zoo. As we explored the grounds, Ashleigh and Jaclyn shared sweet moments with the animals, and we captured more beautiful portraits in various picturesque spots throughout the park.

The evening continued with a delicious dinner, followed by an epic dance party that kept the energy high all night long. The guests were absolutely on fire — they hit the dance floor and never looked back! The night ended with an unforgettable sparkler send-off, where Ashleigh and Jaclyn walked down a glowing tunnel of sparklers. And let me tell you, these were not your ordinary sparklers — they were the most dazzling "shooting" sparklers I’ve ever seen! If anyone’s interested in where to get them, shoot me an email, and I’ll share the link!

A huge congratulations to Ashleigh and Jaclyn on their beautiful wedding day and the incredible future they have ahead. It was an absolute honor to be part of such a special day, and I can’t wait to capture more memories for you both in the years to come.

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New Years Mini Session Day!

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 17:30:59 GMT

NEW YEARS EVE MINI SESSION DAY

This year we're offering a mini session day on our New Years set! This is a new offering and if you know SkySight, you know we don't do mini session days often - when we do, they book up fast! We have crowns, hats, sunglasses, disco balls, "champagne" (ginger ale), and so much more to make our set a blast for you and your family. This is one of my favorites, it is SO fun and everyone loves adding these to the back of their holiday card. It is perfect for a couple, family, a single child or even an adult who wants a fun photo of themselves for social media.

When: Dec. 28th

Where: SkySight Photography

409 Coulter Ave, Suite 100, Greensburg PA 15601

$250 for your 20 minute time slot!

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At Home Holiday Baking Sessions

(SkySight Photography) — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 19:56:36 GMT

AT HOME

MAGICAL AT HOME CHRISTMAS SHOOT - A FULL EXPERIENCE WITH A CATALOG OF PHOTOS YOU'LL CHERISH FOREVER

2 HOURS - MAKING COOKIES, DECORATING TREE, HOLIDAY LIGHTS OUTSIDE, YOUR CHOICE!

$875

INCLUDES: 2 hrs of photography in your home, all digital files, copyright release (approx 200 photos)

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Downtown Pittsburgh Holiday Sessions

(SkySight Photography) — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 19:37:46 GMT

Pittsburgh Holiday Sessions!

It's that time of year to schedule your holiday family photos. This year, we're offering both full and half length sessions downtown Pittsburgh around the popular holiday attractions! These are perfect for families, couples, or anybody that just wants photos with a holiday theme. If you're looking for our traditional in-studio holiday sessions, we can schedule those as well at our studio. See our other holiday blog to view our sets and photo examples!

Contact us through our website or through [email protected] to learn more and reserve your spot. Session times are limited!

Half session - 30 mins, around the tree area only $499

**ONE DAY ONLY**

*Includes digital files

Full session - 60 mins, up to three attractions walking distance including tree, large ornament, and others $799

*Includes digital files

**AVAILABLE SESSIONS THOUGHOUT DECEMBER

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Extended Family & Generation Portraits in studio

(SkySight Photography) — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 14:59:08 GMT

This is the time of year that we get many calls for generation photographs, or as we usually call them - extended family portrait sessions. This is a time to get everyone in the family - starting with the eldest generation in a portrait. That means grandparents, their children, and their children! Typically three generations, but sometimes even four! Our studio has two sets with a 20 ft wide backdrop wall that accommodate large groups. We can photograph up to 20-25 people in one photo, in fact we actually squeezed 32 into a photograph in our studio a few years back!

*We're holding a specific date for these sessions!

When: Dec. 28th

Where: SkySight Photography Studio in Greensburg

(409 Coulter Ave, Suite 100, Greensburg, PA 15601)

Pricing for an extended family session is based on our regular studio session rates, which are priced by time and choice of digitals or prints. That information can be found here on this page. A 60 minute block is ideal for families who are all doing a single outfit (no changes) and are no larger than approx 12-15 people, with three maximum sub-families. If more than that, I suggest 90 minute block. Within your session I will typically photograph many breakdowns of shots including, but not limited to, the entire group in a few poses, each sub family, the grandparents with grandchildren, the middle generation (kids of the grandparents), the youngest generation (all the grandkids), and if time allows, each sibling group as well.

We have two areas for your extended family session set up. A light set with white boxes and lighter fabric furniture (soft, light tan wall and floor) as well as a darker "Vanity Fair" group photo inspired set, with rustic elements like ladders and old crates!

Can you picture your extended family photo here???

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Here are more studio extended family photos and generation portraits for you to be inspired by!

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Ruby & Anton's September Wedding at Seven Springs

(SkySight Photography) — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 20:08:45 GMT

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Ruby and Anton met in a very interesting way!

When I started talking to Ruby and Anton about their engagement session, Ruby mentioned how they met at work, Govini in Lawrenceville, and started taking coffee shop breaks with coworkers. They would walk two blocks to Espresso a Mano with a group of people from the office. Soon, they started breaking off from the group and walking slower and chatting along the way. Eventually they began taking those breaks alone so they could walk together for their coffee break. One day, he held her hand and well, they organically fell in love over those walks and coffee shop visits. They got to know each other this way, and I wanted to capture that in their images. And yes ~ eventually Anton proposed!

Their wedding day was a very exciting and beautiful day at Seven Springs Resort! After just a bit of rain (for good luck!) it cleared so we were able to take photos at the iconic Helen’s restaurant location on the property - my favorite place to photograph couples and their bridal parties when we are at Seven Springs! Their reception was an absolute perfect combination of decor to match the forest vibes behind Helen’s where we photographed their portraits. I love how they just covered the Alpine Room with greenery and candles! It was like being in a fairy wonderland. Of course, they had a Pittsburgh cookie table, lots of dancing, happy tears, laughter and celebration beyond everyone’s greatest expectations!

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Engagement photo shoot at the Cosign Speakeasy in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 02:06:49 GMT

Couple photo shoot at Cosign Speakeasy

I absolutely loved working with this amazing location, the Cosign Speakeasy [Find them on Instagram @COSIGNPGH ] A very unique speakeasy inside an old bank in Homestead! The owner was so welcoming and accommodating. The speakeasy is three amazing rooms full of surprises, from a surprise way to enter via a magical clock… to a secret bookshelf that opens to a floor below! Pittsburgh friends... You’ve got to check this place out for drinks on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday (hint, make a reservation if going Fri or Sat!!) Luckily, the owners are so very cool about sharing the space with photographers so we were able to rent an hour on a night they are closed - giving us the space all to ourselves which was such a treat! For anyone interested in a one-of-a-kind photo shoot for your engagement session, significant other, or spouse, contact me! I would love to capture your love story here! In fact, I even think this would be the perfect backdrop for a best-friend shoot with a group of girls - or bachelorette party group! The possibilities are endless,and I’d be happy to schedule the shoot for you.

Want to do this amazing location for a Valentine's photo shoot with your love? Contact me about dates/times still open this February!

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Christmas Holiday Studio Sessions 2024

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 01:05:47 GMT

For my 20th year in a row, I am excited to announce my 2024 holiday sets! I have not missed one holiday portrait season since I started my business in 2004 - so for my 20th year I went even bigger than usual, with SEVEN set options plus a bonus outdoor set too! Take a look below at the options and schedule now by emailing me at [email protected] or just click on the CONTACT page and send a message directly!

{For pricing, scroll down. Below set #8}

Availability on several dates in November - including Nov 11th (Veteran's Day, closed schools) and Thanksgiving weekend!

We are also still offering the magical in home holiday shoots as well! See more info below on this at the bottom of the blog!

Happy holidays to all!

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My first set, and personal favorite this year is my "Vintage Vibes Holiday" set. You do not need to coordinate clothing to be vintage themed, but I decided to do so in this sample shoot shown above. I love the colors I chose for her outfit, but I also think many others would work great here too - including dark red, maroon, black, dark greens, tan and even pops of cream/off-white. I think you could add hats, scarves, jackets - or could go elegant with dresses and suit jackets!

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Set 2 is called "Marshmallow Pajama Fun" because it is meant to be a fun cozy set. I'll have marshallows to eat, throw at each other, throw and catch in the air, and eat out of the Santa mugs. (I'll skip the real hot cocoa by the way, to keep outfits and sets clean!) I encourage cozy outfits, pajamas, or anything super holiday related like Santa prints and more.

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The third set, called Pink Winter Wonderland, is a tribute set this year. A dear friend of ours, and our go-to makeup artist at the studio, Lisa Johnson passed away this year. Lisa always decorated her home in pinks for the holiday and shared her beautiful home photos online. I always was inspired by Lisa's style and wanted to do a holiday set in her honor this year.

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Set four is a close favorite for me this year, tied for the first set above. In fact, its really the same set with just some elements removed, like the couch and the deep red colors. This set is still vintage inspired, but more of a modern minimalist twist! You could wear almost any colors on this, and go casual or dressy. I would love to see some silver sequin dresses, gold glitter, or white fur coats on this set!

