I vow to be there on your wedding day come rain or shine, for 2 guests or 200, for the smiles, the tears, and everything in between. I vow to be your confidant and friend — someone who earns your trust, who respects your vulnerability, and who honors your love story by documenting it authentically.
March 4, 2025
When it comes to senior photos, it’s all about finding the perfect spot that speaks to who you are. For Cole, a high school senior in Pittsburgh, that spot was Carrie Furnace — an industrial, gritty, and totally unique backdrop that made his photos pop in a way no ordinary park could for his photo session at Carrie Furnace.
If you’re searching for an unconventional place to take your senior portraits in Pittsburgh, Carrie Furnace should be at the top of your list. This hidden gem, located just outside the city, is full of history and character, offering a perfect blend of urban decay and natural beauty.
Carrie Furnace is a former steel mill that’s now part of the Steel Industry Heritage National Monument. It’s an iconic part of Pittsburgh’s history, and the industrial vibes give a totally unique edge to your senior photos. If you’re tired of the usual nature backdrops or want to make your photos stand out, Carrie Furnace is a great alternative. The old furnace structures, rusting metal, and graffiti-covered walls give your portraits an awesome, raw feel that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.
Cole knew that he wanted his photos to represent his love for Pittsburgh’s rich history and his appreciation for steel and architecture. Carrie Furnace, with its towering structures and fascinating details, gave him exactly that. Plus, the location offered a variety of backdrops — from the towering steel structures to the colorful murals and lush greenery that had begun reclaiming parts of the site.
A skilled photographer such as myself will make sure to capture the essence of the location while also making you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. I know how to work with the lighting and industrial elements at Carrie Furnace to highlight your personality. For Cole, I used the natural light bouncing off the rusted steel structures, mixed with a few creative angles and poses, to make each shot feel dynamic and full of life. I also brought my own lighting for dark areas that were too cool to pass up for my photo session at Carrie Furnace.
What sets Carrie Furnace apart from other locations is the vibe it offers. The site has an almost cinematic feel — the perfect contrast between the old, decaying steel mill and the vibrant life of a senior in their prime. But for Cole, it wasn’t just about getting great photos; it was about capturing the story behind them.
The textures of the rusting steel and the sheer size of the place added so much depth to Cole’s images. Whether he was standing tall in front of the massive furnace structures or casually leaning against a graffiti wall, every shot reflected his personality and the vibe of the location.
Cole’s photos weren’t just about the typical senior portrait — they told the story of his roots in Pittsburgh, his love for steel, and the bold steps he was about to take as he graduated and moved forward.
If you’re looking for something a little different for your senior photos, Carrie Furnace is a fantastic choice. With its historical significance, industrial charm, and endless photo opportunities, it’s the perfect place to make your senior portraits stand out. Just like Cole, you’ll be able to create timeless images that are full of personality and style.
So, if you’re a Pittsburgh senior looking for a unique and striking location, consider booking a session with me at Carrie Furnace. You won’t regret it!
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