Wonder of Childhood

Sunday, September 7, 2014

On Location: Portland, PA

I know, I know.. Portland?? Yes, Portland. If you've lived nearby Portland, you might think of it for  flooding troubles and a walking bridge to Jersey. But there's so much more!
Somehow, I've ended up shooting probably 80% of my engagement sessions in this little town, which boasts a vintage train station, waterfall and a wooded river front picnic area, to mention a few. Let's take a tour, shall we?
We'll start at the picnic grove next to the river, in any season it looks awesome!



Next we'll walk up to the walking bridge, this crosses from Portland, PA to Columbia, NJ. Columbia is pretty as well but we haven't ventured over there for a shoot yet. Cool things about the bridge:
 
It has an awesome view

 
Great for winter

 
...And rain
Next, the vintage train station. This cute little train station hasn't been in use for quite some time however it really adds character to the town, and some great backdrops for photos.


 
The train station has a great overhang as well in case it starts to rain as in this photo. 

Next, the town itself, which has a charming staircase that goes no where in a park with a tribute to the man who wrote "All I Want For Christmas is My Two Front Teeth". (I'm not kidding.)

 
There's some beautiful flowers and flowering trees around like this Red Bud.



There's some old-timey backdrops along the side roads like this brick number. 

 
There are a bunch of creeks about and also a gorgeous waterfall. Do I have a picture of that? Of course not. I'll get back to you.

Very near by is also the Delaware Water Gap Trailhead in New Jersey, probably a 10 minute drive and a $1.00 toll. But worth it.
Who is this location good for? 
Engagement, Senior, Children, Weddings, Family, People who want the best of both worlds of town and nature.

Pros:
Easy to get to, off of Route 80
Many options for photo spots in a small area
If you want in-town photos taken without an audience, this town is at times almost deserted
A playground nearby for kids to burn off steam after the session
Works for every season, every season is stunning here, even winter with no snow on the ground
Lots of free parking
A bagel shop in town (for the all important caffeine fix.. oh and a quick bite)
In a great location if you are an out of towner to go site seeing after your session
There are some great options for photos even in the rain

Cons:
This is a big one: Flooding! Portland has been flooding out for as long as I can remember, if there has been heavy rains lately, it's best to pick a better area. At the very least the wooded picnic area becomes one with the river. At worst, they close all of the surrounding roads. 
There are options for bathrooms, possibly for customers only
Food options in case the photo session leaves you famished, in Portland and Columbia

To book a photo shoot at this, or another location send me an email at Sabrinaschantzenphotography@gmail.com