#PittsburghMe: Meet Nick Koehler, Photojournalism Major

Meet Nick Koehler

Major/Program: Photojournalism
Graduation: May 2020
Scholarships: Academic
Hometown: Wexford, Pa.
High School: North Allegheny High School
Dream Job: Travel photographer / conservationist

"Sometimes things may seem difficult or hard, but if there is a will, there is a way. Always be yourself because that’s the most important thing. Develop your own style and be proud of it!"

Nick Koehler

Why did you transfer to Point Park?

I transferred to Point Park because I wasn’t getting what I wanted out of my last school. Point Park was on my original list of schools, but I initially chose another university. When I decided to transfer, Point Park was an easy decision for the Downtown opportunities, the campus and the talented students.

Tell us about your work as a photographer.

For my own photography business, I have shot more than 25 weddings and have traveled around the world to take photos. I’ve been to Italy, Mexico, Aruba, Acadia National Park, Yosemite National Park and San Francisco. I’ve had the opportunity to take photos for the Philadelphia Public Record and I was a marketing intern for Terra Design Studios. Currently, I'm an apprentice for the Enrollment Marketing Department at Point Park. All of these opportunities have helped shaped me into the photographer that I am today.

What's it like to see your work prominently displayed on Point Park’s social media accounts and website?

Along with the sheer excitement of seeing my work used and published throughout many channels, working with the Enrollment Marketing Department has been an amazing experience. Every single person has provided me with different opportunities that have benefited me and my photography. Through this position I've been able to network, make connections and gain knowlege that I will use throughout my career.

Where is the best spot to take photos in the city?

This one is tough because there are so many vantage points of Pittsburgh that show the city in unique way. A few of my favorite spots would be the Duquesne Incline, West End Overlook, North Shore and Point State Park. However, I’ve recently been doing more shoots Downtown and trying to get different things that haven’t been captured before.

What’s your favorite thing to do Downtown when the weather gets warm?

My favorite activity is to go to a cool vantage point and watch the sunrise or sunset. It gives the atmosphere a feeling of home. Of course, I love photographing it as well.

What advice would you give to incoming students?

The advice that I would give would be to keep going. Sometimes things may seem difficult or hard, but if there is a will, there is a way. Always be yourself because that’s the most important thing. Develop your own style and be proud of it!

#PittsburghMe: Meet Nick Koehler, Photojournalism Major Student Profile