Children, Published, Recent Work, Styled

When life gives you lemons get creative | Soergel Orchards Farm

 

 

When life gives you lemons

get creative!

 

 

Let’s make a really cute one-year-old birthday session out of it! Sounds like a great idea to me.

Oh, the enchanting farm life!

While it may not be my everyday reality, I can still pretend to live on a farm. I love to capture its beauty and create a whimsical experience during photo sessions. When the timing is right, and the farms are willing and able, I will book one of these fun rustic photo sessions on one of my many favorite farms.

While Soergels really doesn’t have rows of lemons trees ( you may or may not know they are known for their apple orchard ), I had to get super creative, and dang, it was a lot of fun, let me tell you. The session was specifically curated from the outfits, bows, sets, and lemons down to the location.

 

Soergels lemon tree Pitsburgh Pittsburgh ONE year old theme session When life gives you lemons pamela salai photography ONE YEAR OLD session pittsburgh pa Theme one year old pittsburgh Fresh squeezed leomade pittsburgh Pa one year old theme bath tub on farm Farm pittsburgh one year old Whimsical professional pamela salai pittsburgh highly sought after photographer pamela salai photography

 

 

 

 

My images were taken at Soergel Orchards: A Harvest Haven in Pittsburgh, PA.

The cost to shoot was $25.00 at the time.

Nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh, PA, Soergel Orchards is a treasured gem that embodies the spirit of community, farm-fresh produce, and wholesome family experiences. With its rich history, picturesque orchards, and wide array of activities, Soergel Orchards has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. Join us as we delve into the enchanting world of Soergel Orchards and discover its delights.

  1. A Legacy of Farming: Soergel Orchards has a proud heritage dating back to 1850 when Samuel Soergel first planted apple trees on the family farm. Over generations, the Soergel family has nurtured the orchards, expanding their offerings to include a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, and other farm-fresh products. This commitment to sustainable agriculture and preserving the land’s natural beauty has made Soergel Orchards a trusted name in the Pittsburgh community.
  2. Orchard Exploration: Visiting Soergel Orchards is an immersive experience that allows visitors to reconnect with nature and their food source. Wander through the rows of meticulously maintained apple, peach, cherry, and pear trees, savoring the sweet fragrance and vibrant colors of the orchard. Depending on the season, visitors can even participate in U-pick activities, filling their baskets with ripe, juicy fruits straight from the tree.
  3. Farm Market Delights: The Farm Market at Soergel Orchards is a food lover’s paradise. Bursting with an abundance of fresh produce, homemade baked goods, jams, jellies, and locally sourced products, the market showcases the best of what the region has to offer. From crisp apples to heirloom tomatoes and fragrant herbs, there is something to satisfy every palate and inspire culinary creations. Take a moment to chat with the friendly staff, who are always eager to share recipe ideas and insights about the farm’s offerings.
  4. Festivals and Events: Soergel Orchards is renowned for its lively festivals and events, drawing crowds from near and far. The orchard hosts seasonal celebrations throughout the year, such as the Apple Fest, Pumpkin Fest, and Strawberry Festival. These events feature live music, hayrides, petting zoos, corn mazes, and a plethora of family-friendly activities that create lasting memories for visitors of all ages. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience the charm of the farm while indulging in delicious treats and embracing the joy of the harvest season.
  5. Farm-to-Table Cuisine: Soergel Orchards takes pride in contributing to Pittsburgh’s vibrant farm-to-table movement. Local restaurants and eateries often source their fresh produce and ingredients directly from the orchard, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of the region. Whether it’s a delectable apple pie, a refreshing fruit salad, or a farm-fresh cider, the farm-to-table experience at Soergel Orchards ensures that every bite is infused with the essence of local goodness.

Soergel Orchards is more than just a farm—it’s a destination embodying the timeless beauty of agriculture, community connections, and celebrating nature’s bounty. With its charming orchards, bustling farm market, delightful festivals, and commitment to sustainable practices, Soergel Orchards continues to captivate the hearts of all who visit. So, come and immerse yourself in this pastoral oasis, where the seasons come alive and the fruits of the land nourish both body and soul.