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Set number five is a set for interactive play, this one will incorporate the window light (its a real window) as a backdrop and the trees empty - ready to be decorated. This is a great set for children who need to keep busy for the photos, or families who want more candid photos. You can wear almost anything holiday related for this set to look great!

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Set number 6 is an oldie but a goodie. I will never NOT do a set with holiday lights.. This year I am keeping it simple with less props in the light set, and just LOTS of beautiful glowing light strands! Its always a personal fave and I will always keep this set year-to-year! Any clothing works amazing for this set!

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Set number 7 is a repeat as well - but oh so popular! Many of my clients have enjoyed the fact that they can do one set with a holiday look, and one set for the back of their Christmas card with a New Year's Eve photo! this year the set will have more disco balls! I have purchased six more! I can't wait to see how it turns out, for now here are some examples from the last few years of this set!

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Our outdoor holiday option this year is downtown Greensburg, just about a 5minute drive from our studio! If you're interested in doing an outdoor session like this, just inquire for dates available!

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PACKAGE TOTAL FOR STUDIO

or DOWNTOWN GREENSBURG SESSION:

$450 +tax

Includes session with choice of TWO sets, one outfit (no changes) & copyright license release w/ digital files

A LA CARTE OPTIONS...

Add an outfit change +$25

Add a set (three total) +$100

Add professional (LinkedIn) headshots for Mom & Dad +$100

https://www.skysightphotography.com/blog/2023/12/extended-family-generation-portraits-in-studio

[AT HOME]

MAGICAL AT HOME CHRISTMAS SHOOT - A FULL EXPERIENCE WITH A CATALOG OF PHOTOS YOU'LL CHERISH FOREVER

2 HOURS - MAKING COOKIES, DECORATING TREE, HOLIDAY LIGHTS OUTSIDE, YOUR CHOICE!

PRICE $875

INCLUDES: 2 hrs of photography in your home, all digital files, copyright release (approx 200 photos)

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Wedding at historic Epiphany Roman Catholic Church and Power Center Ballroom Duquesne

(SkySight Photography) — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 17:05:58 GMT

Megan Jackson and Brandon Hoffman’s wedding in Pittsburgh was a dream long in the making. Set against the backdrop of the historic Epiphany Roman Catholic Church and the elegant Power Center Ballroom at Duquesne University, their special day was a beautiful culmination of years of anticipation. Their love story began in medical school, where it was clear to both families that this day was destined to come.

My first encounter with Megan was at her twin sister Nicole's wedding in June 2019, where I had the honor of being the photographer and Megan was the maid of honor. I then had the pleasure of photographing her sister Brittany's wedding in June 2022, followed by Brittany’s twin, Kristin’s, wedding in May 2023. Yes, you read that correctly—four weddings across two sets of twins! and we had the joy of capturing every moment!

For Megan and Brandon’s wedding, they stayed at the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center, conveniently located just across the street from the church. This proximity made it easy for the bridal party and guests to move between venues. The ceremony, part of a full Catholic Mass, took place at Epiphany Church, and the celebration continued just a block away at the Power Center Ballroom on Duquesne University's campus. The closeness of these three locations was a benefit for everyone involved.

As the ceremony concluded, we headed outside to board the shuttle bus for photos, only to see very dark storm clouds gathering on the horizon. We managed to take a few shots before the rain began, and just as we anticipated, a downpour followed shortly. Despite the weather, Megan and Brandon braved the rain for some charming umbrella shots in the city streets. The rain let up just as we reached Duquesne’s campus for photos at the fountain and made it back to the Power Center Ballroom in time for the evening’s festivities.

Their reception was a lively celebration filled with dancing, laughter, heartfelt toasts, and joyful tears. Guests enjoyed a delectable dinner, a classic Pittsburgh Cookie Table, and a delightful ice cream cart from Bruster’s. The day was a perfect reflection of Megan and Brandon’s love and joy, and it was an honor to be part of yet another memorable Jackson family wedding.

Congrats Megan and Brandon! Thank you for choosing us to capture your special memories!

-Autumn

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** Here are my previous Jackson brides!! **

Nicole Jackson and Dakota Faulkner Wedding 6-29-19

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Brittany Jackson and Jordan Schantz Wedding 6-4-22
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Kristin Jackson and Brandon Paroda Wedding 5-27-23
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Fall Photo Sessions 2024

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 19:35:21 GMT

Fall sessions have begun booking! This is our busiest season of the year and availability disappears quickly!

Read below to find all of the information you need to know before booking your session.

FALL PHOTOGRAPHY Q&A ...

DO YOU HAVE A FALL COUCH OR PUMPKIN/PROP SET THIS YEAR?

This year I've decided to go back to basics for fall photography. "Fall sets" and couches in the woods have all been done before, and to be honest I found that the images were beautiful but were lacking personality and connection in my subjects because there are only so many poses to be done on a couch setup with props or pumpkins, before they all seem to be redundant. Without props I am able to concentrate more on connecting my subjects together via beautiful poses and moments with wonderful PA fall foliage color and sunlight as my "prop"! This makes the photos truly timeless. It helps personalities and love really shine through the photo.

I enjoy taking a walk through the woods and fields with my clients to find pockets of colorful foliage and light beaming through. Each session then has its own look and uniqueness as well. It is now much less about the vintage couch or props and pumpkins in the woods and more about the connection of you and your relationships with your spouse/children, as well as beautiful portraits of the kids individually of course! I have found this to be more preferable to not only myself but my clients as well.

ARE YOU DOING MINI SESSIONS?

I also do not not have mini sessions, because I truly believe it takes about full hour to get all of the family combinations captured and children's personalities to truly shine through. As well as get to all of the great locations (both woods and fields) so that you have amazing images in all of those spots, with combinations of both posed and candid photos. Although if you have children who are a bit older or feel that a half hour is enough for you, I do have a shorter session option on sale (see below).

WHAT TIME SLOTS DO YOU HAVE OPEN?

I have various dates between Oct 21 and Nov 4. The color always peaks in Westmoreland County closer to Halloween, with an exception in 2021 of being about 5-7 days early due to weather that year being colder earlier. We are predicting normal foliage dates this year. So I usually just plan to start around oct 15 at the earliest! if the color changes significantly early, I will contact you. It is never later than that final week of October however. The magical light are the sessions that take place at golden hour, so book early for the best lighting slot! Midday sessions are great for lighting too, because the early sunset time in fall allows for nice daylight starting around 3pm each day (golden hour will be closer to 4-6pm timeframe)

WHAT ARE YOUR LOCATIONS?

Sandhill Berries apple picking - date TBD (one day only)

Bushy Run Battlefield - fields + forest - dates various available

Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve - available for fall fields earlier in October

SPECIAL RATE PACKAGES

Option A)

$550+tax

Included: 30-40 min session, editing/post processing, online album, flash drive, all digital files with copyright release to do your own printing.

Option B) 60 m Session + all digitals with copyright release

$700+tax

Included: One hour session, editing/post processing, online album, flash drive, all digital files with copyright release to do your own printing.

Option C) 90 m Session + all digitals with copyright release *families over 6 suggested for this session length.

$900+tax

Included: 90 min session in studio, editing/post processing, online album, flash drive, all digital files with copyright release to do your own printing.

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Michael and Sarah's lake Erie private residence wedding with a view!

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 14:10:24 GMT

Sarah and Michael’s wedding was nothing short of magical, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Erie. Their special day took place on Michael’s family’s property, which boasts one of the most stunning views I have ever encountered of the lake. Located just a short half-hour drive from Erie, PA, this remarkable spot is perched high on a cliff, offering a panoramic vista of the lake that is truly awe-inspiring.

The ceremony was held right next to the family’s charming home, overlooking the expansive, shimmering blue waters of Lake Erie. The day was blessed with a lively breeze that whipped up frothy white caps on the lake's surface, adding a dramatic and picturesque touch to the scene. The natural beauty of the location, combined with the wind’s playful dance on the water, created a truly atmospheric setting for their vows.

Michael’s sister, who officiated the ceremony, brought a deeply personal and heartfelt touch to the occasion. Her words resonated with the couple and their guests, adding an intimate and meaningful layer to the celebration. As the couple exchanged their vows, the surrounding beauty of the lake and the gently swaying trees seemed to echo their promises.

Following the ceremony, guests were ushered to a beautifully transformed tent located just behind the house. What was once a simple grassy field had been magically converted into an elegant reception space. The tent, adorned with twinkling lights and tasteful decor, created a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. Inside, the ambiance was lively and joyful. A talented band filled the air with music, while guests enjoyed a delightful array of taco stations, offering a delicious and interactive dining experience.

