Simple Sophistication
One of the questions I'm asked most often is, "Where should we take our photos?"
The perfect location looks a little different for every family. Some love wide-open fields at sunset, while others picture splashing in a creek, wandering through a garden, or exploring downtown Austin.
If you're searching for the best Austin photo locations for a family, maternity, senior, or branding session , I hope this guide helps you find a place that feels like the perfect fit.
After photographing more than 1,700 families throughout Austin, I've learned that a great location is about much more than beautiful scenery. Every location in this guide is somewhere I've photographed many times and continue to recommend because it creates both beautiful images and a relaxed, enjoyable experience.
Beautiful, flattering light that photographs well throughout the session.
A variety of backgrounds that create a diverse gallery and tell a complete story.
Easy access and comfortable walking so the location works well for children, grandparents, & everyone in between.
An experience that's enjoyable, allowing you to explore, connect, & simply enjoy your time together.
Best For:
Family • Maternity • Seniors • Extended Family
Scenery:
Open Field • Lake Austin • 360 Bridge • Texas Grasses • Sunset Views
Best Seasons:
October–February (Closed March–September)
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour • Sunrise
Walking Required:
Light • 5 minute walk from parking
Parking:
Free
Dog Friendly:
Would not recommend, due to burrs.
Good to Know:
The field has seasonal burrs, so closed-toe shoes are a must.
The location is unavailable from March through September.
360 Bridge Field is one of my favorite locations for families who love wide-open spaces and beautiful sunset light. The field sits along Lake Austin with the iconic Pennybacker Bridge in the distance, creating an unmistakably Austin backdrop while still keeping the focus on your family.
One of my favorite things about this location is how much variety we can create in a single session. During golden hour, we use the open field and beautiful backlight to capture warm, natural images. As the sun drops lower, we finish near the bridge during blue hour when the light becomes soft and even, creating flattering portraits with one of Austin's most recognizable landmarks in the background. For sunrise sessions, we'll often photograph near the bridge first while the early morning light provides beautiful backlighting before moving into the field.
The landscape changes throughout the year, giving this location a different feel each season. During wetter months the grasses are lush and green, while drier months bring warm golden tones that create a classic Texas look.
Because of the large open spaces, this is one of my favorite locations for extended family sessions, giving everyone plenty of room to spread out while still creating beautiful backgrounds.
Families with any age children (toddlers to teens!), maternity sessions, seniors, and extended families looking for a relaxed outdoor setting
with plenty of space to explore.
Soft neutrals, earthy tones, denim, creams, sage green, dusty blue, and warm rust colors all photograph beautifully here.
Because the field contains seasonal burrs, I strongly recommend wearing comfortable closed-toe shoes. If you'd like to wear dressier shoes for your portraits, they're easy to change into once we arrive at the shooting area. I also recommend avoiding long dresses, as burrs tend to cling to the fabric while walking through the field.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: We save the bridge for the very end of sunset sessions because the soft blue-hour light is incredibly flattering and
creates some of my favorite portraits of the evening.
Best For:
Family • Maternity • A favorite for Seniors
• Extended Family • Personal Branding
Scenery:
Tall Native Grasses • Majestic Oak Trees • Rustic Wooden Fences • Historic Barn • Open Fields • Texas Sunset
Best Seasons:
Beautiful year-round
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour • Sunrise
Walking Required:
Light • Less than 5 minutes from parking
Parking:
Free
Dog Friendly:
Yes!
Good to Know:
This is one of Austin's most popular photo locations during peak fall season (late October through November). Even when it's busy, the property is spacious enough that we rarely have to wait for a shooting spot. If you've been looking for the perfect excuse to wear cowboy boots, this is it!
Commons Ford Ranch is one of my favorite locations for families and seniors who love a timeless Texas landscape. With rolling fields of tall native grasses, towering oak trees, rustic wooden fences, and a beautifully weathered barn, it offers incredible variety while still feeling cohesive throughout your gallery.
One of the things I love most about Commons Ford is how naturally it encourages connection. There is plenty of space for children to run, explore, and simply be themselves, while the wide-open scenery creates beautiful opportunities for both candid moments and more traditional family portraits. Whether we're photographing beneath the oak trees, along the rustic fences, or in the tall grasses as the sun begins to set, every area offers something a little different.
The landscape changes beautifully throughout the year. In spring and early summer, the grasses are lush and green, while late summer and fall bring warm golden tones that create a classic Texas feel. The historic barn adds beautiful texture and character without ever overpowering your portraits, making it one of my favorite places to add variety to a gallery.
Because of its spacious layout, Commons Ford is also one of my favorite locations for both extended family sessions and senior portraits. There's plenty of room for larger groups while still creating intimate, connected images. For seniors, I love how many completely different looks we can create in a single session—from open fields and rustic fences to majestic oak trees and the historic barn. Whether you're looking for something timeless, natural, or a little more rustic, this location offers endless possibilities without ever feeling repetitive.
Families with children of all ages, maternity sessions, high school and college seniors, and extended families looking for a classic Texas setting
with incredible variety and room to explore.
Earth tones, denim, creams, soft whites, olive green, dusty blue, warm rust, soft pinks bring out the rich colors in the tall grass, and muted floral patterns all photograph beautifully here. Cowboy boots are always a great choice and feel perfectly at home against the rustic fences, open fields, and historic barn.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: One of the reasons I recommend Commons Ford so often for senior sessions is the incredible variety we can create without ever leaving the property. In one session, we can capture open fields, towering oak trees, rustic fences, and the historic barn, or even walk down to Lake Austin to get a few photos on the water -giving you a gallery that feels diverse while still maintaining a timeless, cohesive look.
Best For:
Family • Maternity • Extended Family • Young Children
Scenery:
Open Field • Native Grasses • Tree-Lined Path • Mature Trees • Seasonal Wildflowers • Natural Texas Landscape • Some Cactus
Best Seasons:
Beautiful year-round
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour • Sunrise
Walking Required:
Less than 2 minutes
Parking:
Free
Dog Friendly:
Yes!
Good to Know:
Parking is located right next to the field, making this one of the easiest locations to access with young children or grandparents. Because this spot is a hidden gem, we almost always have the space to ourselves. It's also home to my annual VW Holiday Sessions each November, when the open field transforms into one of my favorite seasonal backdrops. Although it's a smaller location, it offers more variety than you might expect, allowing us to create a beautiful, diverse gallery without walking far.
River Place Field is one of my favorite hidden gems in Northwest Austin. While it's smaller than some of my other locations, that's exactly what makes it so special. Everything is just a short walk from the parking area, making it an easy, stress-free choice for families with young children while still offering plenty of variety throughout your session.
One of the things I love most about this location is its simplicity. The open field, tree-lined path, mature trees, and tall native grasses create a timeless backdrop that never feels distracting. A few native cactus add an unexpected touch of Texas charm, while the changing grasses give the landscape a beautiful look throughout the year. Because the scenery is so clean and natural, the focus stays exactly where it should—on your family and the connections you share.
Although the field itself is relatively small, it's surprisingly versatile. We can move between the open grasses, shaded pathways, mature trees, and seasonal textures to create a gallery that feels varied without spending the entire session walking from place to place. It's one of those locations that consistently photographs beautifully, no matter the season.