 

Exploring Pittsburgh’s other Vibrant Farming Community

  1. The Pittsburgh Public Market: Located in the Strip District, the Pittsburgh Public Market is a vibrant gathering place that showcases a diverse range of local farmers, artisans, and food vendors. This bustling market offers a delightful variety of fresh produce, locally sourced meats, dairy products, and a myriad of handcrafted items. From seasonal fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and homemade jams, the market truly embodies the essence of Pittsburgh’s local farm community.
  2. Trax Farms: Situated just a short drive south of Pittsburgh in Finleyville, Trax Farms has been a local favorite for over 150 years. This family-owned farm features an expansive market bursting with fresh produce, including pumpkins, apples, and a wide selection of colorful vegetables. Their picturesque orchards offer an inviting backdrop for a day of apple picking, while the Farm Market boasts an assortment of delectable baked goods, locally sourced honey, and farm-raised meats.
  3. Who Cooks for You Farm: Nestled in New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a scenic drive away from Pittsburgh, Who Cooks for You Farm is a testament to sustainable farming practices. This certified organic farm is dedicated to producing high-quality, nutrient-rich produce while prioritizing environmental stewardship. With a focus on community-supported agriculture (CSA), this farm offers weekly or biweekly subscriptions for fresh, seasonal produce, encouraging a direct connection between farmers and consumers.
  4. Churchview Farm: Located in Baldwin, just a short drive from downtown Pittsburgh, Churchview Farm is a small-scale farm that takes pride in its commitment to organic and sustainable farming. Here, you’ll find an impressive selection of seasonal vegetables, flowers, and herbs. The farm also hosts various workshops, farm-to-table dinners, and events, providing an immersive experience for visitors eager to learn about sustainable agriculture and connect with the local farming community.
  5. Quiet Creek Herb Farm & School of Country Living: Situated in Brookville, Pennsylvania, approximately 80 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, Quiet Creek Herb Farm is worth the journey for anyone seeking an educational and enriching experience. This unique farm and school offer organic gardening, herbal medicine, and sustainable living classes. Visitors can explore the herb gardens, purchase herbal products, and even take part in workshops to expand their knowledge and appreciation for the wonders of nature.

Pittsburgh’s local farm community presents a cornucopia of opportunities to embrace sustainable, healthy living. Whether you’re exploring the bustling aisles of the Pittsburgh Public Market, picking apples at Trax Farms, or immersing yourself in the educational experience at Quiet Creek Herb Farm, the region’s farms offer a connection to nature and an appreciation for locally grown, fresh produce. By supporting these local farms, we nourish our bodies and contribute to a thriving and sustainable agricultural landscape in Pittsburgh and beyond. So, next time you’re in Steel City, don’t miss the chance to savor these farms’ bounty.

 

 

Pamela Salai Photography is a Pittsburgh local. I specialize in Child Photography, maternity, and family, and now HS seniors! 

Pamela photographs in the surrounding areas: not limited to McCandles Township, Wexford, Franklin Township, Sewickley Township, Butler County, Cranberry Township, and Washington County.

Available for travel (fees apply)

 If you would like more information regarding booking a custom session with Pamela Salai Photography, please click here or contact me directly by clicking on the contact button at the top of my website or email me at pamelasalaiphoto@gmail.com.

I use natural light and organic settings to create custom magic for each session.

 

 

Let’s Connect!

1. Sign up for my emails: CLICK HERE on the right side; you will see a “sign up ” where you can enter your emails.
2. Join my private group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1686002001654081/
3. FACEBOOK  you can choose to “see first” or even set the notifications on
4. INSTAGRAM

Children, Published, Recent Work, Styled, Tips & Tools, Tween

The portrait experience: Model . Teen . Dance

THE PORTRAIT EXPERIENCE

The portrait experience: Model. Teen. Dance

 

 

There’s something truly special about having your portrait taken. It’s a chance to capture a moment in time and freeze a memory you can hold onto forever. And when you work with me, you’ll get a portrait experience like no other.

From the moment we first connect, I’ll take the time to get to know you and understand your vision for the shoot. Whether you’re looking for a classic headshot, a dramatic portrait, or something more creative and unique, I’m here to help you bring your vision to life.

Lately, teens have been needing and wanting more portraits, and I am here for it! They need them for modeling and dance, and, honestly, parents want to update their walls – maybe not necessarily take down the little ones’ photos but add to the wall and add photos of their preteens and teenagers. With the world today, I think it’s super important to keep those photos going. Keep the confidence of your young ones high. Show them how important they are and show them how beautiful they are inside and out.

It’s a fun experience and one that they might even want to do with a friend! BESTIE SHOOT! 

We’ll work together on the day of the shoot to create a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. I’ll guide you through poses and provide direction to help you feel confident and natural in front of the camera. And if you’re feeling nervous or unsure, don’t worry – I’ll be there every step of the way to support and encourage you.

After the shoot, I’ll carefully select and edit the best images from our session and deliver them to you in various formats. Whether you’re looking for high-quality prints, digital files, or something in between, I’ll work to ensure you get exactly what you need.