The night was alive with laughter, dancing, and the warmth of family and friends celebrating together. The combination of the stunning natural backdrop, the heartfelt ceremony, and the vibrant reception made Sarah and Michael’s wedding an unforgettable event. Their choice of location not only showcased their personal style but also created an environment where every detail, from the sweeping views to the joyful gathering, came together perfectly. It was a day filled with love, beauty, and the kind of joyous celebration that will be remembered for years to come.

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Karis and Jerry's midsummer wedding at Mansions on Fifth, Pittsburgh PA

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 14:26:14 GMT

Karis and Jerry told me that one of the most important parts of the day to capture were the natural moments of their wedding, the people attending, and their ceremony. Having family attending from the other side of the globe, and so many close family & friends in the same building at the same time was so important to them. I also wanted to capture the essence of the gorgeous historic mansion, and help them to remember every detail through the photographs when looking back on these images for years to come. When I arrived, we all marveled at the gorgeous day they were granted. The sun shining, blue skies, and soft breeze were a perfect combo for the summer day every bride dreams of. As they each got ready at the venue upstairs in their respective rooms, they were buzzing with excitement but hardly showed any nerves. They were so excited to see each other for the first time on this lovely, special day of theirs. We guided them to the first look location, and they finally got to have their first moments together. Soon after, we left for the Carnegie Mellon Institute to photograph them at the columns, and returned to the Mansion before guests began to arrive. The two of them escaped to have private vows in the small chapel upstairs, and we prepared for their intimate ceremony on the staircase. Their ceremony was unique in that they had a Chinese translator for the entire ceremony so that Jerry's family from China would be included in every way possible. The vows were sweet and simple, and a family member officiated the ceremony. Their dinner party reception began immediately and we photographed the event into the night as the band played and a few special dances were shared. A live painter was present which was an amazing process see coming to life, and there were Chinese cookies added to the traditional Pittsburgh Cookie Table! The wedding was a beautiful representation of their relationship in every way. Congratulations to Karis and Jerry, and thank you for having us photograph such a special day for you. It was an honor to be trusted with that responsibility.

All our best to you! ~Autumn and the SkySight Photography team

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What to Wear for your Senior Portrait Session

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 18:47:20 GMT

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What to Wear for Your Senior Portrait Session

Your senior photos are a big deal, and choosing the right colors for your outfit can make a big difference in the outcome of your session. Whether you’re going for an outdoor nature look or a more industrial/urban vibe, here’s a simple guide to help you nail your look and ensure your session turns out amazing!

Light and Fresh Nature Sessions

For this style, think about colors that blend well with nature. Soft pastels and light colors work wonders in these settings. Our recommendations are light blue, soft pink, white, or cream. These colors lend themselves to providing a pop between you and the background as well as provide a great palette to the overall image!

For guys, a light button-up shirt or a casual polo in one of these colors are two great options. *Avoid shirts with logos, graphics, or busy patterns.

For girls, a light dress or a blouse with jeans work great with nature. *Avoid busy patterns.

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Bold Urban/Alleyway Sessions

If you want your session to be set in a more urban or alleyway environment, you’ll want to match the vibe with your outfit. Darker colors and more structured pieces are perfect for this kind of setting. Colors like black, charcoal gray, deep navy are great options to start with for this look.

For guys, consider a fitted black jacket and suit pants, a simple dark shirt and jeans, or even a cool, modern hoodie are some options to start with. These colors not only complement the gritty textures of urban environments but also add a sharp edge to your look.

For girls, an elegant black dress, an artsy jacket and graphic tee, and a sweater with jeans are great options to consider.

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Patterns and Logos: Keep It Simple

Regardless of where your shoot is taking place, it's best to avoid busy patterns, large logos, or text on your clothing. They can be distracting and take the focus away from you, the star of the portrait. Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns for a clean, classic look.

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Warm and Vibrant Fall Nature Sessions

If your session is in the fall, oranges, yellows, reds, and browns are always good options! Creams and dark blues make for a nice pop off of the already colorful background.

It's important to avoid most patterns for your fall session. Keep in mind that the background with be full of colorful leaves of all different hues; a pattern with this background is very difficult to make work unless it's a flannel.

For guys, flannels, polos, long sleeve shirts, and/or added layers in one of these colors are perfect.

For girls, a dress, sweater with jeans, and/or added layers will work great.

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In-Studio Sessions

In-Studio sessions provide the most flexibility for your senior's session. There are a multitude of colored and textured backdrops to choose from. Setting a scene for your session can be a nice way to add interest and dimension to an image. On the other hand, a more minimal image where your outfit or your pose is the interest is a great way to create clean and elegant portraits

For guys, a professional outfit like a suit jacket, khakis or jeans, and a light colored button down shirt is a great look. Bringing a more casual outfit as a second choice works out nicely for our in-studio scenes.

For girls, an outfit like a nice dress or a blouse with a blazer makes for beautiful professional portraits. A second outfit like a more fun dress or a shirt with jeans work great with our couches and other props in the studio.

Remember, your senior portraits are all about showcasing your personality. Choose outfits that you feel confident in and that match the environment of your shoot. Keep it simple, stick to complementary colors, and avoid anything too flashy. Your portraits will be timeless, and you’ll look fantastic!

Madison and Conner's summer wedding at West Overton Barn, Scottdale PA

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 04 Jul 2024 21:38:45 GMT

I've been photographing Madison since she was a little girl, so having the opportunity to capture her wedding was a true pleasure and honor for me! I couldn't have been happier for her, and seeing her smiling all day warmed my heart.

A week before Madison and Conner exchanged vows, the weather forecast predicted a record-breaking heatwave. We prepared for an exceptionally hot day, especially since the wedding location lacked air conditioning. However, when the day arrived, the heat wasn't a concern for anyone. The joy and happiness were more intense than the June sun. I kept telling my second photographer, "Wow, they are adorable!" as Maddie and Conner glanced at each other, giggled, and exchanged playful looks across the room. It was evident that they were meant for each other and destined for this day.

Following a beautiful ceremony on the lawn behind the big barn at West Overton Village, guests gathered at the distillery and museum for cocktails and appetizers. Despite the heat, the bride, groom, and bridal party posed for wonderful photos outside, before moving to the barn for the reception. Their green-themed decor with tables named after trees perfectly suited this couple who loves hiking.

In a few weeks, they will embark on their biggest adventure yet—a move to Hawaii, where Conner will be stationed in the military. I wish this deeply in-love couple all the best, and I look forward to seeing where life takes them next.

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Erin and Anthony's Grand Estate at Hidden Acres June Wedding in Pennsylvania

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 20:31:39 GMT

Erin and Anthony were a joy to work with. From their first phone call to me, I knew that they had the right idea about what their wedding is all about. They were focused on their vows, the promise they were making to each other, and enjoying every aspect of their wedding day to the fullest. We had the discussion I have with many couples about how my job is to capture their wedding day, while also playing wallflower. I am happy to do so, being far off in the distance whenever possible so they do not feel the presence of the photographers. This resonates with me, as a personal individual feeling that way about myself and own experiences, as well as aligning with my philosophy on my role as a photographer as well. Although when necessary, I'll happily step in to make the decisions needed quickly, taking charge to control the crowd or pose the groups. But when the portraits are over, happy to fall back into my position as I quietly capture the memories as they happen throughout the day.

When I arrived at the Grand Estate at Hidden Acres on June 8th, 2024, I felt butterflies about how perfect the day was unfolding for a few reasons. On a personal note, my own wedding day was just one day later, June 9th just over a decade ago. And I remember that day fondly with the same warm/cool mix of weather temps - a perfect 80 degrees with a little breeze. No one was hot, cold, or uncomfortable in any way. This day was no different. And as my husband and I walked into this wedding together to begin our work day photographing this wedding together, we paused to remember our own day and smiled at the similarities.

Bill captured Anthony and his groomsmen getting ready in the pool house and I ventured up the spiral staircase to find Erin and her bridesmaids in the mansion. As each of them were beaming with delight and nervous-exciting energy, our day began and didn't stop for a minute until well past sunset.

There were a few very unique aspects of this wedding, which I am excited to share here in photos. The attire was requested that all guests wear black, this made the bride and groom (both wearing white) stand out in the crowd like they were in a beam of sunlight all day. It was a very cool, sleek and unique theme for the day that everyone thoroughly enjoyed taking part in. You could see the excitement of the guests, and how it brought everyone together just like a good themed event always does! The other unique factor of this wedding was that they chose to do their ceremony in the woods behind the mansion, a different setup from the normal spot at the gazebo and I absolutely loved that choice for this couple. The fabric drapes in the woods and the sea of black gowns and suits of the guests sitting among the gorgeous trees was just breathtaking. In fact, not sure if many guests noticed it, but a small quiet deer walked behind the bride and groom as they said their vows. (no I dont have a photo of it because it was hidden among the brush pretty well) It was a peaceful as you can imagine it to be. After the ceremony and some portraits on the property, the party began and didn't stop all night. This group of guests LOVED to dance and had an amazing time with the Bachelor Band! The decor all in white with the absolutely stunning tent that The Grand Estate provides (that drapery inside - omg!) just made for the most perfect atmosphere for this black and white themed affair. There was nothing about the day I would change, the timeline was smooth and ran like clockwork. Everyone had an amazing day from start to finish.