Another reason I love River Place Field is how peaceful it feels. Unlike many of Austin's more popular photo locations, we almost always have the space to ourselves, allowing your family to relax, explore, and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed or surrounded by other photographers.
Families with children of all ages, maternity sessions, and extended families looking for a timeless outdoor setting with beautiful light, easy accessibility, and plenty of room to connect.
Soft neutrals, creams, denim, sage green, olive, dusty blue, warm rust, soft pinks, and earthy tones photograph beautifully against the natural grasses and mature trees. Cowboy boots are always a fun choice, especially during the fall, while simple, classic outfits complement the timeless feel of this location.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: River Place Field is home to my annual VW Holiday Sessions each November, and for good reason. The clean, open field and beautiful natural light create the perfect backdrop for both seasonal portraits and timeless family photos all year long.
Best For:
Family • Maternity • Seniors • Extended Family
Scenery:
Open Field • Tall Native Grasses • Majestic Oak Trees • Tree-Lined Paths • Natural Texas Landscape • Sunset Backlight
Best Seasons:
Beautiful year-round
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour • Sunrise
Walking Required:
Light • 5 minutes from parking
Parking:
Free
Dog Friendly:
Yes!
Good to Know:
This location combines the beauty of a wide-open Texas field with easy accessibility. The short walk from the parking area is well worth it, and the spacious landscape allows us to create a wonderful variety of images throughout your session. This tends to be a busy spot in the fall, but is big enough that there is plenty of spcae for everyone! Beautiful wildflowers bloom here in late April. Wear closed-toes shoes.
Circle C Ranch is a beautiful choice for families and seniors who love the simplicity of an open Texas landscape. The expansive field, towering oak trees, and winding paths create a peaceful setting with plenty of room to explore while keeping the focus exactly where it belongs—on the people in your photographs.
One of the things I appreciate most about this location is the amount of variety we can create while maintaining its clean, natural feel. The open field provides beautiful backlit portraits during golden hour, while the mature trees and shaded paths add texture and depth throughout your gallery. It offers a more expansive landscape than River Place Field, making it a wonderful choice if you're looking for wide-open scenery with a timeless Texas feel.
Like many of my favorite outdoor locations, Circle C changes beautifully throughout the year. The native grasses transition from lush greens in the spring to warm golden tones later in the season, creating a stunning backdrop no matter when you visit. The towering oak trees and winding paths add just enough variety to create a gallery that feels diverse while maintaining a cohesive, natural look.
One of my favorite things about Circle C is how peaceful it feels. The open landscape allows families to relax, children to explore, and seniors to move naturally throughout the session, creating genuine moments against one of Austin's most beautiful natural settings.
Families with children of all ages, maternity sessions, high school and college seniors, and anyone looking for a spacious outdoor location with a timeless Texas feel.
Earth tones, creams, denim, sage green, olive, dusty blue, warm rust, and soft pinks all photograph beautifully against the natural grasses and mature oak trees. Because the grasses can grow quite tall throughout much of the year, I recommend wearing comfortable closed-toe shoes for walking through the field.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: If you love the simple beauty of an open field but want a little more room to explore than River Place Field offers, Circle C Ranch is a wonderful option. The larger landscape allows us to create a gallery with a little more variety while still keeping the timeless, natural look that so many families love.
⭐ One of My Favorites
Best For:
Family • Maternity • Seniors • Couples
Scenery:
Expansive Bluebonnet Fields • Lake Travis Shoreline • Rolling Hills • Native Wildflowers • Texas Sunset Views
Best Seasons:
Spring (Bluebonnet Season) • Early Summer • Fall
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour • Sunrise
Walking Required:
Light • 5 minute walk from marking
Parking:
$5 per adult (children 12 and under free).
Dog Friendly:
Yes!
Good to Know:
Muleshoe Bend is about an hour's drive from Northwest Austin, but it's absolutely worth the trip—especially during bluebonnet season. The sprawling fields of bluebonnets along the shoreline create one of the most spectacular backdrops in Central Texas. Although it can be busy during peak bloom, the park is so expansive that we can almost always find beautiful, uncrowded areas to photograph. Even outside of bluebonnet season, the wide-open landscape, gorgeous evening backlight, and peaceful setting make this one of my favorite locations for timeless outdoor portraits.
Muleshoe Bend is one of the most breathtaking photo locations in Central Texas and easily one of my favorite places to photograph families each spring. If you've ever dreamed of portraits surrounded by endless fields of bluebonnets, this is the location. The sprawling wildflowers, rolling hills, Lake Travis shoreline, and beautiful golden light create a setting that feels both iconic and unmistakably Texan.
While Muleshoe Bend is best known for its spectacular bluebonnet season, it's much more than just a wildflower field. The park is incredibly expansive, allowing us to create a gallery filled with variety while still maintaining a cohesive, natural feel. During golden hour, the warm backlight filters through the flowers and grasses, creating some of the most beautiful light you'll find anywhere around Austin.
One of the things I appreciate most about this location is its size. Although it becomes popular during peak bluebonnet season, the park is so large that we can almost always find quiet areas away from the crowds. Instead of feeling rushed, your family has plenty of room to explore, play, and simply enjoy the experience together.
Even after the bluebonnets have faded, Muleshoe Bend remains a beautiful place for portraits. The expansive fields, rolling landscape, and peaceful setting create timeless images throughout much of the year, making it a wonderful choice for families who love wide-open Texas scenery.
Families with children of all ages, maternity sessions, and high school or college seniors looking for one of the most spectacular
outdoor photo locations in Central Texas.
Soft neutrals, creams, light blues, sage green, dusty pink, lavender, and soft yellows all photograph beautifully among the bluebonnets. Light, flowing fabrics complement the movement of the wildflowers and create a soft, timeless look. Cowboy boots are always a fun choice and fit naturally with the Texas landscape. Because we'll be walking through fields, I recommend wearing comfortable closed-toe shoes while moving between locations and changing into dressier shoes for portraits if you'd like.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: Bluebonnet season is one of the shortest photography seasons of the year, typically lasting just two to three weeks. I begin booking Muleshoe Bend sessions each February, and dates often fill before the flowers reach their peak. If bluebonnet portraits are on your family's wish list, I recommend reserving your session early so we can be ready as soon as the blooms arrive.
⭐ One of My Favorites
Best For:
Family • Maternity • Extended Family • Seniors
Scenery:
Texas Grasses • Bluebonnets • Seasonal Wildflowers • Modern Bridge • Tree-Lined Horizon • Creek Views
Best Seasons:
Spring (Bluebonnets & Wildflowers ⭐) • Early Summer • Fall
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour • Sunrise
Walking Required:
5-10 minute walk depending on where you find parking
Parking:
Free
Dog Friendly:
Yes!
Good to Know:
Spring is by far the most popular time to visit Brushy Creek, especially during bluebonnet season. Parking can fill quickly on weekend evenings, so I often recommend weekday sessions whenever possible. Give yourself a little extra time in case you have to park in the back lot. The beautiful evening light and spectacular wildflowers make the extra planning well worth it.
