Need Some Inspiration - Where Should We Take Photos?
Pennsylvania - Philadelphia Area
Merchant Exchange Building, Old City, Philadelphia
This location is in walking distance to many other Old City stops in Philadelphia. It boasts this grand old building, Steps as well as one of the coolest cobblestone streets behind it.
Good for: Couples, Family Portraits, Headshots, and Weddings.
Permit Required = Maybe
- If you want a wedding party to have photos here you may need a permit from the Park Service in Philadelphia since it is so close to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
First Bank of the United States, Old City, Philadelphia
First Bank of the United States is about 1 block from the Merchant Exchange Building in Old City, Philadelphia. This is another great structure for outdoor portraits during the day and in the evening. It does provide some cover in inclement weather on the grand porch in the front of the building.
Good for: Couples, Family Portraits, Headshots, and Weddings.
Permit Required = Maybe
- If you want a wedding party to have photos here you may need a permit from the Park Service in Philadelphia since it is so close to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
Pennsylvania - Lehigh Valley Area
Hotel Bethlehem / Bethlehem Historic District
Where: Bethlehem, PA
Downtown Bethlehem offers many historical sites as well as local crafters, the historical Moravian Bookstore and Hotel Bethlehem as well as restaurants and breweries within a few blocks walk.
In Bethlehem they like to FEST! So be aware if there is a festival in town you may want to plan other dates for your session or perhaps being part of the chaos of a public event is the look and feel of the session you are going for!
Annual Festivals/Parades:
Musikfest (August - Yearly)
Celtic Fest (September - Yearly)
- Other events run by ArtsQuest
Good for: Family Portraits, Headshots, Weddings, 1st Birthdays and other milestone celebrations and photo ops!
Steel Stacks / Levitt Pavilion
Google Map: Southside Bethlehem, PA
On the South Side of Bethlehem is where you can find this gem of an area of public space! This area from time to time does fill up with fest goers as well but the majority of the year it's open and a great backdrop for photos.
Annual Festivals/Parades:
Musikfest (August - Yearly)
Celtic Fest (September - Yearly)
- Other events run by ArtsQuest
Good for: Wedding Formals, Family Portraits, Graduation Photos, Headshots, Creative Automotive Photos and Fine Art Photography.
Lehigh University / Main Campus Google Map: Southside Bethlehem, PA
Malcom Gross Rose Garden
Where: Allentown, PA
If you are looking for a great spot any time of year to have your photos taken in the Allentown, PA area look no further than the Malcom Gross Rose Gardens. This is a beautiful spot with an ever changing landscape depending on the season. The Rose garden itself recently when through a large renovation and replanting!
If you are looking for a unique spot for your family portraits or a first look location that is different than your downtown venue such as Vault 634, Renaissance ALLENTOWN Hotel, The Americus Hotel or Fegley's Allentown Brew Works look no further than this spot!
Good for: Family Portraits, Engagement Photos, or wedding party/1st look photos on a wedding day!
Egner Memorial Chapel - Muhlenberg College
Where: Allentown, PA
If you are an alum of Muhlenberg College, you are probably fairly familiar with Egner Chapel's famous red doors out front!
Muhlenberg College Campus is also lovely and publicly accessible for some outdoor portraits for families as well!
Good for: Weddings that are booked at the chapel OR Family/Couples portraits around the campus outside!
Glasbern Inn
Where: Fogelsville, PA
The Glasbern Inn is a great spot for just about ANY reason to celebrate! It's picturesque and just a little ride from the heart of the Lehigh Valley, close to Allentown, PA.
They boast beautiful accommodations and farm fresh dining.
Good for: Special Event Photography or Romantic couples portraits if you are a guest or celebrating your milestone here.
New Jersey
Princeton University
Where: Princeton, NJ
Princeton University is a beautiful classic location for family portraits and wedding parties if your wedding is close by to the college or if you are an alum!
The university campus has a collection of various arches, courtyards, and landscaping to capture your session in the best locations even if it's a bit inclement the day of the shoot.
Family sessions can happen on campus with no issues or permits required. Wedding parties may need a security escort for the campus if they are moving a limo/bus through the property!