I hope you enjoy this visual storytelling below of Erin and Anthony's absolutely beautiful wedding day.

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20th Anniversary of SkySight Photography

(SkySight Photography) — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 14:15:00 GMT

Dear Clients & Supporters,

I can't thank you all enough for helping me reach this milestone of 20 years in business! I started my business in 2004 without even an ounce of knowledge on what I was about to embark on. The support that my network, friends, clients, and community has given to me is amazing and overwhelming when looking back. I am looking forward to the future... to continue to serve my community with my photography but also as a volunteer, fellow supporter of local businesses, and your friend. I have photographed so many of your children, your special memories like weddings, and your businesses that I truly feel like a part of your family's lives. There are babies that I captured first steps, now graduating high school and getting married who are calling me to capture those moments and it touches my heart deeply. Thank you all for giving me an amazing career adventure so far! Cheers to 20 more!

–Autumn

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Unicorn Photo Sessions at the Farm

(SkySight Photography) — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 02:50:57 GMT

Did you know we now offer unicorn shoots?! This amazing little pony, named Sugar, can be booked at one of our favorite farm locations! Just reach out to us to find out more information. Sugar will be available all summer long and can be added on to a regular farm photoshoot.

DETAILS:

One hour session

Location: Autumn Ridge Farm

Photos to be taken: 20-30 mins with unicorn, then remaining time will shoot around the farm (picking flowers, etc)

Dates vary, based on farm's availability for the unicorn & my own openings in schedule, most likely mid july through august openings

Cost for session including all digital files, copyright release and one hour session is $750

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Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve Late July Specials!

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 18:09:28 GMT

Late July Specials 2024

This is a photo session opportunity that we are offering for Summer 2024! The sessions will be held late in the month of July (depending on flowers & goldenrod growth) at Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve in Latrobe, PA. There will be various times available during the different days. The shoots will be 45 minutes each, include all of your digital files and copyright license to print your own photos, at a discounted rate! [See all pricing at the bottom of this blog] This is one of our best sales of the entire year! Email me to learn more about pricing and to schedule your session!

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Package Info

$625

45 minute session

one outfit

Will use two areas of the reserve for session

Suggested for families or multiple children

John & Elise's Wedding at Chestnut Ridge

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 15:33:15 GMT

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Elise and John were such a joy to work with on their wedding day. When I first spoke with them about their wedding, about a year ago, they told me that their focus for the day would be on each other. They preferred the intimate nature of a wedding without a bridal party, or too many events at the reception. I knew that little moments like the first look, portraits with each other on the golf course (they're big golfers!) and the vows were the most important things to focus my attention on. Although we did take some time for all the fun traditions of wedding photography too! such as detail shots in her hotel room, and fun dance party pictures at the end of the day! We had an amazing time photographing this beautiful wedding, and capturing the emotions of the day. I hope for nothing but the absolute best for this newly married couple ~ Congrats Elise and John!

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Maria & Brett's May Wedding in Irwin

(SkySight Photography) — Tue, 28 May 2024 15:36:16 GMT

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On a gorgeous May afternoon, Maria and Brett said their wedding vows in their hometown church, Immaculate Conception, in Irwin PA. The weather was looking very rainy in the forecast for days prior, but as Maria's dad put it... her grandmother took care of that. We had gorgeous sunny skies, warm temps with a perfect breeze. Their wedding concluded and we took off to White Oak park for a few photos with the newly married couple and their wedding party. Just a few minutes down the road and we arrived at their wedding reception, Stratigos Event center. Their guests were waiting and ready to party! Of course they had the Pittsburgh tradition... the cookie table... I mean the cookie room (YES I said cookie ROOM!) was beyond fantastic, and their dance floor didn't stop. It was a such a fun wedding to photograph!

Congratulations to this beautiful couple!

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Travel with a photographer to the Amalfi Coast, Italy

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 01 May 2024 17:03:11 GMT

Travel with a photographer
to the Amalfi Coast

TRAVEL OFF THE BEATEN PATH TO AMALFI COAST ITALY

SEPTEMBER 2025

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*PORTRAITS TAKEN OF YOU AND YOUR TRAVEL COMPANIONS

*LEARN SOME TIPS ON PHOTOGRAPHY

*SEE THE BEAUTIFUL AMALFI COAST AND CAPRI

*STAY IN A FOUR STAR HOTEL WITH A SEA VIEW ROOM

Have you dreamed of visiting the Amalfi coast of Italy? Stay in Sorrento and visit the coast for a week with me! As a photographer who loves this area, I can't wait to share my secret spots with you, teach you some tips as we travel, take you to the best places at beautiful times of the day for amazing light, and capture portraits of you in this amazing location! This tour is for ANYONE. Not just photographers! This is for the person who always wanted to see the Amalfi coast and has zero photography experience, or someone who is a professional and wants to join a group of like minded people who love photography and travel. This group will see, feel, taste and experience everything that this area of Italy has to offer, so please... Come join this amazing tour. Spots are already filling up, so don't delay... jump on board! This tour is catered to adults, or children about 12 and up. A future travel opportunity with Autumn for families with kids will be available soon for a child friendly experience in a new exciting location, so stay tuned.

HIGHLIGHTS

A full day private boat tour to Capri

Private coastline tour - Visit the Amalfi coast to see Ravello, Positano, Amalfi

Stay in a four star hotel on the coast with a sea view room and pool at Hotel Minerva

Hike the path of the Gods

Have your photos taken throughout the week by Autumn at picturesque locations

Learn photography tips and/or hone your already fantastic photography skills

Have a pro camera or just a smart phone? ALL are welcome & totally accepted!!

Have free time to explore more on your own, and not be tied to the group 24-7

No boring lectures - just an amazing travel experience

Meet your group in advance via group zoom sessions and get tips on packing, ask questions, and get to know your fellow travelers

Tips for your days at leisure with options to add on visits to Pompeii, lemon groves in Sorrento, cooking lessons, beach days and more. Options for photos shoots with Autumn on these days at sunrise and sunset!

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Fine print details

We will be aiming for the goal of booking 16 people for this trip. The trip will be canceled if we do not reach a minimum of 11 people. The rate is based on double occupancy, per person. If you plan to travel alone, you can pay a single rate or opt to be paired with a roommate. (fun fact, I was paired with a "stranger" as a roommate in Morocco for a group trip and she is still one of my closest friends to this date! so get prepared, your new BFF might just be born out of this trip!)

A $250 per person rate will be charged upon booking with Autumn, this rate will be your photographer rate for the WHOLE TRIP. For this rate, you'll receive instruction and guidance from Autumn as well as portraits taken throughout the week! This tour will be open for booking starting May 1, 2024. After this deposit is made, you will not have a deposit with the travel company until May 31st. This $250 deposit is totally refundable until May 31st, or in the event our minimum is not reached and the trip is canceled or postponed.

View our Kensington Tour Itinerary HERE!

View the Kensington Tour Fine Print HERE!

Check out the amazing HOTEL MINERVA HERE!

Cost per person based on 14-16 occupancy

$3920

+ $250/pp photography fee flat rate

**single room will be $5750

Cost per person based on 11-13 occupancy

$4080
+ $250/pp photography fee flat rate

**single room will be $5900

Payment schedule details

1. Open enrollment time for initial deposit of $250: May 1 - 15, 2024

This $250/pp is your photographer's fee, this is refundable for 30 days, or if trip minimum is not met by May 20th and the trip gets canceled or postponed to 2026.

2. Initial travel company deposit of 30% ($1176 based on full occupancy) due between May 15-May 25, Kensington Travel fine print applicable, please refer to link above

3. Final payment to travel company of remaining 70% ($2744) due by 90 days prior >> Or pay off balance monthly with just $228/month for 12 months!

A waiver provided by Autumn Stankay will be required by all travelers to sign.

Trip insurance is highly suggested to protect your investment in the case of a situation out of your control canceling your ability to travel. Trip insurance can be purchased for an affordable rate, and two insurance companies will be referred for your choice *or you can purchase with your own/current insurance company/agent.

ARE YOU INTERESTED?

REACH OUT!

Contact Autumn by email at [email protected] or through the contact page of this site!

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Chic and Modern Office Headshot Set

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 17:16:04 GMT

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Chic & Modern Office Headshot Set!

We have a new set for headshots! This set has a little more character than traditional backdrop based headshots. Whether you're a writer, realtor, actor, lawyer or anything else - this is a great option for a compelling headshot with a little more context. View our sample images below and reach out to [email protected] to reserve your session today!

See more of our studio headshot work here!