Brushy Creek Park in Cedar Park is one of my favorite spring photography locations in the Austin area. While it's beautiful throughout much of the year, this location truly shines during bluebonnet season, when the field transforms into a sea of vibrant blue followed by colorful wildflowers later in the spring. It's one of my favorite places to capture the beauty of a Texas spring without venturing too far from Austin.
One of the things I love most about Brushy Creek Park is the variety we can create in a relatively compact area. The expansive field of native grasses provides beautiful open backdrops, while the tree line creates gorgeous golden backlight as the sun begins to set. A modern pedestrian bridge introduces clean architectural lines for a completely different look, and the nearby creek reflects the soft blue tones of the evening sky, creating beautiful portraits during the final moments of daylight.
Although the creek gives the park its name, the open field is really the star of this location. The combination of bluebonnets, seasonal wildflowers, native grasses, and mature trees creates a timeless Texas landscape that feels both expansive and inviting. It's one of those rare locations where nearly every direction offers a beautiful backdrop.
Brushy Creek Park is also one of my favorite locations for extended family sessions. The open space provides plenty of room for larger groups while still allowing us to create intimate family portraits throughout the session. Whether you're visiting during wildflower season or another time of year, this location offers beautiful light, wonderful variety, and a relaxed setting that photographs beautifully.
Families with children of all ages, maternity sessions, extended families, and high school or college seniors looking for beautiful spring
wildflowers and a timeless Texas landscape.
Soft neutrals, creams, light blues, sage green, dusty pink, lavender, soft yellows, and earthy tones photograph beautifully among the bluebonnets and seasonal wildflowers. Light, flowing fabrics complement the movement of the grasses, while classic denim adds a timeless Texas feel.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: Bluebonnet season is incredibly popular at Brushy Creek Overlook, especially on weekends. If your schedule allows, I highly recommend choosing a weekday evening session. Not only is parking much easier, but you'll also enjoy a more relaxed experience with fewer people in the background of your photos.
Best For:
Family • Maternity • Seniors • Extended Family • Outdoor Newborn
Scenery:
Limestone Creek • Towering Trees • Natural Rock Formations • Native Texas Plants • Rustic Fences • Winding Trails
Best Seasons:
Spring • Summer • Early Fall
Best Time of Day:
⭐ Golden Hour • Sunrise
Walking Required:
Easy 2 minutes
Parking:
Free
Dog Friendly:
Yes
Good to Know:
Bull Creek is beautiful throughout much of the year, but it truly shines in spring, summer, and early fall. If you're open to getting your feet wet near the end of your session, that's when some of the most magical images happen. The limestone can be uneven in places, so comfortable shoes are recommended for getting to our favorite spots.
Located in northwest Austin, Bull Creek is easily one of my favorite places to photograph families. If I had to choose just one location for its incredible variety, this would be it. Within a relatively short walk, we can create a gallery that feels as though it was photographed in several completely different locations.
The creek is surrounded by towering trees, dramatic limestone formations, winding natural trails, and an incredible variety of native Texas plants that create beautiful backdrops throughout the year. Rustic fences, textured limestone, and towering cliffs add depth and character, while the flowing water reflects the soft evening light, creating a peaceful, timeless feel that's hard to find anywhere else.
One of the things I love most about Bull Creek is how naturally it encourages connection. Children love exploring the trails, climbing on the limestone rocks, and eventually splashing in the shallow creek. By the end of the session, everyone has forgotten about the camera, and that's when the most genuine smiles, laughter, and interactions begin to unfold.
The final moments of a Bull Creek session are often my favorite. If you're willing to kick off your shoes and step into the water, the creek becomes the perfect backdrop for playful family moments and some of the most memorable images of the evening. For maternity sessions, I also have several flowing dresses available that photograph beautifully in the water, allowing us to create serene, one-of-a-kind portraits without you having to get your own clothing wet.
Bull Creek is also one of my favorite senior locations. The incredible variety of scenery—from dramatic limestone cliffs and lush greenery to winding trails and reflective water—creates a gallery with so much depth and personality. It's easy to capture everything from classic portraits to bold, artistic images without ever feeling like we're repeating the same backdrop.
Whether you're celebrating a growing family, welcoming a new baby, or documenting your senior year, Bull Creek offers a combination of variety, beautiful light, and natural adventure that keeps me coming back season after season.
Families with adventurous children, maternity sessions, high school and college seniors, and extended families who are comfortable walking on natural terrain. If you're looking for the greatest variety of scenery in a single location, Bull Creek is hard to beat.
I generally recommend soft, muted tones for Bull Creek. Creams, light blues, sage green, soft blush, and warm neutrals create beautiful contrast against the vibrant greens of the trees and native plants. During the fall, earthy colors like rust, camel, chocolate brown, and olive complement the landscape beautifully while still allowing your family to remain the focus of the images.
If you're planning to end your session in the creek, barefoot photographs always feel natural here. For maternity sessions, I also have a selection of flowing dresses that photograph beautifully in the water, so you can create stunning creek portraits without getting your own clothing wet.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: If you're open to it, save the creek for the end of your session. Once everyone kicks off their shoes and starts splashing in the water, the pressure disappears, the laughter becomes genuine, and that's often when my favorite images of the evening are created.
⭐ One of My Favorites
Best For:
Family • Maternity • Extended Family • Seniors
Scenery:
Tree-Lined Trails • Lake Austin Inlet • Towering Trees • Natural Woodland • Fallen Log Benches • Lush Greenery
Best Seasons:
Spring • Summer • Fall (⭐ for about one week in November the colors are spectacular)
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour • Sunrise
Walking Required:
Light • Short downhill walk from the parking lot
Parking:
Free
Dog Friendly:
Yes!
Good to Know:
The Woodlands at River Place is one of Austin's best-kept secrets. It's almost never crowded, making it a wonderful choice for families looking for a quiet, relaxed experience. The walk from the parking lot is short but downhill, so keep that in mind if anyone in your group has limited mobility.
Tucked away in northwest Austin, The Woodlands at River Place is one of those locations that feels like a hidden escape from the city. Surrounded by towering trees and nestled beside a peaceful inlet off Lake Austin, it offers a completely different look from Austin's open fields and parks.
One of my favorite things about this location is the incredible quality of light. The tree canopy filters the evening sun beautifully, creating soft, glowing backlight and a peaceful atmosphere that's perfect for natural, emotion-filled portraits. As we wander along the winding trail, every turn offers a new backdrop—from lush greenery and towering trees to weathered fallen logs that have naturally become rustic benches.
Although the walk from the parking lot is short, stepping onto the trail feels like entering another world. The quiet surroundings and secluded setting make sessions feel relaxed and unhurried, allowing families to focus on spending time together instead of worrying about who's watching nearby.
The combination of beautiful light, rich textures, and natural variety makes this one of my favorite locations for maternity sessions and seniors as well. The wooded setting creates depth and intimacy while the nearby water adds a subtle, tranquil element that beautifully complements the landscape.
If you're looking for something different from Austin's fields and wildflowers, The Woodlands at River Place offers a timeless, peaceful setting that feels both unique and unforgettable.
