I’m beyond excited to share one of the most glamorous engagement sessions I’ve had the pleasure of shooting right here in the heart of Pittsburgh! Picture a stunning sunset, a romantic rooftop setting, and a fashionable couple dressed to the nines. It was a magical evening that perfectly captured the essence of luxury and love. No matter what vibe you’re going for, you can never go wrong with skyline rooftop photos.

Let’s talk about the couple first. She stepped out in a sleek white satin bodycon dress, elegantly accented with feather trim. Seriously, she looked like she just walked off a runway! To complete her look, she wore the cutest white heels adorned with silk bows and slipped on some beaded tulle gloves that added just the right touch of vintage chic. And let’s not forget about her man—he rocked a modern tailored suit paired with formal loafers, bringing the perfect balance of sophistication and style.

We headed to a rooftop that boasts iconic views of the Pittsburgh skyline. If you’ve never experienced a sunset over Steel City from this vantage point, you’re missing out! The sky painted itself in hues of orange and pink, casting a romantic glow over the city’s industrial buildings and vintage shop murals. This juxtaposition of gritty and glam created a balanced aesthetic that felt uniquely Pittsburgh.

How to Master Glam Photos at Your Pittsburgh Engagement Session

Now, if you’re dreaming of a similarly luxurious engagement session, here are my top tips to achieve that high-end, glam look, especially for rooftop photos:

Dress to Impress

For Her: Opt for luxurious fabrics, like satin, silk, or velvet. Details like feather trims, intricate beading, or lace can elevate your outfit to red-carpet status. Accessories are essential—think elegant gloves, statement heels, and delicate jewelry. I recommend a blowout, soft waves, or a low and loose hairstyle.

For Him: A well-fitted suit is non-negotiable. Go for modern tailoring, and don’t be afraid to play with textures and colors. A pocket square or a stylish watch can add that extra flair. Feel free to skip the tie and unbutton the top buttons for a more modern take.

Choose the Right Location

A rooftop with a breathtaking view never disappoints. Look for spots that offer a mix of modern and vintage elements. In Pittsburgh, this means industrial backdrops softened by stunning murals and historic architecture. Museums, downtown streets, iconic landmarks, cocktail bars, art galleries, studios, and restaurants lend well to a glamorous take.

Golden Hour Magic

Timing is everything. Schedule your shoot for the golden hour—the hour before sunset. The natural lighting will give your photos that dreamy, ethereal quality that’s hard to replicate. And if you’re up for it, we can stay a bit into the evening for some blue-hour shots. If you’re unfamiliar with it, blue hour occurs just after sunset when it seems too dark to take photos, but there’s still magic to be made! Truthfully, some of my favorite images happen just before dusk settles over the city. 

Natural Posing for Glam Photos

Practice makes perfect. Get comfortable with a few poses beforehand, but be prepared to go with the flow. The best shots often come from those candid moments. I promise to guide you from beginning to end, and I want you to be yourselves. That said, you will still be in front of the lens, which doesn’t always feel natural. Grab a glass of wine and practice together in front of a mirror for fun one evening to help you loosen up and get in model mode (you might surprise yourself with some cute photos from that, too!)

Glam—But Make it Comfortable

Comfort is key. Make sure your outfits, while glamorous, allow you to move and feel at ease. Your confidence will show in the photos! Opt for fabrics that breathe and stretch, like cotton blends or stretch fabrics, which will keep you comfortable throughout the shoot and allow wiggle room for posing.

One of the perks of rooftop photos is that there’s usually a breeze to add a bit of movement to your photos as your hair and dress ripples in the wind.

Remember, it’s not just about how the clothes look, but how they make you feel. When you’re at ease, your natural charm and personality will shine through effortlessly, making every snapshot a true reflection of your best self.

Personal Touches

Bring along items that are meaningful to you as a couple. Personal touches can make your glam photos uniquely yours, whether it’s a shared interest or a location with sentimental value.

Professional Styling for a Glam Photoshoot

Don’t hesitate to hire professionals for makeup, hair, and styling. These experts can help ensure you look your absolute best on camera (and you won’t feel rushed trying to pull everything together before your glamor shoot).

Glamorous Portraits that Turn into Timeless Heirlooms

This session was a testament to how a well-thought-out wardrobe and location can transform an engagement shoot into something spectacular. The blend of the industrial Pittsburgh skyline and their formal, glamorous attire was the perfect recipe for an unforgettable evening on the rooftop, complete with toasts and bubbly!

If you’re planning a glam engagement session or rooftop photos, take a page from our stylish couple’s book and go all out. Dress to impress, pick a stunning location, and have fun with it. After all, these are memories you’ll cherish forever!

I can’t wait to capture and share more love stories with you all. Until next time, keep shining and stay fabulous!

With love,
Rachel

PS-Catch more inspiration and resources on Instagram and my Blog!