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Angel Wing Mini Sessions

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 04:46:44 GMT

SPREAD YOUR WINGS & SOAR

Angel Wing Mini Sessions

MARCH 2024!!

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There is something new at our studio! For the first time ever, we're having a fine art mini-session special with angel wings.

Be bold... make a statement in these sessions with so many options.

Come with the one you love, or all by yourself. Anything goes!

So, what do you want your wings to represent???

LOVE. STRENGTH. CONFIDENCE. MEMORIES. ACHIEVEMENT. INDEPENDENCE. UNITY.

DETAILS:

I will take on the mission of representing something meaningful to you. Perhaps your child is your miracle baby that you consider your earthly angel. Maybe you overcame trauma or something difficult in your life that the wings will represent a new journey beginning for you. Possibly a new found love for your body that you want to showcase in a mini boudoir session. Or maybe you just want to represent your proudest accomplishment you have in your life, whether it is a career achievement or kicking ass at motherhood.
There are backdrop options in dark & light, colorful & simple, or black/white and bold. Honestly - options are pretty endless, especially with our new digital backdrop solutions. So choose your attire, mood/style you prefer, and we'll make an amazing cohesive color style.
Our sample sessions below are of two beautiful mothers with their daughters, but these sessions are not limited to who can take advantage of this special photo event! Mother and son, a couple in love, mother with all her children, a grandmother with her grandchild, a single child by themselves, even someone with their beloved pet or a female wanting a mini boudoir session... this mini special can be adapted to what YOU want it to be. What do you want the wings to represent, and with who?
Clothing... Our studio closet is full of MANY options for you to wear. We have children's clothing available from baby to size 10, in both boys and girls options. Full disclosure, we do have a lot more options for girls, since we carry a full line of Dollcake dresses and more brands of the same style. We also have a full closet of dresses and items for women, in various sizes. I can't guarantee I have the right clothing for you - but I can assure you I do have a LOT of options. So when scheduling, just ask about what I have available for your size(s) and I'll send you some photos. I always encourage clients to bring an extra item from your own closet to be sure you have something just in case.
The photo sessions will take place on several dates, inquire for availability. We won't be posting dates/times here because availability changes quickly and often :) These sessions will be in MARCH ~ so don't delay in scheduling, it is right around the corner!

Rates are listed at the bottom of this blog!

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RATES FOR THE ANGEL WING MINI SESSIONS

1 set (ie: dark or light), 1 outfit, Up to 10 digital files with basic editing, 5 of those with fine art editing, copyright release, digital download link to access files $349
Full Gallery digital upgrade $150
Add a second set for $50 (dark or light backdrop)
20% off Day-of special for canvas, metal, acrylic, etc. print products
First 5 bookings get a free flash drive
Touch ups - additional editing available at $5 per image for any requests (body/face touchups and more)

Wedding Venue Photography Feature - Rizzo's Malabar Inn

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 17:00:37 GMT

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Wedding Venue Photography Feature!

Rizzo's Malabar Inn

Rizzo's is a local favorite! If you live in Westmoreland County, chances are you've had the pleasure of eating a delicious meal at some point at Rizzo's. Some may not realize that they actually have a beautiful large venue building to host weddings as well, in fact they even have a gorgeous outdoor ceremony space. I wanted to highlight a few weddings I've photographed there, to give you a sneak peek of this hidden gem in Crabtree, PA!

THE OUTDOOR SPACE

Tucked away behind the venue space is a beautiful pergola, large enough for a big bridal party to stand under. The backdrop is a landscape of trees perfect in every season. The stone walkway from the venue to the ceremony makes a perfect walkway for the bride coming down the aisle.

INTERIOR SPACES

Rizzo's offers a large event room, able to seat up to 250 guests. A cocktail hour room is spacious enough for all the guests to mingle while they devour their amazing appetizer spread, and a Pittsburgh cookie table large enough to win "best of the best" cookie tables of all your friend's weddings.

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Fulton Commons Headshot Day 2024

(SkySight Photography) — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 03:55:18 GMT

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FULTON COMMONS HEADSHOT DAY 2024

LAST YEAR SOLD OUT TWO DATES! We've had a great response to more people wanting more headshots here so we've booked another year at this wonderful unique spot in Pittsburgh! Take a peek below at some of the photos from our shoot and all of the information you need to get your photo spot reserved.

DATE: FEB 9

* second date TBD if this sells out

TIME SLOTS AVAILABLE BETWEEN 10AM - 2PM

* extended times beyond 2pm added only if 10-2 fills up

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LOCATION:

Fulton Commons Pittsburgh PA

This is a coworking space with amazing vintage furniture, decor, and a funky office vibe. If you work from home or want a unique headshot in a creative work environment, this is the perfect place for your photo shoot. While we are there shooting, there will be some people working so we'll be conscious and respectful of them, but does not hinder our photography experience. We also have arranged for Fulton Commons to include a few hours of free coworking space time for you to stay before or after your session if you would like to. So bring your laptop, and stay to enjoy the coffee and check some items off your to-do list. First item to check off - new headshot complete! Next up, tackle the day's inbox.

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INCLUDED:

Headshot session - 30 mins slot (one outfit)

Editing & post processing on all images

At least 20 proofs

All photos included as digitals with copyright release

Images via download, jpg format, basic retouching on all images

Bonus editing - You choose 5 images for extra retouching (teeth whitening, wrinkles/blemish removal, stray hairs, body adjustments)

2 hours free rental time to stay and work at Fulton Commons before or after your session (build your photo shoot into work time that day!)

Full access to unlimited coffee (from Elementary Coffee) and tea (from Gryphon Tea) while onsite for the duration of your time there

HEADSHOT PACKAGE:

Regular $699

****40% off special****

= $425 per booking!

Book with a friend and you'll each receive an additional 2 bonus images for xtra retouching! Plus if 2 slots are available, we can schedule you back to back.

HOW TO SCHEDULE:

(1) EMAIL TO BOOK A SLOT! You will pay a non refundable retainer of $25 when booking
(2) REMAINDER ($400) DUE AFTER SESSION

NOTE: Email to ask about cash discount!

Please keep in mind, if you are late your time slot will still remain as is and you will still be responsible for the full cost (if you are 10 mins late, you will only get 20 mins of shooting time) so please plan to arrive 15 mins early to park, use the restroom, fix hair/makeup, and be ready to go at the start of your time slot.

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And here are the rooms!

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Shenandoah National Park tips, travel log, photography and trail suggestions

(SkySight Photography) — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 19:10:04 GMT

Shenandoah National Park Guide

View our Shenandoah prints here!

Hello there! Welcome to my Shenandoah National Park Guide. I live only a few hours from the entrance at Front Royal, so I've traveled there to hike/camp it many times over the last decade.

As a side note, I'd suggest you print this out or screen capture to save to images on your phone, because you may not have cell reception in a lot of areas once you are there - one of the best parts about being there :) the lodge has reception/wifi, but on the trails and many areas on skyline drive you wont. (no problem getting 3g/4g access at the pull off lookout points though to send texts!)

The park itself runs north to south, a tall skinny vertical piece of land that is 100 miles long. Its literally along the ridge of the tops of the mountains. The famous Appalachain Trail that runs from Georgia to Maine goes straight through the park. You'll often see hikers along your trails that are doing the AT (Appalachain Trail) and you'll know to see them, they're on a several month long hike! very cool to experience chatting with any of them to see what they're up to and how long they've been "out there". The AT runs pretty much straight along Skyline Drive, and the trails through the park that I'll explain below are off of Skyline Drive, and usually go in and out, or in a small few mile loop.

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Skyline Drive - it starts at the entrance of the park at the northernmost point (Front Royal, Virginia is the town) at MILE 1 and ends at the exit of the park in southernmost point at MILE 105. there are a few other exit/entrance points about a quarter of the way, halfway and near the end. There is 4 total. So in general, the park is laid out REALLY simple. There are NO other public roads except Skyline which goes from top to bottom. As you drive it, there is a mile marker on small wooden posts at EVERY MILE. So the guide below is really easy to find the trails, you'll just go to the mile markers. If you're on mile 40, and the trail you want is at mile 35, you'll just turn onto Skyline north for five miles and you'll find it with signs. There is also a pull-over lookout point every 5 or so miles, through the entire park. Its pretty amazing to see, and a lot of people will enter the park just to drive Skyline for the day, stop at the lookouts and have picnics, and exit the park later and go home. We have spent hours just driving skyline many times with stopping points. So once you enter the park, the experience truly begins pretty quickly. You'll climb to the tops of the mountains and swivel the park along this road, and find yourself enjoying the view that the drive doesnt even seem long anymore. Skyline Drive is about 45 mph so it takes a while to get from mile 1 to mile 50, its not like highway driving for sure. So thats why you may want to go into the park at the second entrance, and save a few skyline miles to get to your cabin quicker (see below) if staying at Big Meadow.