Families with children of all ages, maternity sessions, and high school or college seniors looking for a quiet, wooded setting with
beautiful light and a little more privacy.
Earth tones, creams, soft blues, olive green, rust, camel, and warm neutrals photograph beautifully against the rich greens and natural wood textures. Flowing dresses and layered outfits complement the peaceful woodland setting, while avoiding bright neon colors helps keep the focus on your family.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: If your family loves a little adventure but doesn't want a long hike, this is one of my favorite hidden gems. The walk is short, the scenery is incredibly diverse, and because it's rarely crowded, sessions here feel peaceful from beginning to end.
Best For:
Families • High School & College Seniors
Scenery:
Wooded Trails • Limestone Creek • Towering Trees • Natural Rock Formations • Graffiti Tunnel • Creek Crossings • Native Texas Landscape
Best Seasons:
Spring • Fall • Summer
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour • Sunrise
Walking Required:
Moderate • Several short hikes throughout the session •About a 7 minute walk from the parking lot
Parking:
Free
Dog Friendly:
Yes!
Good to Know:
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park, located in North Austin near Pflugerville, is perfect for families who enjoy a little adventure. We'll cover more ground than at many of my other locations, but the incredible variety of scenery makes every step worthwhile.
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is one of the most unique photography locations in North Austin. If you're looking for a session that feels adventurous and offers incredible variety, this is one of my favorite places to recommend.
The park features winding wooded trails, towering trees, dramatic limestone formations, shallow creek crossings, and beautiful pockets of soft evening light around every turn. Because we're willing to explore a bit, it feels like photographing in several different locations during one session.
One of my favorite surprises at Walnut Creek is the colorful graffiti tunnel. While the rest of the park is completely natural, this unexpected urban backdrop adds a fun, artistic twist to the gallery and creates images that are completely different from anything else in Austin. It pairs beautifully with the surrounding woods and creek, giving your final gallery an amazing mix of natural and modern scenery.
Despite being such a large park, Walnut Creek rarely feels crowded. The extensive trail system allows us to spread out, creating a relaxed experience where kids can explore, dogs are welcome, and families can simply enjoy being together.
Because the trails include uneven terrain and several short hikes, I typically recommend Walnut Creek for families with older children, tweens, teens, or younger kids who love to explore. It's also one of my favorite locations for senior sessions thanks to the incredible variety and creative possibilities around every corner.
Families with adventurous children, tweens, and teens, as well as high school and college seniors looking for a gallery filled with variety, personality, and a mix of natural and urban scenery.
Soft earth tones, creams, olive green, denim, rust, camel, navy, and warm neutrals photograph beautifully against the park's rich greenery and limestone. Since we'll be walking on natural trails, I recommend comfortable shoes.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: Wear shoes you're comfortable hiking in! We'll explore several beautiful areas throughout the park, and the variety is absolutely worth the extra walking. If you're up for a little adventure, Walnut Creek rewards you with one of the most diverse galleries of any location I photograph.
Best For:
Family • Maternity • Extended Family • Seniors
Scenery:
Limestone Formations • Water • Open Fields • Wildflowers (Spring)
• Mature Trees
Best Seasons:
Spring • Early Summer • Fall
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour
Walking Required:
Moderate
Parking:
Easy Parking ($6 per person 13 and up; 12 and under free)
Dog Friendly:
Yes!
Good to Know:
The upper area of McKinney Falls offers a beautiful variety of scenery in one location, including limestone, water, wooded trails, and an open field that often fills with wildflowers in the spring. Some walking is required between photo spots, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
McKinney Falls offers a little bit of everything. Within a short walk, we can photograph along the limestone creek, among towering trees, and in open fields that glow beautifully during golden hour.
One of my favorite features is the upper field, which often comes alive with wildflowers in the spring. It's a beautiful contrast to the rocky creek area and gives your gallery a surprising amount of variety.
Although it's a bit farther from my home than many of the locations I photograph regularly, it's absolutely worth considering if you live in South Austin or simply love the natural beauty of this part of the city.
Families looking for a natural setting with lots of variety, seniors wanting both creek and field portraits, maternity sessions, and anyone living in South Austin who prefers a location closer to home.
Earthy, timeless colors complement the natural surroundings beautifully. Cream, sage, olive, dusty blue, rust, camel, and warm neutrals all photograph wonderfully against the limestone and greenery. In spring, soft pastels also pair beautifully with the seasonal wildflowers.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: If you'd love both creek and field images, plan on a little extra walking between locations. The variety is well worth it, and you'll end up with a gallery that feels like it was photographed in multiple places.
📍 Address: 2905 Pearce Rd, Austin, TX 78730 (or wherever your boat is docked)
Best For:
Families • Tweens & Teens • Active Families
Scenery:
Lake Austin • Pennybacker Bridge • Tree-Lined Shoreline • Open Water • Golden Sunsets • Waterfront Homes
Best Seasons:
⭐ Summer • Early Fall
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour Only
Walking Required:
None
Parking:
At your preferred marina or boat launch
Dog Friendly:
Yes (if your boat welcomes them!)
Good to Know:
These sessions take place aboard your family's boat on beautiful Lake Austin. We'll spend the evening cruising the lake, creating a mix of relaxed family portraits and candid moments while documenting whatever your family loves to do together—whether that's surfing, tubing, swimming, or simply enjoying a sunset cruise.
Some of my favorite family sessions have happened on Lake Austin because they're about so much more than taking pictures—they're about preserving the traditions that make your family yours.
Instead of standing in one location for an hour, we'll spend the evening out on the water, capturing your family exactly as you naturally spend your summer evenings. We'll start with relaxed portraits while everyone is fresh, then let the adventure unfold. Whether your kids are wake surfing, tubing, jumping into the water, or laughing together on the back of the boat, those genuine moments become the heart of your gallery.
One of my favorite parts of photographing on Lake Austin is the incredible perspective of the Pennybacker Bridge. From the water, it creates a uniquely Austin backdrop that instantly places your family's memories in one of the city's most iconic settings.
As the sun begins to set, the lake transforms. Golden light reflects across the water while the tree-lined shoreline and waterfront homes create beautiful scenery in every direction. Every session feels different because it's built around your family's personality and favorite ways to spend time together.
Families with tweens and teens, families who spend their summers on Lake Austin, and anyone wanting photographs that capture both beautiful portraits and the fun of life on the water.
Lake sessions are the perfect excuse to embrace bright, cheerful summer colors. Shades of turquoise, coral, cobalt blue, sunny yellow, crisp white, and other vibrant tones photograph beautifully against the deep blue water and lush green shoreline. If your family plans to surf, tube, or swim, coordinate your swimsuits just as thoughtfully as your outfits—they'll likely become part of your story.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: If your family plans to surf or tube, let the kids know we'll probably only do a few quick runs. My goal is to capture the excitement without spending the entire session behind the boat. That way, we can make the most of golden hour and create a gallery with lots of variety—from relaxed family portraits to all the fun on the water.
