Not sure where to take your photos? I’ve got you.
Here’s a list of some of my favorite session spots in and around New Braunfels, Austin, and San Antonio. Some of these are places I’ve photographed before and have example images for, and others are ones I either need more recent images at OR haven't shot at yet and would love to!
Browse through and let me know which one feels like a good fit for your session vibe.
i. SAN ANTONIO AREA
King William Street – Central San Antonio
Tree-lined sidewalks, vine-covered walls, and historic mansions with ornate iron gates give this spot a romantic, old-world feel. It’s perfect if you’re drawn to vintage charm and timeless architecture — think soft light, quiet corners, and a touch of elegance around every turn.
Great for: couples who love history, romantic bridal portraits, vintage-inspired sessions
Fee: None
Vibe: timeless, elegant, architectural
Mission San José – South Central San Antonio
With its sweeping stone arches, historic architecture, and soft, glowy light, Mission San José offers a stunning backdrop for dressier sessions. It’s a favorite among photographers for good reason — elegant, open, and effortlessly classic. Perfect for clients who want a bit of grandeur without the fuss.
Great for: bridals, engagement sessions with a formal look, timeless portraits
Fee: None
Vibe: clean, romantic, architectural
Landa Park – New Braunfels
Lush, green, and full of variety — Landa Park is a local favorite for its big trees, quiet trails, and natural beauty. Depending on the season (and how brave you’re feeling), there’s even the option to wade into the crystal-clear spring water — though fair warning: it’s cold!
Great for: family sessions, laidback couples, nature lovers
Fee: None
Vibe: peaceful, woodsy, playful
Cibolo Nature Center – Boerne
This spot has a little bit of everything — golden fields, winding trails, and towering cypress trees lining a scenic creek. While getting into the water has been off-limits recently due to safety concerns, we can still capture beautiful shots along the banks. It’s especially dreamy at golden hour when the light hits just right.
Great for: nature lovers, barefoot sessions, golden hour magic
Fee: $25 photography fee
Vibe: earthy, warm, peaceful
Wildseed Farms – Fredericksburg
A working flower farm that changes with the seasons — which means every session here feels fresh and unique. Whether it’s vibrant wildflowers in bloom or dreamy rows of greenery, there’s always something colorful to explore. Bonus: there’s also a plant shop and cute walking paths that add charm to the whole experience.
Great for: playful engagement sessions, families, springtime color lovers
Fee: None
Vibe: whimsical, floral, ever-changing
Landa Library – Central San Antonio
The historic exterior and shaded garden paths of this library make for a romantic, tucked-away setting. With ivy-covered walls, soft filtered light, and classic architecture, it’s a charming spot for sessions with a timeless feel. Note: the interior isn’t available for use, and bathroom access is limited — so plan outfit changes accordingly!
Great for: engagement sessions, romantic portraits, classic vibes
Fee: None
Vibe: quiet, elegant, historic
Eleven Hundred Collective – Central San Antonio
A beautiful natural-light studio tucked into the third floor of a historic downtown building (note: stairs only!). The space features a gray brick wall, clean white backdrops, tall windows, and colorful rolling backdrops — plus stylish props like chairs and stools to mix things up. It also has a private changing room, which is super convenient for outfit swaps mid-session.
Great for: indoor bridals, branding sessions, modern portraits
Fee: $60/hr Mon–Fri, $85/hr Sat–Sun (2-hour minimum)
Vibe: modern, editorial, versatile
The McNay Art Museum – Central San Antonio
Known for its stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, lush grounds, and striking sculptures, The McNay is one of the most picturesque spots in the city. The palm-lined pathways, colorful tile details, and open green spaces give it a refined yet vibrant feel. We’ll be shooting outdoors only, as interior access isn’t permitted — but trust me, the outside is more than enough.
Great for: elegant bridals, upscale engagement sessions, artsy vibes
Fee: $200 photography fee (outdoor use only)
Vibe: refined, colorful, artistic
Lindheimer Home – New Braunfels
A sweet, very small, whimsical little garden outside of a historic cottage near the downtown New Braunfels Plaza. I love love love this lovely little spot for a garden vibe with tons of beautiful textures and character. This spot gets particularly great light in the morning hours (as pictured here), but works well in the evening too.
Great for: whimsical engagement sessions, garden-vibe bridals, families
Fee: None
Vibe: wimsical, garden, floral
San Antonio Botanical Gardens – Central San Antonio
Endless variety in one stunning location — from desert landscapes and tropical greenhouses to manicured lawns and wildflower paths. The Botanical Garden offers curated beauty in every direction, with something blooming nearly year-round. It’s spacious, peaceful, and full of light — ideal for sessions that feel vibrant and refined.