But the portrait experience doesn’t end there. Even after the shoot, I’m always here to support you and answer any questions you might have. Whether you’re looking for advice on framing and displaying your portraits or want to chat about your experience, I’m here.

So why wait? Book your portrait session today, and let’s create something truly special together.

 

Teen model Pittsburgh

Teen Modeing Pgh

Studio Pittsburgh modeling headshots teen

headshots modeling pittsburgh

Dancer headshots teen modeling

Whimsical model pittsburgh dance dancer pose

east end model pittsburgh dance

If you’re a photographer looking for a unique space to unleash your creativity, East End Lofts in Pittsburgh offers an ideal setting. Located in the vibrant East End neighborhood, these lofts are ideally situated close to some of the city’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Only 15 minutes from Mellon Park, you can conveniently schedule sessions at the park.

The complex has multiple dedicated photography studio spaces perfect for amateur and professional photographers.

The studio you see in my images is LUXE LOFT. One of the two spaces I have used a lot from the owner. The photography studios at East End Lofts are designed to provide photographers with everything they need to take stunning photos. The studio is equipped with a range of unique furniture and different backdrops to ensure that your photos come out just right.

The studio’s large windows provide plenty of natural light, making it easy to capture beautiful images. Plus, the studio’s open floor plan allows for flexible shooting space, so you can adjust the layout to fit your needs.

Aside from the photography studio, East End Lofts offers a variety of amenities that photographers can take advantage of. As you can see in my images above, I utilized the building for its unique architecture. All provide a perfect backdrop for indoor and outdoor shoots.

While visiting, stop over and visit the Commonplace coffee shop right outside the building.

Whether you’re a fashion photographer looking to capture the latest trends or a portrait photographer looking to capture a client’s personality, the photography studio at East End Lofts provides the perfect space to create your vision.

If you’re interested in renting the photography studio, East End Lofts offers flexible rental options. Depending on your needs, you can rent the studio for a 2-hour, half-day, or full-day. Plus, getting to the studio is easy with on-site parking and a convenient location.

In conclusion, the photography studio at East End Lofts in Pittsburgh provides a great space for photographers to create stunning images. With high-end professional staging, flexible rental options, and a range of other amenities, this studio is the perfect place to unleash your creativity and capture the perfect shot.

 

 

 

 

Pamela Salai Photography is a Pittsburgh local. I specialize in Child Photography, maternity, and family.

Pamela photographs in the surrounding areas: not limited to McCandles Township, Wexford, Franklin Township, Sewickley Township, Butler County, Cranberry Township, and Washington County.

Available for travel (fees apply)

 If you would like more information regarding booking a custom session with Pamela Salai Photography, please click here or contact me directly by clicking on the contact button at the top of my website or email me at pamelasalaiphoto@gmail.com.

I use natural light and organic settings to create custom magic for each session.

 

 

Let’s Connect!

1. Sign up for my emails: CLICK HERE on the right side; you will see a “sign up ” where you can enter your emails.
2. Join my private group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1686002001654081/
3. FACEBOOK  you can choose to “see first” or even set the notifications on
4. INSTAGRAM

 

Children, Family, Published, Recent Work, Styled

Pittsburgh Sakura Project | Cherry blossom portrait sessions

April 17, 2023

 

Pittsburgh Sakura Project | Cherry blossom portrait sessions

The blooms are the first promise of spring.

 

 

The Pittsburgh Sakura Project is an initiative aimed at planting cherry blossom trees throughout the city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The project was launched in 2015 by the nonprofit organization, the Japan-America Society of Pennsylvania (JASP), in an effort to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation of the Japanese culture.

The cherry blossom, also known as sakura in Japanese, is a symbol of renewal, hope, and beauty in Japanese culture. Every year, the arrival of the cherry blossoms in Japan is celebrated with the traditional Hanami festival, during which people gather under the blooming trees to appreciate their beauty and reflect on the fleeting nature of life.

The Pittsburgh Sakura Project has planted cherry blossom trees in several locations throughout the city, including parks, public spaces, and schools. The project has also organized various events and activities to promote the appreciation of Japanese culture, such as traditional tea ceremonies, cultural festivals, and educational programs.

The project has received support from various organizations and individuals, including the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, the City of Pittsburgh, and the Japanese government. It has also inspired similar initiatives in other cities across the United States.

Overall, the Pittsburgh Sakura Project is a beautiful and meaningful way to bring a touch of Japan to the city of Pittsburgh and promote cultural exchange and understanding.