📍 Address: 4370 Mansfield Dam Park Road (or wherever your boat is docked)
Best For:
Families • Tweens & Teens • Active Families
Scenery:
Lake Travis • Open Water • Limestone Cliffs • Rocky Shoreline • Golden Sunsets • Texas Hill Country
Best Seasons:
⭐ Summer • Early Fall
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour Only
Walking Required:
None
Parking:
At your preferred marina or boat launch
Dog Friendly:
Yes (if your boat welcomes them!)
Good to Know:
These sessions take place aboard your family's boat on beautiful Lake Travis. We'll spend the evening exploring the lake while creating a mix of relaxed family portraits, candid moments, and action shots of whatever your family enjoys most—whether that's surfing, tubing, swimming, or simply soaking in a Texas sunset together.
Lake Travis offers a completely different feel from anywhere else I photograph. With its wide-open water, dramatic limestone cliffs, and rolling Hill Country views, every session feels adventurous while still capturing the relaxed spirit of a Texas summer.
I love beginning the evening with family portraits while the light is soft and everyone is together. From there, we'll let the session unfold naturally as your family spends time doing what you love most. Whether that's wake surfing, tubing, jumping off the back of the boat, or simply enjoying the ride, my goal is to document the genuine moments that make your family unique.
One of my favorite things about Lake Travis is its incredible sense of space. The expansive views and glowing sunsets create a breathtaking backdrop, while the changing shoreline gives us beautiful variety throughout the evening. Every turn offers a new perspective, making each gallery feel fresh and one of a kind.
These sessions are less about posing and more about preserving the joy, laughter, and traditions that define your family's summers together.
Families with tweens and teens, active families who spend time on Lake Travis, and anyone wanting photographs that capture both the beauty of the Texas Hill Country and the memories made on the water.
Bright, cheerful colors photograph beautifully against the deep blue water and warm limestone shoreline. Turquoise, coral, cobalt blue, sunny yellow, crisp white, and other vibrant summer tones create a fun, energetic look that perfectly complements a day on the lake. If surfing or tubing is part of your session, coordinate your swimsuits with the rest of your outfits for a polished gallery from beginning to end.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: If your family plans to surf or tube, let everyone know we'll probably keep the action to just a few quick runs. My goal is to capture the excitement while still leaving plenty of time for beautiful portraits, candid moments, and all the incredible scenery Lake Travis has to offer before the sun sets.
Best For:
Families • Seniors • Maternity • Headshots
Scenery:
Historic Villa • Italian Architecture • Lake Austin Views • Formal Gardens • Aqua Velvet Couch • Stone Staircases
Best Seasons:
⭐ Spring • Fall • Winter
Best Time of Day:
Mid-Morning
Walking Required:
Light • Uneven stone pathways
Parking:
Free, but small parking lot
Dog Friendly:
No
Good to Know:
Photography sessions at Mayfield Park require a $50 permit, which can only be reserved 30 days in advance. While reservations are usually easy to secure, weekend dates in October and November tend to be the busiest. The park features uneven stone pathways and active wildlife, including free-roaming peacocks and koi ponds, making it a better fit for some families than others.
Mayfield Park feels like stepping into a hidden garden tucked away in the heart of Austin. With its historic stone cottage, beautifully landscaped gardens, lily ponds, and wandering peacocks, it offers a timeless setting that's unlike anywhere else in the city.
One of the things that makes Mayfield so special is its personality. The resident peacocks often stroll through the gardens, adding a playful and unmistakably Austin touch to your gallery. Combined with the charming stone architecture and lush greenery, the park creates photographs that feel elegant, relaxed, and full of character.
Although the property is relatively small, it offers an impressive variety of backdrops within a short walk. From ivy-covered walls and winding garden paths to peaceful ponds and quiet corners beneath towering trees, every area has its own charm.
Because of the uneven stone walkways and natural distractions throughout the gardens, I typically recommend Mayfield for families with children who enjoy exploring and are comfortable around animals. If your little one tends to be distracted by wildlife—or might be startled by a peacock's surprisingly loud call—another location may be a better fit.
Families looking for a classic garden setting, maternity sessions, and seniors wanting timeless portraits with a blend of historic architecture and lush greenery.
Soft, romantic colors complement the gardens beautifully. Cream, sage, dusty blue, blush, soft florals, and warm neutrals photograph especially well against the stone architecture and vibrant greenery. Flowing dresses and classic, timeless outfits fit this location perfectly.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: If your children absolutely love animals, they'll probably think this location is magical. If they're easily distracted by wildlife—or sensitive to unexpected noises—you may enjoy one of my quieter locations instead. The peacocks are beautiful, but they definitely like to make themselves known!
⭐ One of My Favorites
Best For:
Families • Maternity • Seniors
Scenery:
Historic Stone Cottage • Formal Gardens • Lily Ponds • Koi Fish • Peacocks • Stone Pathways • Towering Trees
Best Seasons:
Year-round beauty
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour • Sunrise
Walking Required:
Moderate • Several short hikes throughout the session
Parking:
Free
Dog Friendly:
Yes!
Good to Know:
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park, located in North Austin near Pflugerville, is perfect for families who enjoy a little adventure. We'll cover more ground than at many of my other locations, but the incredible variety of scenery makes every step worthwhile.
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is one of the most unique photography locations in North Austin. If you're looking for a session that feels adventurous and offers incredible variety, this is one of my favorite places to recommend.
The park features winding wooded trails, towering trees, dramatic limestone formations, shallow creek crossings, and beautiful pockets of soft evening light around every turn. Because we're willing to explore a bit, it feels like photographing in several different locations during one session.
One of my favorite surprises at Walnut Creek is the colorful graffiti tunnel. While the rest of the park is completely natural, this unexpected urban backdrop adds a fun, artistic twist to the gallery and creates images that are completely different from anything else in Austin. It pairs beautifully with the surrounding woods and creek, giving your final gallery an amazing mix of natural and modern scenery.
Despite being such a large park, Walnut Creek rarely feels crowded. The extensive trail system allows us to spread out, creating a relaxed experience where kids can explore, dogs are welcome, and families can simply enjoy being together.
Because the trails include uneven terrain and several short hikes, I typically recommend Walnut Creek for families with older children, tweens, teens, or younger kids who love to explore. It's also one of my favorite locations for senior sessions thanks to the incredible variety and creative possibilities around every corner.
Families with adventurous children, tweens, and teens, as well as high school and college seniors looking for a gallery filled with variety, personality, and a mix of natural and urban scenery.
Soft earth tones, creams, olive green, denim, rust, camel, navy, and warm neutrals photograph beautifully against the park's rich greenery and limestone. Since we'll be walking on natural trails, I recommend comfortable shoes.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: Wear shoes you're comfortable hiking in! We'll explore several beautiful areas throughout the park, and the variety is absolutely worth the extra walking. If you're up for a little adventure, Walnut Creek rewards you with one of the most diverse galleries of any location I photograph.