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Getting there... From Greensburg(my home town) to the entrance of the park at Front Royal, VA is 3.5 hrs. However from Pittsburgh, add a half hour on turnpike, and then maybe another half hour to the second park entrance at Thornton gap. For us - We take the turnpike to Breezewood, then from there follow GPS to Front Royal. We like to enter the park at Front Royal and take the "long route" along skyline to Skyland/Big Meadow (we have stayed at both). But if you're more interested in getting to the lodge/camping quicker, then you can go down around the outside of the park on either the east or west side. You can put into your gps either Luray, Virginia or Sperryville, Virginia (I pasted below the info and GPS coordinates, also link to directions page, but its pretty straight forward).... and enter the park there at the Thornton Gap entrance. That entrance is only around 10 miles or so along Skyline Drive to get to Skyland Resort. It would get you the majority of the way there on highways, then you can take your time on skyline drive for less mileage.

Thornton Gap

East of Luray, Virginia and west of Sperryville, Virginia, off Highway 211 (also called Lee Highway)

GPS Coordinates: 38.660959, -78.320761

https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/directions.htm (THIS LINK HAS GOOGLE MAP LINK TO THIS ENTRANCE)

**This link above also shows the four entrance/exit points of the park.

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Skyland Resort - (at Skyline Drive mile 41.7) - this is a really cool historic place. It is in the CENTER of the park, which is great because its closest to Big Meadow (see more below) as well as close to the best hikes. It is at the highest point on skyline drive I believe, around 4000 feet. There is an amazing view right from the deck alongside the restaurant. When you arrive, follow the signs to the office to check in. Next to check in, is that deck with view points, and restaurant, shop, coffee shop, and lots of areas to just relax and chill out. Cabins are all around the resort and they'll direct you where. There are two restaurants, one is more the bar food side, one is the more fine dining side... but regardless everything is 100% casual clothing. People will hike all day and then go there to eat, even the "fine" side. Any clothing is acceptable, so just dress comfy and don't overpack.

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Big Meadow - A few miles from Skyland (around mile marker 51) is the other resort/lodge in the park. We love Big Meadows and have found the prices cheaper at that lodge, however we mostly use the campground there. Here's what Big Meadows has to offer:

- Gas station (see more below)

- Small diner

- Camp store with groceries (if you need basics like gallon of water, snacks, anything "camping related" from rope to batteries, its in this little store)

- Visitors center with rangers present to talk to (great place to ask about trails or things to see/do, and learn about wildlife etc)

- An actual "big meadow" which is ALWAYS full of deer, sometimes lots of babies with their parents, and large roadway through the middle of it that you can walk through the meadow. Its kind of unique that there is a meadow on top of a mountain, so there's always wildlife here (lots of birds too).

- campground (we've tent camped here many times, they have showers etc)

- Lodge with both rooms to rent as well as cabins - there is a cool gift shop, restaurant, rooms to stay, and great big public "porch" you can go out and view the mountains from

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What to pack -

- If you have small children (under age 2) consider a hiking pack for your back because they would definitely struggle to do some of the full hikes by themselves

- hiking shoes/boots or decent running shoe or sneaker, pair of flip flops for hanging around cabin, layers like windbreaker type jacket, sweatshirt, a pair of pants, pair of shorts. just prepare for it to be 90 degrees or 45 degrees cuz the temps shift from morning to night a lot.

- Water bottles and bring your own gallon jugs of water so you're not buying water bottles there for hiking, we usually pack a cooler from the house with ice packs and bring our own small snacks and drinks, that gets us through the day and we'll do two meals typically at restaurant (big breakfast, and big dinner).

- Bug spray is a good idea, but I honestly never ever come home with bites from there. And I rarely put a lot of sunscreen on, since you're in the woods more than in full sun. But I definitely pack/bring it, however won't use as much as when I'm at the beach for example.

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***HOW BIG MEADOW BUILDINGS ARE LAID OUT:

Right along Skyline drive, across from the "actual" big meadow, is the visitors center, camp store/diner, and gas station. Then from there, continue back "away" from skyline drive about half mile and you'll come to the campground and Big Meadow Lodge. there are signs for everything. When you get to that area, the campground is to the right of the fork in the road, and the lodge is to the left. A LOT OF deer including lots and lots of baby deer hang out all through the campground :) they're really tame and you can get pretty close to them!

phone/WIFI - you can get a signal on phone and wifi at either big meadows or skyland, and usually at any pull off point along skyland drive I can get a text to send because there is a break from the mountain blocking signal :)

Gas - the only place to fill up gas tank inside the park is at Big Meadow. We usually make sure we enter the park with half tank, then refill once inside the park (its usually cheaper gas $ there!) before we leave to head home. luckily big meadow is only a few miles from skyland.

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Black Bears - shenandoah is bear city! they are everywhere. Keep in mind, they are safe and calm, just give them their space and they won't charge you. We have seen at least 50 bears in the trips we have been there, but then again we do a LOT of deep woods hiking. however, sometimes the most we see are closer to the roads and around the resorts. There has never ever been an attack on record in shenandoah, and in general black bears do not bother people. Especially in this region. We have even been between a mom and her two cubs and she didn't bother us. They are busy eating berries and bugs, they do not hunt any large animals, and they've never BEEN hunted in this national park. So they aren't violent, and do not get spooked by humans since they dont have the instinct that we will hurt them. I always preface this trip that anyone goes on by saying this because theres just no reason at all to be scared if you see one. Just be smart - keep your distance, and try not to spook them. In very rare circumstances, they might bluff charge at someone. meaning stomp their feet towards you, or clack their teeth loudly. this is ONLY been when people try to approach them. So If you do, just stop and observe, we've watched them so many times and they could care less about us. Keep talking loudly, let them know you are there. We usually say "Hi Bear! how are you! we're just passing through and going to walk slowly, we dont want to spook you". haha. it feels a little funny but its kind of cool, just seeing how they really just ignore you and go on with their day. They move along quickly and if you just wait it out, they'll be gone before you know it. Its honestly no different than seeing a deer. We have seen cubs climb into the trees (they will do that for safety if they are scared seeing people), and have even seen this from the car on skyline dr. Very cool thing to witness! :)

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Wildlife - we've seen a lot there. every animal is friendly and keeps its distance. bears, deer, woodpeckers, lots of rare birds, squirrels, etc. Its fun to try to spot them :) a LOT of wildlife appears on skyline drive, so keep your eyes peeled. If you are early risers, get out early. We've done hikes at sunrise and we often will see some cool wildlife eating along the trail in the middle of the woods and there are less people too. Bonus is that you're going mid-week so you probably wont have to worry about it being TOO busy, although summer there is busy no matter what. Its very popular.

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TRAILS! .........

Ok here is my list of trails that I think you might like near Skyland and Big Meadow. THERE ARE SO MANY MORE TRAILS NOT IN THIS GUIDE THAT RUN THE ENTIRE 100 MILES OF THE PARK! But if you stay in the center at either lodge or campground, this is a great guide for your first trip to the park. I have a trail guide book I'm copying some of this info from, but I've done EVERY one of these hikes, some of them several times. There are a few hikes I am going to skip on this list that I would probably recommend if you wanted longer difficult hikes, so I'm keeping the list pretty tailored to what I think majority of people would be able to handle and really enjoy! These all have at least one the following ... #1 has a great summit, #2 is flat and really easy, #3 has an amazing waterfall.

MY FAVORITE HIKES ARE:

Hawksbill summit, Rapidan camp, Dark Hollow Falls, Bearfence, and Rose River - those hikes are my favorite, and difficult but not too long that you can't manage it. Old Rag is very cool, but be prepared. It can take all day, potentially an 8 hr hike for experienced hikers and you need to be super prepared for that one with water, food, and emergency items.

Easy to get to them by following the mile marker :)

1. Stony Man Trail - Skyline Drive Mile 41.7 *THIS IS AT SKYLAND PARKING LOT*

- total distance 1.4 miles, out and back (not a loop), approx hiking time 1 hr

- this trail is fairly easy, an increase of 350 ft of elevation, so its not too vertical, should be easy to do with the baby on your back.

- to access the trail its really easy from Skyland, its walking distance from the resort, or you can drive over to the parking lot at the trailhead (you can ask at the front desk to point you to the correct lot). From the Stony Man parking area, access the Appalachain Trail at the cement post, follow the trail right. At 0.4 mile, the AT reaches the Stony Man Horse Trail, which branches off to the left from the AT at a cement post, go toward the left on the blue-blazed (marked on the trees) which is Stony Main Trail. At 0.5 mile the trail forks, either way will take you to the summit, because that Y is a small loop. Follow signs on cement posts.

- at the summit, take your time and really enjoy the view. Its a rocky outcropped area and lots of people are usually there trying to get to the edge. its a really great view, and second highest mountain in the park. Look for falcons, they usually nest around there and you'll see them flying around just off the cliffs.