 

 

I get asked ALL THE TIME where do I go for cherry blossom sessions as if I have a secret spot – I do not.  So I thought it would be helpful to show you the local north park map that they provide their website CLICK HERE

They also have a facebook page 

Please keep in mind. That not only photographers want to admire the beauty of these trees in bloom – so do others! So if you go to do a photo session please be respectful. Do not PULL at the tress or the the flowers petals that is super disrespectful!

 

 

 

PHOTOGRAPHERS’ FREE TIPS AND TRICKS 

Family photography is a wonderful way to capture the memories that matter most. Photographs allow us to cherish the moments we hold dear, from weddings and graduations to family reunions and holiday gatherings. As a photographer, it’s important to showcase your skills in capturing these precious moments and ensure that your website is optimized for search engines, or SEO, to attract more clients.

Here are some tips for marketing family photography and improving your website’s SEO:

  1. Focus on your niche: As a family photographer, you must be clear about your target audience. What kind of families do you want to attract? Do you specialize in newborns, children, or extended family portraits? By identifying your niche, you can tailor your website content to your ideal client, making it more likely that they will find you through search engines.
  2. Use keywords: Keywords are the words and phrases people search for on search engines like Google. Research the keywords your ideal clients use when they search for family photography, and include them in your website’s content. For example, if you specialize in newborn photography, include keywords like “newborn photography,” “newborn portraits,” and “newborn photographer” in your website content.
  3. Create blog content: Blogging is a great way to improve your website’s SEO. Write blog posts that focus on your niche and include your targeted keywords. For example, you could write a blog post about “5 tips for capturing beautiful newborn portraits” or “How to choose the perfect outfits for your family photo session.” Creating valuable content can attract more visitors to your website and improve your search engine rankings.
  4. Use high-quality images: As a photographer, your website should showcase your best work. Use high-quality images that showcase your skills and capture your client’s emotions. Including a mix of posed and candid shots can help potential clients visualize the experience of working with you.
  5. Optimize your website: Make sure that your website is optimized for search engines. This includes optimizing your website’s speed, using proper tags and headers, and ensuring your website is mobile-friendly. Optimizing your website can improve your search engine rankings and attract more clients.
  6. Encourage reviews: Reviews and testimonials can be powerful marketing tools. Encourage your clients to leave reviews on your website or on review platforms like Yelp and Google. Positive reviews can help improve your search engine rankings and attract more clients to your business.

In summary, marketing family photography requires a clear understanding of your target audience, the use of targeted keywords, high-quality images, valuable blog content, an optimized website, and encouraging reviews. Following these tips can improve your website’s SEO and attract more clients to your family photography business.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pamela Salai Photography is a Pittsburgh local. Specializing in Child Photography, maternity, and family.

Pamela photographs in the surrounding areas: not limited to McCandles Township, Wexford, Franklin Township, Sewickley Township, Butler County, Cranberry Township, and Washington County.

Available for travel (fees apply)

 If you would like more information regarding booking a custom session with Pamela Salai Photography, please click here or contact me directly by clicking on the contact button at the top of my website or email me at pamelasalaiphoto@gmail.com.

I use natural light and organic settings to create custom magic for each session.

 

 

Let’s Connect!

1. Sign up for my emails: CLICK HERE on the right-hand side; you will see a “sign up ” where you can enter your emails there.
2. Join my private group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1686002001654081/
3. FACEBOOK  you can choose to “see first” or even set the notifications on
4. INSTAGRAM

Children, Published, Tween

Pamela Salai photography | Sue Bryce the portrait masters image competition

Ahhhhh Sue Bryce. When I hear that name the hairs on my arms stand up. She is a stunning women. Captivating when you see her, hear her speak and see her amazing art.

I was hesitant to submit an image let alone 5. I was intimated by the amazing artist I was up against and to my surprise all 5 of my images were awarded. What an honor!

Pamela Salai Photography is a Pittsburgh Child Photographer also specializing in maternity, family in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas including but not limited to McCandles Township, Wexford, Franklin Township, Sewickley Township, Butler County, Cranberry Township, and Washington County.

 If you would like more information regarding booking a custom session with Pamela Salai Photography, please click here or contact me directly by clicking on the contact button at the top of my website or email me at : pamelasalaiphoto@gmail.com .

Often I am asked about client wardrobe. I  provide a curated wardrobe for my child clients and maternity sessions. Often these outfits can be seen through out my photos. When you book your session I will further discuss this options with you along with the stylist options I provide.

I use natural light and organic settings to create custom magic for each session.

Let’s Connect !

1. Sign up for my emails : CLICK HERE on the right hand side you will see a “sign up ” where you can enter in your emails there.
2. Join my private group : https://www.facebook.com/groups/1686002001654081/
3. FACEBOOK  you can choose to “see first” or even set the notifications on
4. INSTAGRAM