⭐ One of My Favorites
Best For:
Families • Maternity • Seniors
Scenery:
Glass Greenhouse • Vintage Architecture • Black-and-White Checkered Floor • Vintage Cars • Vintage Bicycles • Mature Trees • Hidden Piano • Rustic Doors
• Eclectic Details
Best Seasons:
Mid-April through Mid-November
Best Time of Day:
1½–2 Hours Before Sunset
Walking Required:
Light
Parking:
Street parking in front of site
Dog Friendly:
No
Good to Know:
The Sekrit Theater requires a $135 reservation fee for a one-hour photography session. Fall weekends book quickly, so I recommend reserving your date as early as possible. Reservations are rain or shine, and because of the venue's popularity, they generally cannot be rescheduled for weather. During the warmer months, don't forget to bring bug spray!
The Sekrit Theater is one of Austin's most unique photography venues. Hidden behind unassuming gates, it feels like stepping into a secret world where every corner offers something unexpected.
The property's iconic glass greenhouse is undoubtedly the centerpiece, with its striking architecture and classic black-and-white checkered floor creating one of the most recognizable backdrops in Austin. But what makes this venue truly special is everything beyond the greenhouse.
The eclectic grounds are filled with creative surprises—from vintage bicycles and classic cars to an old school bus tucked beneath the trees and even a weathered piano hidden among the landscape. Every area has its own personality, allowing us to create a gallery that's full of variety while still feeling cohesive.
I especially love photographing seniors here because the venue has such a fun, editorial feel. It's also beautiful for maternity sessions and families looking for something more distinctive than a traditional park. Whether we're capturing elegant portraits inside the greenhouse or playful moments exploring the property's hidden treasures, every session feels a little different and completely one of a kind.
Families, maternity sessions, and high school or college seniors who want a distinctive location that's equal parts elegant and whimsical. The Sekrit Theater offers a creative mix of iconic architecture, eclectic details, and unforgettable scenery for a gallery that's truly one of a kind.
The Sekrit Theater pairs beautifully with soft neutrals, earthy tones, muted jewel tones, linen textures, and flowing fabrics. Dresses with movement and timeless, classic outfits complement the greenhouse and vintage architecture without competing for attention.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: Because your reservation is rain or shine, it's important to choose a date carefully and keep an eye on the forecast. I also recommend bringing bug spray during the warmer months and arriving ready to start on time so we can make the most of your one-hour reservation.
⭐ One of My Favorites
Best For:
Families • Maternity • ⭐ Seniors
Scenery:
Historic Texas Buildings • Western Storefronts • Vintage Cars • Weathered Wood • Front Porches • Open Field
Best Seasons:
Year-Round
Best Time of Day:
⭐ Golden Hour • Sunrise
Walking Required:
Light
Parking:
Free On-Site
Dog Friendly:
No
Good to Know:
Photography sessions require a $70 reservation fee for a one-hour session. Star Hill Ranch can take a little while to respond to booking requests, so I recommend planning ahead. Weeknight sessions are usually the easiest to reserve, while weekends can be limited due to weddings and private events—especially during the busy spring and fall wedding seasons.
If you're looking for a location that's full of Texas character, Star Hill Ranch is one of my absolute favorites.
Originally built as a movie studio, the property feels like stepping onto the set of an old Texas town. Historic storefronts, weathered wood, rustic fences, vintage cars, and charming front porches create an incredible variety of backdrops, all within a short walk.
One of the things I love most about Star Hill Ranch is its texture. Every building has its own personality, from peeling paint and reclaimed wood to antique architectural details that photograph beautifully in the evening light. The result is a gallery with warmth, depth, and a timeless western feel that you simply can't find anywhere else around Austin.
Despite its rustic character, the location feels polished rather than overly themed. Whether we're photographing a playful family, an expecting couple, or a high school senior, the variety of settings allows us to create images that feel authentic, relaxed, and uniquely Texan.
High school and college seniors who want something completely different from a traditional park absolutely love Star Hill Ranch. It's also a beautiful choice for families and maternity sessions looking for authentic Texas charm, rich texture, and a rustic western feel.
Star Hill Ranch pairs beautifully with warm neutrals, denim, earth tones, olive, rust, cream, and soft blues. Flowy dresses, boots, linen, denim jackets, and classic western-inspired touches complement the historic buildings without feeling like a costume. The textured wood and vintage architecture make almost every color pop beautifully.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: If you're hoping for a weekend session, I recommend reaching out as early as possible. Weddings and private events often reserve the property during the spring and fall, so weeknight sessions usually offer the most flexibility—and beautiful golden-hour light.
Best For:
Families • Seniors • Branding • Headshots
Scenery:
Butterfly Bridge • Austin Skyline • Historic Power Plant • White Steel Architecture • Colorful Murals • Modern Buildings • Urban Walkways
Best Seasons:
⭐ Year-Round
Best Time of Day:
Sunrise (Highly Recommended)
Walking Required:
Moderate
Parking:
Seaholm District Garage (Trader Joe's validates parking if you're planning to grab a few groceries afterward! Otherwise, parking is approximately $10/hour.)
Dog Friendly:
Yes
Good to Know:
Photography sessions at Seaholm require advance permission, which is free but can take up to one week to receive. Morning sessions offer the most beautiful light, cooler temperatures, and much quieter sidewalks than evenings, making them my favorite time to photograph here.
If you're drawn to a clean, modern aesthetic, Seaholm District is one of my favorite places to photograph in Austin.
What I love most about Seaholm is the incredible variety we can create within just a few blocks. The historic Seaholm Power Plant provides striking white steel architecture, while nearby you'll find modern buildings with subtle pops of color, textured steel walls, and city streets that create a polished urban feel. We can even incorporate pockets of greenery along the way, giving your gallery a beautiful balance of natural and architectural elements.
One of my favorite places to begin is Butterfly Bridge just after sunrise. As the sun comes up behind the downtown skyline, the bridge offers a simple, modern backdrop with the city quietly waking up around us. It's one of those views that instantly says "Austin" without feeling overly busy or touristy.
Although many people assume sunset is the best time downtown, I almost always recommend a morning session here. The light is softer and more flattering, the sidewalks are noticeably quieter, and we have much more freedom to move around and photograph without crowds. The result is a gallery that feels fresh, sophisticated, and unmistakably Austin.
Families looking for a modern downtown feel, high school and college seniors wanting a stylish urban backdrop, and branding clients who love clean architecture, vibrant color, and contemporary city vibes.
Modern locations pair beautifully with clean, classic outfits. Cream, camel, charcoal gray, denim, soft blue, olive, and warm neutrals create a timeless look against the city's steel, glass, and contemporary architecture. If you'd like to make more of a statement, rich jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, burgundy, or deep plum photograph beautifully and add striking contrast to the urban backdrop. Even a thoughtfully chosen bold color can look incredible in this setting. Simple patterns, tailored silhouettes, and timeless pieces help keep the focus on you while complementing the modern architecture.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: I know sunset sounds tempting, but trust me on this one—morning is the magic hour at Seaholm. The light is softer, the streets are quieter, and Butterfly Bridge at sunrise with the Austin skyline behind it is one of my favorite views in the entire city.