- to return, just follow the way you came back up

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2. Limberlost - Skyline Drive Mile 43, turn east at the Limberlost Trail sign and park in the parking lot

- total distance 1.3 miles via a loop, approx hiking time 45 mins to 1 hr

- EASIEST hike in the park because its actually completely FLAT the entire way through, they even have benches along the way. its a good one to bring a backpack and have a snack along the way. there's not a lot to see in terms of summit or waterfalls, its just a nice "stroll" hike.

- I was told that the mountain laurel flowers bloom in june and are REALLY plentiful on this trail. apparently they really line this trail and are really a beautiful thing to see when all are in bloom.

- it was once lined by ancient hemlock trees, 400 years old, but an exotic insect pest wreaked havoc on them and most died. you can see them laying on the forest ground as you walk this loop. this trail also has some of the oldest and largest red spruce trees, some as old as 250 years old. one of them stands alone by a small stream on the walk.

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3. Dark Hollow Falls - Skyline Drive Mile 50.7 (right before you get to Big Meadow)

- Total distance 1.4 miles, out and back (not a loop), total elevation gain/loss is 440 feet

- ALL DOWNHILL on the way in, and ALL UPHILL on the way back. So plan to take extra time coming back up. Bring snacks, rest along the way.

- The bottom of this trail is the base of an amazing waterfall

- This is a really popular trail, I suggest doing it early in the morning before it gets really busy with people all over the trail and taking up the good view at the bottom of the falls haha

- To access the trail, just pull into the parking lot at mile 50.7 , you'll see a sign for dark hollow falls

- At mile 0.6 there is an overlook of the top of the falls looking down to the bottom, you have to go off the path a few feet but you'll see people stomped down a way through. be careful, no railings :) the rocks can be wet and slippery so just use caution. from there continue down switchbacks to the bottom.

- take your shoes off and walk through the water at the base of the waterfall, its freezing but feels so good! :) get lots of pics here!!

(some people even wear bathing suits!)

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4. Rapidan Camp

This is really interesting, but its a far hike to get to the camp. However, I believe they run a bus back here through the fire road to bring tours, you could ask about it if you're interested. Rapidan camp was president Herbert Hoover's camp, he used to come there from washington DC for working vacations while he was president. one of the camps was restored and you can go in for a tour. The hike from skyline to the camp is gorgeous with a waterfall halfway there, but might be long. Its a total of four miles and probably would take about 3-4 hours. Maybe ask about the tour to the camp without hiking it. If you are interested in hiking it, you'd go to mile 52.8 and pull into the Milam Gap parking lot, cross the street, go about 40 yards on the AT, turn left onto Mill Prong Trail, at mile 1.5 you'll come to Big Rock Falls (really cool), and continue another .5 miles from there to the camp. Then return, retrace your steps back out (2 miles in, 2 miles out). Its not extreme on the incline/decline though that I remember (we did this one a few yrs ago).

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5. Hawksbill Summit

Another great summit similar to Stony Man, if you want a little more challenge ,and an amazing view at the top with a lookout deck, is Hawksbill. Its the highest point in the park. Its about double the distance of Stony Man Trail though.

- to access, go to mile 45.6, hawksbill gap parking area (there is upper hawksbill and lower hawksbill) the upper lot is out and back, no loop, and shorter than the lower.

- total distance 2.8 miles , approx 2-3 hrs

- total elevation gain/loss 800 ft

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BONUS TINY HIKE!

- there is a great summit right from the big meadows parking lot, its barely a trail because it will take you about 5-10 mins to hike to the summit. from the parking lot, go to the far end away from the lodge/lobby (if looking at the big meadows lobby door, walk to your left, past the playground and cabins). After the cabins there, you'll see a small trail that goes upwards. Its a short climb and in 5 mins you'll be at the summit. this is a great place to watch the sunset quick and easily, faces west :) Or just a nice daytime stroll to another summit point. Good place for a picnic at the top (big rocky area you can sit and enjoy the view and have lunch/snacks)

This is also a great place to stargaze at night because you could walk from Big Meadows lodge with a headlamp to the peak.

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THINGS TO DO OTHER THAN TRAILS....

- Stroll through Big Meadow (the actual meadow) - there's a parking lot there

- Go check out the view from the porch at Big Meadow Lodge (walk THROUGH the lobby and restaurant, its open to public to sit on the chairs and lookout areas)

- Restaurants inside Skyland and Big Meadow

- Live Music at night inside Skyland and Big Meadow

- get coffee at the shop inside Skyland and hang out on the big patio at the tables, enjoy the view

- shop in the gift shops (skyland has a great one)

- go to the diner next to big meadow visitors center for breakfast

- check out the visitors center and talk to rangers

- talk to hikers on the trails!

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IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, THE PEOPLE WHO WORK AT SKYLAND,BIG MEADOWS OR VISITORS CENTER ARE SOOOO HELPFUL!!!! AND DON'T STRESS ABOUT BEING "OFF THE GRID" OR STUCK IN THE PARK WITHOUT EASY ACCESS TO THE OUTSIDE WORLD, THERE ARE FIRE ROADS TO EXIT THE PARK IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, AS WELL AS FOUR MAIN EXITS YOU COULD GET TO THE MAIN RAODS WITHIN AN HOUR :) HAVE A GREAT TIME! GET AWAY AND FORGET ABOUT LIFE'S WORRIES & ENJOY EACH OTHERS COMPANY :)

MORE PHOTOS TO SHARE! ENJOY!!

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Road trip west - Pittsburgh to Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Colorado

(SkySight Photography) — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 02:11:54 GMT

We have prints available from this trip here!

New Mexico Prints

Colorado Prints

In 2022, my husband and I took our three year old across the country in our van from Pittsburgh to New Mexico, north to Colorado, then home. Below is a photographic journey of that trip and some notes between the photos of where some of the locations are at. nm trip

We left Pittsburgh and drove west for days, with a small child we didn't put in more then 6-7 hours a day on the road. We stopped in St Louis, walked through the big arch to "officially" cross into the west, as the arch represents. Thirty days later we returned home.

Below you will find my journal entries from the trip that I posted to Facebook along the way.

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ENTRY 1

We have embarked on a month long road trip. Will plan to share more of our travels as we go. For now we have officially driven several states, walked through the "gateway to the west" and have an amazing little 3 yr old copilot helping us decide our next route. Her seventh trip since birth, she is a road warrior for sure... But this will be our longest yet, so wish us luck! We will post some of what we see & hear so you can all travel along with us

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ENTRY 2

Oklahoma surprised us immensely. The earth was bold in color, the sunset so golden, and winds sounded like music. There were more stars than I've ever seen on a night drive from Ok City to Amarillo. We discovered an amazing state park full of red rocks, Roadside attraction of the friendliest whale on Rt 66, the most interesting BFF potty, and some of the nicest people in every small town we stopped. As an added bonus we can now say we once passed a sign that said, Warning: Hitchhiker's may be escaped convicts. The adventure continues on...
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ENTRY 3

Our time in Amarillo was BIG. There were big steaks, big arrows, big sun, big winds, big cowboys and big cadillacs. But we did find a great little library in a nature center to swap for some new books for the journey. The adventure continues westward bound...

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ENTRY 4

Amazing adventures in Albuquerque!

We are almost 2500 miles in 💪

Journey continues south...

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ENTRY 5

This trip is not without challenges. (in fact many of my friends with toddlers have randomly sent words of encouragement and check in messages to see how we are doing and my sister has offered to fly out to give us two days of babysitting break time lol). There are meltdowns and tantrums of course that probably have woken our hotel neighbors, my child is NOT perfect. But there are nights of jumping on hotel beds and giggles so loud we probably are ALSO disturbing the neighbors. There are days of literally dancing to music in the streets of the old towns. Yes, there are exhausting driving days, times of trying to find ways to cook roadside to keep healthy food in our bodies, and digging deep to find the energy for giant hikes while carrying camera equipment PLUS a toddler on your back. But there are things my daughter is learning about life through this exploration and time with her parents we can't begin to quantify. We have learned how to be better parents in so many ways during the last 10 days that I can't imagine I would have learned at home. The memories made are worth every grueling minute. While on this trip, we have managed a toddler through 2500 miles so far, Bill has recorded the sounds of nature for his project, I've photographed nearly everything I see, and we have filmed for a documentary. We are filled with the love of our daughter, the nature around us, and the memories and art we are creating. We're almost halfway there.

ABQ gifted us new friends, wandering old streets full of art, mountains with sunrises and sunsets that Orsa called magical, and petroglyphs that were 700 years old and left you feeling something you couldn't really explain. There was an off road that was meant to be a shortcut, but ended up being 11 miles at 15mph extremely bumpy off road quality which turned out to be a blessing of great serendipity because beautiful views and immense laughter got us through it - which gave us memories we won’t forget. We took one of the most amazing drives I've experienced, south to the White Sands. And with shaking hands and legs, I crested the top of the first dune as we arrived just in time for sunfall at 6pm the first day - and literally gasped with shock. I've seen sand dunes before but these were beyond this world. Our country is quite incredible, I encourage you to get out and explore the uncommon, far off places that exist here. The adventure continues...

