Pittsburgh Heirloom Portraits
Timeless portraits of your children, created to be passed down for generations.
You've seen photos like these before — maybe tucked in a box at your grandmother's house, or hanging in a frame that's been on the same wall for decades. Classic, close, and enduring. As a Pittsburgh heirloom portrait photographer, I create timeless vignette portraits of your child in a simple studio setting — the kind of images that get more meaningful with every passing year.
Heirloom portraits are a timeless tradition with deep roots — just like the photos you've cherished of your own family members who came before.
Shot in my studio or at pop-up events, with carefully controlled lighting and a signature vignette finish, these portraits highlight your child's features without a single distraction. No busy backgrounds or trends to date them. Just your child, captured beautifully, exactly as they are right now.
Sessions are offered a few times per month and include a complimentary client wardrobe for babies and children. You're always welcome to bring your own pieces too.
My goal is simple: to create a portrait so true to your child that decades from now, it still stops you in your tracks.
The experience:
styling services
I offer a client closet of timeless pieces for babies and children. I'll help you choose something that keeps the focus exactly where it belongs: on your child's face.
location options
These sessions take place in my studio a few times each month. I also offer pop-up events. Contact me if you're interested in hosting!
tangible artwork
Heirloom portraits are meant to live on your walls, not in a digital folder. I'll guide you through selecting fine art prints and framed artwork built to last.
Portfolio Highlights
pittsburgh heirloom portraits
CapABLE Certified
I'm a CapABLE Certified Photographer, which means I have specialized training to provide a stellar experience to clients of all abilities. I offer pre-session planning for any sensory, behavioral, or medical needs, adaptive posing & positioning, and inclusive language & considerations for families with disabilities. It is a joy to offer a beautiful experience to families of all kinds!
Welcoming Every Child, Every Family
I create portraits that honor the legacy you're building.
I understand how quickly the young years go. One day they're brand new, and before you know it they're too big for your lap. Heirloom portraits are a beautiful way to document the passage of time, and they get more precious as the years pass.
let's build a set of portraits your family will treasure for generations
3. Choose favorites
You'll receive a soft proofing gallery to select your favorites. Once you've chosen, I'll get to work on the final edits and help you select the prints and frames to bring it all home.
1. Reach out
Send a quick inquiry and I’ll help you choose the perfect session and timing for your child.
2. Session Day
I will gently guide your child through the session while keeping things calm and unhurried. Some kids need a little more time to warm up, and that's completely fine.
"It was such a great experience, getting photos with Kelli! She was so kind and professional, and made my daughter and myself feel so at ease in her beautiful studio! We will surely be back!"
— Lindsey
Pop-Up Events
Pop-up Events involve 4 or more children (including your own). You will receive $50 off your child's session for hosting the Pop-up Event. Simply ask your friends, neighbors, or family members to join you, and enjoy a fun day! If your group includes 10 or more, your child will receive a complimentary session!
Benefits:
· $50 off your child's session or a FREE session
· Option to host in the comfort of your home or at the studio
· Flexible scheduling
Host an event in my studio or at your home
Frequently Asked Questions
q. What if my child is really difficult when it comes to taking photos?
We will not give up on a session. I promise to do everything I can to get the best portrait of your child. There is time built into your session for warming up and taking little breaks as needed. I will have toys to distract your child and I have lots of tricks up my sleeve. You can show up and trust the rest to me!
Q. what age is best for heirloom portraits?
These portraits are most suited for ages 6 months to 12 years. As long as babies are sitting up on their own, there is no wrong age. Heirloom sessions are wonderful for documenting milestones, and I hope to see your child many times throughout the years as they grow.
q. A family member has special needs. How can you help?
I love working with families of all kinds! I am a pediatric nurse with many years of experience, including medical and behavioral health settings. I want you and your child to know that I will always be respectful and accommodating. I'm also a CapABLE Certified photographer, trained to create a flexible and adaptable experience for each client I work with. All families deserve these timeless images to look back on!
q. does the session include all of my children?
Each session is for one child. I'd love to photograph each of yours — sessions can be scheduled back to back, and siblings together are available as an add-on for select sessions. If you have multiple children, ask me about Pop-up Events: when you bring 4 or more children together, you'll receive $50 off your child's session, or a complimentary session if your group is 10 or more.
ready to make some memories?
Let's Do This!
Let's capture your family just as you are right now — the beauty and chaos, and everything in between. I am a special needs friendly photographer, and families of all kinds are welcome.
send me a note