⭐ One of My Favorites
Best For:
Families • Maternity • Seniors • Headshots
Scenery:
Austin Skyline • Reflective Glass • Steel Wall • Modern Columns • Native Landscaping • Downtown Views
Best Seasons:
Year-Round
Best Time of Day:
Golden Hour
Walking Required:
Moderate (5–6 minute walk from the parking garage)
Parking:
Long Center Garage (Main Parking) $12
Dog Friendly:
Yes
Good to Know:
The Long Center is one of Austin's most popular event venues, so occasional festivals, concerts, or private events can affect certain photography areas. I always check the event calendar beforehand and arrive early to make sure our favorite locations are available. If an event happens to be taking over the H-E-B Terrace (that wasn't listed on the on-line calendar), we simply pivot to nearby Seaholm District—just five minutes away—so your session stays relaxed and stress-free.
The Long Center offers what I think is the best skyline view in Austin.
One of the things I love most is how effortlessly it blends modern architecture with touches of nature. Within a short walk, we can photograph against reflective glass, textured steel walls, dramatic columns, and beautifully landscaped greenery, creating a gallery that feels both urban and inviting.
The H-E-B Terrace is the highlight for many sessions, offering breathtaking views of the downtown skyline that instantly capture the spirit of Austin. Whether we're photographing families, branding clients, or high school seniors, the city creates a stunning backdrop without overwhelming the people in the photograph.
This is an especially popular location for senior guys. The clean architecture, industrial textures, and skyline views create a modern, confident look that's stylish without feeling overly formal. It's one of those rare locations that feels equally at home with a blazer, jeans, or a favorite pair of sneakers.
Because the Long Center sits in the heart of downtown, there's always a little energy around us—but that's part of its charm. And if downtown throws us a curveball with an unexpected event, I already have a backup plan ready to go.
Families looking for a modern city backdrop with a touch of greenery, headshot sessions, and high school or college seniors—especially guys who love the clean lines, skyline views, and contemporary feel of downtown Austin.
The Long Center photographs beautifully with timeless, modern clothing. Cream, camel, charcoal gray, denim, olive, and soft blues create a sophisticated look against the city's architecture, while jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and burgundy add rich contrast. Because this location blends urban textures with natural landscaping, it works equally well with polished outfits or a more relaxed, casual style.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: Downtown venues occasionally surprise us with last-minute events, even when the calendar looks clear. I always arrive early to check our planned locations, and if the H-E-B Terrace isn't available, we'll head to Seaholm District just a few minutes away. Both locations photograph beautifully, so you can relax knowing we always have a great Plan B.
⭐ One of My Favorites
Best For:
Families • Seniors • Branding • Headshots
Scenery:
Colorful Architecture • Bright Walls • Cafés • Modern Storefronts • Native Landscaping • Urban Walkways
Best Seasons:
Year-Round
Best Time of Day:
Sunrise
Walking Required:
Light
Parking:
Free & Easy
Dog Friendly:
Yes
Good to Know:
Photography at Rock Rose requires advance permission, which is free but should be requested at least one week before your session. Sunrise is by far the best time to photograph here, offering beautiful light, comfortable temperatures, and quiet sidewalks before the area comes to life.
If you're looking for a location that's vibrant, colorful, and full of personality, Rock Rose at The Domain is one of my favorite urban spots in Austin.
Unlike the clean industrial feel of Seaholm or the skyline views at the Long Center, Rock Rose has a playful energy all its own. Brightly colored architecture, stylish storefronts, cafés, and pockets of landscaping create a fresh, modern backdrop that's full of variety without feeling overwhelming.
One of my favorite things about this location is how much we can accomplish within a short walk. In less than an hour, we can photograph against five or six completely different backdrops, creating a gallery that feels diverse while keeping the session relaxed and easy.
Although it's a popular destination later in the day, sunrise transforms the entire area. The streets are peaceful, the light is soft and flattering, and we have plenty of room to move from one backdrop to the next without crowds. It's one of those locations where everything just works beautifully in the morning.
Families who want a fun, modern backdrop, high school and college seniors looking for colorful and contemporary portraits, and branding clients wanting fresh, approachable images with plenty of personality.
Because Rock Rose is already filled with vibrant colors, I usually recommend soft, muted clothing that complements the surroundings rather than competing with them. Cream, soft blue, sage, dusty rose, camel, olive, muted lavender, and other gentle tones photograph beautifully here. You certainly don't have to wear neutrals, but choosing softer shades allows the colorful architecture to enhance your portraits instead of pulling attention away from you.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: Although it may seem early, sunrise is absolutely worth it at Rock Rose. The soft morning light is far more flattering than the harsh afternoon sun, parking is easy, and we can enjoy the colorful streets before the shops, restaurants, and crowds arrive.
Best For:
Families • Maternity • Seniors (especially UT students and alumni)
Scenery:
The Littlefield Fountain • The Blanton Museum of Art • The Aqua Door • The Greenhouse • Historic Architecture • Towering Oaks • Campus Walkways
Best Seasons:
Year-Round
Best Time of Day:
Sunrise • Golden Hour if you want the fountain
Walking Required:
Moderate to Extensive
Parking:
Brazos Garage (approximate ly a $6parking fee)
Dog Friendly:
No
Good to Know:
The University of Texas campus is expansive, so we'll typically focus on one primary area and the beautiful locations within walking distance of it. Sunrise is by far the best time to photograph here, offering softer light and fewer students and visitors throughout campus.
Because the university is constantly evolving—with construction projects, campus events, and changing pedestrian traffic—every session is a little different. One thing to keep in mind: During football season, Saturday sessions are typically only available on away game weekends. Home games bring thousands of fans to campus, making parking, walking, and photography much more challenging.
The University of Texas is one of the most iconic places in Austin, but it's also one of the most challenging to photograph well.
Unlike many of my locations where everything is within a few minutes' walk, UT is expansive. Rather than trying to cover the entire campus, we'll choose your favorite area and build the session around the beautiful locations nearby. Whether you're drawn to the historic charm of Littlefield Fountain, the clean lines of the Blanton Museum of Art, the famous Aqua Door, or the campus greenhouse, there are countless opportunities to create a gallery that feels uniquely yours.
I especially love photographing seniors here—particularly students graduating from UT or those planning to attend. For families and maternity sessions with a Longhorn connection, the campus becomes much more than a backdrop. It tells part of your story.
High school and college seniors, UT students and alumni, maternity sessions, and families who have a meaningful connection to the university and want to incorporate one of Austin's most recognizable landmarks into their portraits.
Classic, timeless clothing works beautifully on campus. Cream, camel, olive, denim, soft blue, charcoal gray, and rich jewel tones complement both the historic limestone architecture and the contemporary spaces throughout the university. If you're a proud Longhorn, burnt orange can make a fun accent without needing everyone to match.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: Before every UT session, we'll decide which campus landmarks are most important to you. Because the university is so expansive, focusing on one area allows us to spend more time creating beautiful images and less time walking across campus.
Best For:
Families • Maternity • Seniors • Extended Families
Scenery:
Boardwalk Bridge • Downtown Skyline • Lake Austin • Tree-Lined Paths • Native Landscaping • Open Green Space
Best Seasons:
Spring • Summer • Fall
Best Time of Day:
⭐ Sunrise • Golden Hour
Walking Required:
Light to Moderate
Parking:
Free (can be limited)
Dog Friendly:
Yes
Good to Know:
Festival Beach is one of Austin's most popular outdoor destinations, especially on evenings and weekends. For the best experience, I recommend weekday evenings or morning sessions when the park is quieter. Parking can be unpredictable, so I always suggest arriving with a little extra time to spare.
