Lately, I’ve showcased quite a few sophisticated urban photoshoots in downtown Pittsburgh. But this time, I want to feature the most adorable engagement session in Harmony, Pennsylvania—the perfect alternative for couples wanting to escape the hustle and bustle. Harmony is a picture-perfect option for many reasons. The small town is clean and well-kept, with fresh paint, seasonal landscaping, and brick pathways, and it also has tons of historic charm. 

At the hub, the Harmony Museum boasts nine historic properties that date back to the early 1800s. The buildings and landmarks are interesting to learn about, and they infuse vintage aspects into your photos, too. Cute shops, breweries, and points of interest are around every turn, and it’s fun to stroll from block to block. If you’re a bit shy in front of the camera, this is a great way to relax and find your groove.  

When I say we made the most of this session, I mean we created magic with every second of it! From stealing kisses beneath The Strand’s theater lights and boozy brews at ShuBrew in Zelienople to brick backdrops and cobblestone pathways in Harmony, what better way to end the session than dancing barefoot in the rain?! It’s giving romantic Breakfast at Tiffany’s vibes. 

5 Ideas for Hallmark Card Engagement Photos

Loving the sweet small-town appeal of Harmony, Pennsylvania? Using this precious shoot as inspiration, here are a few ways to add character, charm, and variety to your engagement photos:

1. Roll with Mother Nature

Instead of fighting the weather, go along with it. If it’s hot and sunny, bring out the sunhat, sun dress, and sunnies! If it’s cold, bundle up under a blanket and show off your new scarf, coat, or boots. And if it’s rainy, dance barefoot in the rain at the end of your session like no one’s watching. You could also bring along rain boots, umbrellas, or rain jackets. Not only will your photos look adorable, but you’ll make sweet memories, too!

2. Mix & Match Your Backdrops & Attire

If you want more variety in your photos, let me know, and I can scope out several unique spots with different characteristics. For instance, Mollie and Andrew had a few wardrobe changes, so we strolled down Zelienople’s Main Street in dressy attire. Then, they changed into white shirts and jeans to pose against the dark brick wall and (think: a couple-focused studio session). Finally, we ended with Mollie’s cute floral tank and casual attire for dancing in the rain. 

With the variety of backdrops, architecture, and outfits, it was easy to get candid action shots, sweet, intimate moments, and picture-perfect portraits. Now, they’ll have plenty to work with for albums, wall art, digital features (wedding website, social media, etc.), stationary (save the dates), and wedding displays. 

3. Treat It Like a Date

You can have all the fun backdrops and Pinterest board outfits, but at the end of the day, what really sets the tone is YOU! The atmosphere and outfits are just personal preferences—a way for you to enjoy your location and add some personality to your photos. But when you’re playing it up, having fun together, and just being yourselves, that’s when the magic happens. The goal is for your photos to genuinely showcase your connection as a couple. 

It’s easy to see that Mollie and Andrew were having a blast on their date…I mean engagement session. Seriously, there was no holding back! They explored, sipped, kissed, danced, and laughed to their heart’s content. You can’t fake that kind of beautiful, raw emotion. (And yes, I promise to work my photographer’s magic while you do your thing. I will capture your best side and guide you through some poses in the most fun way possible. Trust me, even my most stoic guys end up loving their photo sesh way more than they anticipated.) 

Getting Real with Rachel | Pittsburgh Photographer

From The Strand in Harmony, Pennsylvania full of historic charm, to The Strip in Pittsburgh showcasing vibrant urban energy, I’d love to help you find an engagement photo location that feels like you. Not sure about your style? Browse my Insta feed, blog, or website to see what speaks to you. I also love a good Pinterest or inspo board if that’s your thing. I’m here to help you curate a collection of images that authentically showcase your story.