Northmoreland Park: One of My Favorite Portrait Locations Near Pittsburgh, PA

If you're searching for a stunning outdoor portrait location near Pittsburgh and within my travel radius, Northmoreland Park in Apollo, PA in definitely one to consider. Just a short drive from the city, this scenic park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and peaceful charm—making it ideal for family, maternity, and senior sessions. There are many amazing features to this park including the lake, boathouse, green spaces and more!


A Peaceful Lakeside Setting

One of the standout features of Northmoreland Park is its beautiful 17-acre lake, which provides a serene and reflective backdrop for portraits. Whether you're capturing soft, intimate moments during a maternity session or fun, candid shots of the whole family, the lake adds a timeless element to your photos. There is a 1.1 mile path the whole way around it to capture it from all the angles including on the bridge and in front of a beautiful Willow tree.


Three friends walking and laughing together on a wooden bridge boardwalk surrounded by green nature.
Two people embrace in a loving moment on a grassy field with fall foliage in the background.
Someone sits peacefully on a wooden dock overlooking a serene lake surrounded by lush green forest.

The Blue Boathouse

Located along the edge of the lake, the charming blue boathouse is a favorite feature among photographers and clients alike. It adds a unique pop of color and character to any portrait session—especially during golden hour when the light reflects off the water and wraps the scene in warm, golden tones.


Tall Grasses and Natural Beauty

Beyond the lake, you'll find fields of tall grasses and wildflowers that sway beautifully in the breeze. These open spaces create a dreamy, natural backdrop with soft textures and earthy tones. They’re perfect for capturing the relaxed, genuine moments that make family and senior portraits so special no matter the season.

Several connected misty lakeside photos show a serene setting with people in white clothing near a body of water at dusk.
A family of four sits together on grassy hill during golden hour outdoors in summer.
A couple shares an intimate moment while holding drinks in a fall field at sunset.

Why Northmoreland Park is Perfect for Your Portrait Session

I love working at Northmoreland Park because it offers something for every type of session, no matter the season:

  • Family Portraits: With wide open fields, walking trails, and scenic spots by the water, there’s plenty of room for kids to play and families to interact naturally.
  • Maternity Sessions: The peaceful lake, soft grasses, and beautiful lighting make for stunning and meaningful maternity photos.
  • Senior Photos: Seniors can take advantage of the variety of settings—from the boathouse to the grassy fields—for a gallery full of personality and style.

Easy Access and Family-Friendly Amenities

Northmoreland Park isn’t just beautiful—it’s also convenient. With paved paths and plenty of parking, it’s easy for families and clients of all ages to enjoy. There are also restrooms and playgrounds nearby, making it a great spot for young children.

Tips for a Successful Session at Northmoreland Park

Here are a few quick tips to help you get the most out of your photo session:

  • Timing is Everything: Schedule your session around sunrise or sunset to take advantage of the soft, golden light.
  • Dress to Complement Nature: Neutral tones, soft pastels, and flowing fabrics photograph beautifully in this natural setting.
  • Dress for the Season: Spring and Summer dresses with flat sandals or clean shoes in summer, Long sleeve dresses or sweaters for fall and winter months.


Book Your Portrait Session with NKMurray Photography

Whether you’re documenting a growing family, celebrating your senior year, or capturing the excitement of new beginnings, Northmoreland Park is one of the best (and one of my top favorite) portrait photography locations near Pittsburgh. Its combination of lakeside charm, natural textures, and peaceful surroundings creates a perfect setting for timeless portraits.

Ready to book your next photo session? Send an email to NKMurrayPhotography@gmail.com to plan your personalized experience at Northmoreland Park—I’d love to help you tell your story in one of the most beautiful outdoor locations.

Seven connected autumn photography images showing various poses on a blanket outdoors with orange fall foliage in background.
A family relaxes together on grassy hill during golden hour sunset in matching light blue and white outfits.
A couple walks hand in hand across a green hillside meadow during a golden sunset.