Great for: floral-filled engagements, chic bridals, family sessions with a botanical twist
Fee: $50 photography fee
Vibe: colorful, lush, elevated
i. Austin Area
Sekrit Theater – East Austin
One of the most unique spots in Austin — and a personal favorite. The open-air greenhouse is pure magic for dreamy, elegant photos, while the rest of the property leans into quirky, eclectic charm with vintage bikes, a school bus, and art installations scattered throughout. Whether you're going for whimsical, romantic, or a little offbeat, this place delivers.
Great for: styled bridals, artsy engagements, sessions with personality
Fee: $150 rental fee
Vibe: dreamy, eclectic, artistic
McKinney Falls State Park – Southeast Austin
A versatile, nature-filled spot with something for every vibe — from rocky creek beds and small waterfalls to wide open green spaces and wild poppies in the spring. While the water features are popular, the real magic (in my opinion) is in the quiet fields and golden light that rolls in late in the day.
Great for: nature lovers, golden hour portraits, laidback engagements or families
Fee: $6 per adult (day pass)
Vibe: earthy, natural, peaceful
The Lumen Room – Central Austin
A minimal, natural-light studio with a simple white wall and one large window that lets in soft, even light. It’s perfect for when you want clean, distraction-free portraits with a modern look. The studio includes access to stylish chairs and props, plus a private bathroom for outfit changes.
Great for: clean, classic portraits, indoor engagements, branding sessions
Fee: $75 for 1 hour / $115 for 1.5 hours
Vibe: minimal, bright, modern
Tau Ceti Parking Garage – Central Austin
A hidden gem for those downtown skyline vibes. The rooftop offers clean lines, great open light, and a perfect view of Austin’s colorful Tau Ceti mural nearby. It’s a great option for a city-forward session that still feels minimal and modern.
Great for: urban engagement sessions, editorial portraits, city-loving couples
Fee: None (just standard parking costs)
Vibe: modern, bold, urban minimalism
UT Campus – Central Austin
Classic architecture, clean lines, and peaceful green spaces make the University of Texas campus a beautiful and versatile spot — especially for bridal portraits. With neutral backdrops and soft light bouncing off the historic buildings, it’s an easy choice for a session that feels polished but not overdone.
Great for: bridal sessions, formal portraits, timeless engagement looks
Fee: None
Vibe: classic, neutral, elegant
Zilker Botanical Garden – Central Austin
A lush, tucked-away garden in the heart of the city. With koi ponds, stone pathways, leafy tunnels, and charming garden structures, it’s a peaceful spot full of natural beauty. In spring, pops of color from blooming flowers add even more magic. It’s a great option for clients who want a serene, green backdrop with a little variety.
Great for: family sessions, romantic engagements, garden-inspired bridals
Fee: $50 photography fee (paid in advance)
Vibe: botanical, peaceful, romantic
South Congress – Central Austin
Colorful murals, retro storefronts, trendy cafés, and that classic Austin vibe — South Congress is perfect if you’re looking for something playful, bold, and full of personality. There’s a ton of variety within just a few blocks, from iconic photo ops to funky corners that feel totally unique.
Great for: fun-loving couples, branding sessions, urban family photos
Fee: None (just plan for metered street parking)
Vibe: vibrant, eclectic, full of Austin character
Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge – Central Austin
One of the best spots for sweeping downtown views, especially at golden hour. The Pfluger Bridge offers clean lines, skyline backdrops, and open sky — perfect for modern portraits with a sense of space and simplicity. Bonus: it's just a short walk from other downtown photo spots if you want to mix up the scenery.
Great for: city-loving couples, modern engagement sessions, minimal and scenic portraits
Fee: None
Vibe: airy, urban, modern
Laguna Gloria – Austin (West Side)
An elegant waterfront estate turned art museum, Laguna Gloria feels like a slice of Europe right in Austin. With manicured gardens, Mediterranean-inspired architecture, and a quiet view of the lake, it’s a favorite for romantic, high-end sessions. Availability can be a little tricky due to private events and rental blocks, but you can check their calendar here before booking.
Great for: elegant bridals, fine art engagement sessions, styled shoots
Fee: Typically $125–$150 photography fee (subject to change)
Vibe: romantic, refined, European-inspired
Bull Creek Park – Northwest Austin
A natural, slightly rugged spot with clear creek water, limestone cliffs, and winding trails. Bull Creek has that “just escaped the city” feel while still being close to town. Depending on recent rainfall, the water levels can vary — but even when low, the rocky textures and tree-lined paths make for beautiful backdrops.
Great for: adventurous couples, families with kids who love to explore, barefoot sessions
Fee: None
Vibe: earthy, playful, natural
Not seeing the spot? No worries — this list is just a starting point. I’m always open to new ideas, and if there’s a location that feels special to you (or something totally off the beaten path), I’d love to hear about it. Just send it my way and we’ll figure out if it’ll photograph well and fit your vision!