Part One

Best Photography Locations in Reading, Pennsylvania

Berks County, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, offers a rich tapestry of picturesque landscapes, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scenes. It's a photographer's paradise, where every corner presents a new opportunity to capture stunning visuals. This article explores the best locations in Berks County for photographers, whether you're a seasoned pro or a hobbyist with a camera.

1.      Reading Public Museum and Arboretum The Reading Public Museum

Surrounded by a lush arboretum, is a prime spot for photographers. The museum's architecture, coupled with the diverse plant life in the surrounding gardens, provides a delightful contrast of nature and culture. The scenic Wyomissing Creek, running through the arboretum, offers tranquil scenes perfect for nature photography.

If you wish to learn more about the Reading Art Museum, you can learn more here and on the Museums Homepage, here.

The Reading Art Museum: A Picturesque Venue for Wedding Portraits

The Reading Art Museum, nestled in the vibrant landscapes of Berks County, Pennsylvania, is renowned not only for its exceptional collection of art but also as a spectacular location for wedding portraits. With its elegant architecture, stunning gardens, and unique art installations, the museum provides a backdrop that can add a touch of sophistication and timeless beauty to any couple's special day.

Architectural Elegance and Artistic Backgrounds The museum's architecture, a blend of classic and contemporary design, offers a variety of aesthetic backdrops for wedding portraits. From the grandeur of its façades to the intricate details within, each aspect of the building adds a layer of sophistication to photographs. The presence of art pieces and sculptures provides a unique and cultured ambiance, ideal for couples who appreciate the fusion of art and history.

The Museum Gardens: A Natural Oasis Perhaps the most enchanting feature of the Reading Art Museum for wedding portraits is its gardens. These beautifully landscaped areas, filled with vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and serene water features, create a romantic and tranquil setting. The gardens change with the seasons, offering a myriad of colors and textures – from the fresh blooms of spring to the rich tones of autumn – ensuring that each portrait session is unique and memorable.

Capturing Moments by the Water The museum is situated near a scenic pond, providing an idyllic waterside setting for wedding portraits. The reflections of the sky and surrounding nature on the water's surface can create serene and romantic imagery. The gentle interplay of light and shadow around the pond and through the trees adds a magical touch to photographs.

Iconic Art Installations as Backdrops Unique to the Reading Art Museum are its various art installations and sculptures scattered throughout the grounds. These pieces of art offer creative and distinctive backdrops for wedding portraits, allowing for innovative and one-of-a-kind photo opportunities that stand out.

Versatile Photography Settings The museum's diverse environments, from its elegant interior spaces to its expansive outdoor landscapes, provide a range of settings for photographers to explore. Whether a couple prefers the classic look of indoor elegance or the natural charm of outdoor beauty, the museum caters to all preferences.

A Touch of Exclusivity and Privacy Unlike public parks or open venues, the Reading Art Museum can offer a sense of exclusivity and privacy for wedding portrait sessions. This allows for a more intimate and focused photography experience, free from the distractions of crowds or uninvited onlookers.

The Reading Art Museum is more than just a venue; it's a canvas for creating unforgettable wedding portraits. Its combination of architectural beauty, stunning gardens, and unique art installations makes it an ideal location for capturing the essence of a couple's love and commitment. For those seeking a venue that offers elegance, diversity, and a touch of artistic flair, the Reading Art Museum stands out as a premier choice in Berks County.

Gallery were images photographed by Elisabeth and Company, wherein the bridal portraits were photographed at the reading art museum

2.      Reading Pagoda

The Pagoda Overlooking the city of Reading, the Pagoda is a unique architectural wonder that's especially photogenic at sunset or during night time when it's illuminated against the dark sky. The view of the city from this vantage point is unparalleled, offering wide, sweeping shots of the urban landscape. You can view the pagoda from most of the city and beyond. It was originally purchased with the intention of having a luxury hotel, but unable to secure a liqueur license, due to safety concerns due to it’s location on a mountainside, it was donated to the city of reading for $1. Within the pagoda there is a cafe and the space can be rented for events. There are scenic views of the entire city from the pagoda, and it is often a place of congregation on holidays such as July 4th, where officially or perhaps better described as unofficially fireworks are set off by swarms of people celebrating American Independence.

As one of the best wedding photographers in Reading, Pennsylvania, we can recommend using the pagoda for bridal portraits if you are photographing within city limits, especially as it allows for cover if it happens to rain, or during non summer months when photographing brides in heels at the art museum is not as feasible on muddy ground, or during downpours.

The Reading Pagoda: An Enchanting Destination for Wedding Photography

Perched atop Mount Penn in Reading, Pennsylvania, the Reading Pagoda is not just an iconic landmark but also a captivating setting for wedding photography and portraits. With its unique architecture and panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, the Pagoda offers a blend of cultural charm and scenic beauty, making it a sought-after destination for couples on their special day.

Architectural Uniqueness The Reading Pagoda, built in 1908, stands as an architectural marvel with its distinct Japanese-style design. This seven-story structure, with its rich red and gold colors, creates a striking contrast against the Pennsylvania skyline. The Pagoda's unique design provides a backdrop that is both elegant and extraordinary, ideal for couples looking for something beyond traditional wedding photography.

Breathtaking Panoramic Views One of the Pagoda's most compelling features is the stunning panoramic view it offers. Perched on the mountainside, it provides a sweeping vista of the city of Reading and the lush countryside beyond. These expansive views create a dramatic and romantic setting for wedding portraits, particularly at sunset when the sky is ablaze with color.

Beautifully Landscaped Surroundings The grounds around the Reading Pagoda are beautifully landscaped with gardens and walking paths. The natural greenery and well-kept gardens add a serene and picturesque quality to wedding photos. The varying textures and colors of the flora provide a beautiful natural contrast to the wedding attire and add depth and interest to the photographs.