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ENTRY 6

White Sands. Leaving here with big emotions after our week here, a truly magical place. More to share soon. Journey continues north now…

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ENTRY 7

Here are some more White Sands photos of some various days there before i switch to the next part of our trip. Can't be more thankful for Bill's photography that captured these moments with Orsa and I. Post WSNP we traveled to FarmingtonNM and Bill explored the unknown wild of the Bisti Badlands while Orsa and I rested a few days, made some local friends in playgroups, and got the car serviced since we hit 3k miles. The people of NM have been extraordinary to meet and this state [east west north and south] has truly been an amazing adventure. We immersed ourselves in researching the area and Native American culture. I have learned to love green Chile on eggs and found amazing New Mexico cookbooks. We have just crossed in to Colorado and can't wait for more.

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ENTRY 8 FB POST

After the Bisti Badlands (photos to come later) we headed north for a few day stop to see more sand dunes. The Great Sand Dunes are absolutely huge. In comparison to the White Sands in NM, the colors are so different and the mountains that tower behind are 14K footers. The dunes themselves are massive and take hours to get to the top despite what it seems like from far away. They're quite deceiving. We were fortunate to see the dunes in several sunrises, sunsets and different weather.

We continue on in Colorado to Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs, Colorado Springs, and the Paint Mines!

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Pikes peak snow to play in!!

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Manitou Springs!

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Royal Gorge Route Railroad!

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Skyline Drive near New River Gorge - with actual dinosaur tracks fossilized (below) DSC_6707 DSC_6781 DSC_6810 DSC_7017 DSC_6918 DSC_6829 DSC_7270 DSC_7182 DSC_7328

the paint mines! just an hour east of Colorado Springs!

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FINAL ENTRY

I love creating art as a family. I’ve come to realize what seems normal to us while traveling, others find foreign. Toddler on your shoulders while both carrying 40 lb packs of camera and audio gear, water, snacks and toys is our norm. Since Orsa has grown a little older, I think she enjoys the process of it as well. She has begun to notice things like mountains and sunsets and point out how beautiful they are, she asks to hear how the sand or water sounds under the surface, and for the first time is asking to take some photos herself with the camera. I am happy for her to learn appreciation for nature and art so young. Kudos to Bill, who woke up daily before dawn to hike mountains and dunes before the first light, because sunsets just were not enough. I can’t thank him enough for capturing the mother/daughter moments of us together on this trip, they’re priceless and as a photographer you’re often not captured on camera. Also for encouraging me to model for him, something I wasn’t so sure about, but creating these images together was really exciting and fun. Something I always tell my clients, to be brave and let yourself be glamorous on camera - I finally listened to my own advice. So as this trip comes to a close and I head back, I embrace all of the art we bring back with our memories. Landscapes, portraits of each other, Bill’s project about earth sound and music, all while creating a documentary about the process. It was a month of adventure, art and family. I am so thankful for all of it.

I wasn’t so sure midway through this trip, but I realize now, Orsa really did grow and learn so much as a little human on this adventure. She is different now in some ways and I hope that somewhere, some of these memories will stick in her brain. She still talks about some of the road trips we took the last few years to the northeast and the south, whether they are real memories or not, who knows. But there is hope this adventure will stay with her. Even if not tangible, i know it impacted her. She has been a road warrior since only a few months old and I think that teaches children a lot of patience and instills a sense of wonder. And so, I encourage everyone with children to hit the road and wander this beautiful earth. Its good for you and them. Go without a plan, let yourself experience serendipity. You’ll fight - no doubt. You’ll have anxiety and nerves. But you’ll learn, see, experience, & feel SO much more. When we left our home on March 1st, we had not booked a single night hotel or airbnb. We just started driving west and planned this trip as we drove our mini van. We knew our key locations we would go to, that’s about it. It can be done, and yes children are tough on the road, but malleable too. This was our longest adventure yet as a trio and the journey was more than we even imagined it would be.

As my little Orsaline and I fly back to Pittsburgh from Denver, Bill is continuing on to finish the journey north - more Rockies, Wyoming, Badlands then turning east. Help me send him off with lots of safe travel messages! He is officially 40 as of a few days ago, so I think his last month in his 30’s was definitely one to remember.

30 days and 4000 miles with a three year old... if I can do it, you can too! Go for it!
**Peace, Love & Adventure**

-Autumn

Romantic Fall Wedding at Disalvo's Station

(SkySight Photography) — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 20:59:13 GMT

Romantic Fall Wedding at Disalvo's Station - Latrobe, PA

Jill and John came to me about their wedding plans about a year prior, and of course I remembered Jill - I photographed her senior photos over a decade ago! I was so excited to hear from her again and that she was engaged to be married. She told me about her fiance, John, who was a pilot in the military and how she met him while working as a nurse in California. I knew immediately their wedding was going to be a blast to photograph!

On the day of the wedding, John had us come to the KLBE Air Museum for his pre-ceremony getting ready photos. This created such a unique backdrop for the traditional shots of the groom getting dressed and portraits with the groomsmen! Jill was just down the road at her childhood home with her parents. After the ceremony at the beautiful St Vincent's Basilica we ventured across the road to the Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve for photographs in their gorgeous fields. Then we were off to the reception at Historic Disalvo's Station. Jill had a great idea to take fun photos with her bridal party in the cigar bar basement, with a vintage flash style. Then their party got started and never stopped! They had a dance floor packed all night.

It was truly a pleasure to photograph this wedding for Jill and John and we wish them all the best in their new life together!

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SkySight Photography: Blog

Holiday 2026

Omni Bedford Springs spotlight

Venue Spotlight: Omni Bedford Springs Resort

A Photographer's Dream

Why Brides Should Consider Bedford Springs

From Behind My Camera

Fall 2026

Capturing the Flavors of Fall: Valley Dairy’s New Fall Menu

Bringing a New Menu to Life

Behind the Scenes of Restaurant Food Photography

Food Photography for Your Restaurant

Tim & Kim | A Timeless Wedding at Saint Vincent Basilica in Latrobe, Pennsylvania

Maddison & Karl’s Intimate Wedding at The Art Room

A Pre Wedding Portrait Session Before Their Big Day

An Intimate Wedding Celebration at The Art Room

A Reception Filled With Love and Connection

Capturing Their Story

Miranda & Adam’s Impressionist-Inspired Summer Wedding at Cavallo Fields, Latrobe PA

Tips for dancer, pageant, acting headshots for teens

CLOTHING

MAKEUP AND HAIR

SKIN AND PREPARATION

Should the Headshot Look Like a Glamour Portrait?

Consider Two Different Looks

If You're Also Taking Dance Photos *additional booking time required in your session

A teen model portfolio should be more versatile than a dancer's portfolio because agencies and clients want to see the model's range while still keeping the images natural and current.

Prioritize Variety

Clothing

Hair and Makeup

Include Multiple Expressions

Show Movement

Jason and Jim's Wedding at Mayernik Center, Pittsburgh, PA

Autumn:

Jim & Jason:

Autumn:

Jim & Jason:

Autumn:

Jim & Jason:

Inside the NFL Draft: A Photographer's Perspective from Pittsburgh

College Graduation Photos + Professional Headshots: Why You Should Book Both Together

Summer fields 2025 Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve

Attention 2027 Seniors: Senior Portrait Packages and Headshot Special

Senior Portrait Packages

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Discount Senior Shoot-out Days!

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Capturing a Milestone: Local Government Academy Graduation

Behind the Scenes: Capturing Valley Dairy's New Summer Menu

Travel with Autumn to Ireland in 2027 with G Adventures partnered with National Geographic

NFL DRAFT SOURCE PROGRAM PHOTOGRAPHER

Easter egg dying sessions

Spring outdoor blossom sessions

Mothers Day

Bombay Hook, Assateague Island, Shenandoah - an American east coast safari road trip

Amalfi Coast trip wrap up!

New travel opportunities with Autumn

Valentines Day Special for Couples in Studio

Valentines Day inspired by Marie Antoinette's French bedroom with cake!

Galentines Day

Celebrate Galentine’s Day with a Girls’ Day Out Photo Shoot 💕

What This Shoot Is All About

What’s Included

Group Size & Pricing

Winter 2026 Family Portrait Special

New year, new headshots

Boudoir Valentine's Day Special 2026

Wedding Venue Photography Feature - Seven Springs

THE ALPINE ROOM

WINTERBERRY

EXHIBIT HALL

MEADOWOODS CEREMONY

Need just headshot in studio? or as an add-on to an outdoor session?
On October 12th, 2026, SkySight Photography will be offering a Senior Studio Headshot Day! Morning and afternoon slots are available.