Intimate and Serene Atmosphere Despite being a well-known landmark, the Reading Pagoda offers an intimate and serene setting. The tranquility of the area, especially during the early mornings or late afternoons, allows for uninterrupted and peaceful photo sessions. This calm atmosphere is perfect for capturing the intimate moments and genuine emotions of the wedding couple.

Versatility in Photography The Pagoda and its surroundings offer a variety of photographic opportunities. From close-up portraits against the intricate details of the Pagoda’s structure to wide-angle shots embracing the expansive views, photographers can get creative with compositions. The changing light throughout the day also offers diverse moods and atmospheres for photography, from the soft light of dawn to the golden glow of dusk.

A Touch of Cultural Elegance The Pagoda adds a touch of cultural elegance to wedding photos. Its unique architecture and the story it holds as a historic landmark bring an element of depth and intrigue to wedding portraits. It’s particularly appealing for couples who want to incorporate a sense of history and culture into their photos.

The Reading Pagoda is a gem for wedding photography, offering a unique blend of architectural beauty, scenic vistas, and serene natural surroundings. It stands out as a distinctive and enchanting venue that promises to add a special flair to wedding portraits. For couples seeking a location that combines natural beauty with architectural charm, the Reading Pagoda in Berks County is an unrivaled choice.

The gallery are sample wedding images photographed at the Pagoda by Elisabeth and Company, showcasing a few views from the pagoda.

Lifestyle Photoshoot Gallery, or Product Photoshoot at the Reading Pagoda in Berks County by Elisabeth and Company, a photography and videography company based out of Wyomissing, Pennsylvania that focuses on both weddings, portraits, commercial, lifestyle, or any other photography. They are entering the destination wedding market and are building that portfolio currently.

Video available above is a walkthrough video of the Reading Pagoda. Video is POV but gives a good representation of the physical grounds. Part of what makes the location great for photography is the wide open views, and the limited telephoto views of the phone camera limit some of these views.

Video available above is a narrated view of the pagoda.

3. Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center

Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center A haven for nature lovers, Nolde Forest features dense woodlands, meandering streams, and a variety of trails. The contrast of light and shadow, the diverse flora and fauna, and the serene creeks make it a wonderful location for capturing the beauty of nature in all seasons. The hours that the mansion is open is not always convenient, and without direct access it is a very long hike, however when open, it is a beautiful location to explore both in terms of photography and personal enrichment.

In terms of photography, you can photograph both casual portraits or even wedding couple portraits, or bridal portraits. The biggest deterrence from doing such work is the time needed to travel to the location in order to photograph here, so unless the venue is nearby, it will be difficult to photograph in this location in terms of wedding photography, however the location mansion and the grounds is beautiful and worth the hike!

While there you can also consider viewing the Nolde Forest Sawmill, which is in the area.

You can learn more about Nolde Forest on wikepedia and on the government official park website here.

Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center: A Picturesque Venue for Wedding Portraits

Introduction Tucked away in the serene landscapes of Berks County, Pennsylvania, the Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center offers an enchanting backdrop for professional wedding portraits. With its rich woodlands, tranquil streams, and picturesque trails, this natural haven presents an idyllic setting for capturing the romance and beauty of a couple's special day.

A Natural Canvas for Romance Nolde Forest's 665 acres of deciduous woodlands and coniferous plantations create a lush, green canvas that is perfect for romantic wedding photography. The dense forest canopy provides soft, diffused light, ideal for creating flattering, natural-looking portraits. In every direction, the forest offers a serene and intimate backdrop that is both timeless and enchanting.

Diverse Scenic Locations Within Nolde Forest, couples will find a variety of scenic locations for their portraits:

• Forest Trails: Winding trails offer a sense of adventure and discovery, perfect for candid shots and romantic strolls.

• Creeks and Streams: The gentle babble of creeks and the serene presence of still water bodies provide a peaceful setting for reflective and intimate portraits.

• Historic Sawmill: Adding a rustic charm, the old sawmill on the property is a unique feature that lends an historic and romantic feel to photographs.

• Garden Areas: Manicured garden areas, with their blooms and greenery, offer a contrasting backdrop to the wild forest, ideal for more formal portraits.

Seasonal Beauty Nolde Forest changes with the seasons, each offering its own unique beauty. The lush greenery of spring and summer, the rich colors of fall foliage, and the pristine snow-covered landscapes of winter all provide stunning, natural backdrops for wedding portraits. The changing seasons also mean that the forest looks different at each visit, offering a variety of visual experiences.

Soft, Natural Lighting The dense tree canopy in Nolde Forest filters sunlight beautifully, creating soft, even lighting that is highly sought after in portrait photography. This natural diffuser minimizes harsh shadows and highlights, allowing for more flattering, evenly lit photographs.

A Sense of Serenity and Privacy Unlike more crowded and urban locations, Nolde Forest offers a sense of tranquility and privacy. This secluded setting allows couples to relax and be themselves, resulting in more natural and genuine portraits. Photographers can capture intimate moments without the interference of bystanders or the distractions of a busy setting.

Environmental Education Center as a Unique Feature The Environmental Education Center itself adds an educational and conservation-focused element to the venue. For couples who are nature enthusiasts or who value environmental conservation, this aspect of Nolde Forest adds an extra layer of meaning to their wedding portraits.

Conclusion Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center is not just a location, but a destination that offers a natural, serene, and beautifully varied backdrop for wedding portraits. Its combination of rustic charm, natural beauty, and tranquil privacy makes it an ideal setting for capturing the essence of a couple's love and commitment in a way that is both beautiful and meaningful. For those seeking a natural and enchanting setting in Berks County, Nolde Forest is a perfect choice.