Festival Beach offers one of the most unique combinations of natural beauty and city views in Austin.
What makes this location so special is the incredible variety we can capture in a single session. One moment we're photographing beneath beautiful tree-lined paths with sunlight filtering through the branches, and the next we're on the boardwalk with sweeping views of the lake and the downtown skyline. It feels like the perfect balance between a nature park and an urban location.
One of my favorite features is the distinctive pedestrian bridge, which creates a modern architectural element while still feeling connected to the surrounding landscape. Combined with the mature trees, winding shoreline, and open green spaces, the result is a gallery that's fresh, relaxed, and unmistakably Austin.
Festival Beach is especially wonderful for families who love being outdoors but also want a subtle downtown feel. It has all the warmth of a park without feeling like "just another park."
Families, extended families, maternity sessions, and high school or college seniors looking for a location that blends beautiful natural scenery with modern Austin views. It's a wonderful choice for anyone who wants a little bit of both worlds.
Festival Beach photographs beautifully with soft, natural colors like cream, sage, dusty blue, olive, camel, muted terracotta, and warm neutrals. Because this location combines lush greenery with urban elements, both earth tones and rich jewel tones work beautifully while keeping the focus on you.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: Parking here can be a little unpredictable, especially on beautiful evenings and weekends. I always recommend arriving a little early so we can start your session relaxed and on time. If your schedule allows, weekday evenings or morning sessions usually provide the best experience with fewer crowds.
⭐ One of My Favorites
Best For:
Families • Lifestyle Newborns • Maternity
Scenery:
Your Home • Cozy Living Spaces • Nursery • Kitchen • Bedrooms • Front Porch • Backyard (if it's shaded)
Best Seasons:
⭐ Year-Round
Best Time of Day:
Around 10:00 AM
Walking Required:
Minimal
Parking:
At Your Home
Dog Friendly:
Absolutely!
Good to Know:
Morning sessions typically provide the most beautiful natural light, which is why I usually recommend scheduling your session around 10:00 AM. Before your session, we'll talk through which rooms have the best light and decide where we'll spend most of our time.
The most meaningful backdrop isn't always the prettiest one—it's the place where your family's story is unfolding. Some of my favorite photographs have nothing to do with a beautiful park or scenic overlook—they happen right at home.
Your home tells your family's story in a way no other location can. It's where your children build forts in the living room, snuggle up for bedtime stories, help make pancakes on Saturday mornings, and leave tiny fingerprints on the kitchen island. Years from now, those everyday moments often become the memories you'll treasure most.
Rather than simply posing for the camera, I love creating a session that reflects what life genuinely looks like for your family. Maybe that means baking cookies together, making a favorite family recipe, working on a beloved puzzle, reading books on the couch, watering the garden, or simply playing in the backyard. The activity itself isn't the focus—it's the connection that naturally happens while you're doing it together.
The result is a gallery that feels personal, authentic, and uniquely yours because it captures the place where your family's story is unfolding every day.
Families wanting meaningful, documentary-inspired portraits, lifestyle newborn sessions, maternity sessions, and anyone who believes the best memories are often made at home.
Since your home becomes part of your photographs, I recommend choosing clothing that complements your home's colors and style rather than competing with them. Soft neutrals, earth tones, muted blues, sage, camel, dusty rose, and other timeless colors photograph beautifully in most homes. Coordinating with your décor helps create a gallery that feels cohesive, relaxed, and truly at home.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: Think about one simple activity your family genuinely enjoys together. Baking cookies, making homemade pizza, reading a favorite book, working on a puzzle, watering the garden, or even jumping on the bed can all make wonderful photographs. The goal isn't to create a perfect Pinterest moment—it's to capture your family being yourselves.
Best For:
Lifestyle Newborns • Infant Milestones • Cake Smash Sessions • Families • Maternity • Headshots
Scenery:
Bright White Studio • Green Velvet Couch • Modern Furniture • Natural Light • Seasonal Holiday Décor (optional)
Best Seasons:
⭐ Year-Round
Best Time of Day:
9:00–11:00 AM
Walking Required:
Minimal
Parking:
Convenient onsite parking
Dog Friendly:
Yes
Good to Know:
The Lumen Room is available by reservation and rents for $75 per hour. For lifestyle newborn sessions, I recommend reserving two hours to allow plenty of time for feeding, diaper changes, and soothing breaks without feeling rushed. A private restroom is conveniently located inside the studio.
The Downtown Lumen Room is one of my favorite studio spaces because it combines beautiful natural light with a clean, modern design.
Unlike a traditional photography studio with backdrops and artificial lighting, this space feels bright, welcoming, and comfortable. The large windows fill the room with soft light while the thoughtfully designed furniture—including the beautiful green velvet couch—adds personality without distracting from your family.
One of the biggest advantages of this studio is consistency. Whether it's the middle of a hot Texas summer, a rainy afternoon, or you simply prefer an indoor setting, we can create timeless photographs without worrying about the weather.
During the holidays, the studio also offers optional seasonal décor if you'd like a festive look while still keeping your session clean and modern.
Lifestyle newborn sessions, infant milestones, cake smash sessions, maternity portraits, families with young children, and professional headshots. It's also a wonderful option during Austin's hottest summer months or anytime you prefer the comfort of an indoor, climate-controlled space.
Soft, timeless colors photograph beautifully in this bright studio. Cream, camel, sage, dusty blue, warm neutrals, olive, and muted earth tones complement the modern décor and natural light. Because the studio has a clean, minimal aesthetic, simple clothing with subtle texture allows your family and your
connection to remain the focus.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: If you're planning a newborn session, don't feel like everything has to go perfectly. I intentionally recommend a two-hour rental so there's plenty of time for feeding, diaper changes, cuddles, and soothing your baby. Some of the sweetest images happen during those quiet, in-between moments.
See What's Possible
The Downtown Lumen Room is a wonderful option for families looking for a clean, modern style without worrying about Austin's unpredictable weather. The bright natural light and thoughtfully designed furniture create timeless portraits that keep the focus where it belongs—on your family.
This studio was practically made for lifestyle newborn photography. The soft window light, cozy seating, and uncluttered design create a peaceful environment for welcoming a new baby, celebrating milestone birthdays, or documenting your little one's first year.
Whether you're a Realtor, therapist, attorney, lender, interior designer, author, artist, fitness professional, entrepreneur, or small business owner, this bright studio provides a polished yet approachable backdrop for branding photography and professional headshots. Together we'll create images that feel authentic to your business while giving you a versatile gallery for your website, social media, and marketing materials.
⭐ One of My Favorites
Best For:
Lifestyle Newborns • Infant Milestones • Cake Smash Sessions • Families • Maternity • Branding & Professional Headshots
Scenery:
Bright White Studio • Modern Seating • Natural Light • Seasonal Holiday Décor (optional)
Best Seasons:
⭐ Year-Round
Best Time of Day:
9:00–11:00 AM
Walking Required:
Minimal
Parking:
Convenient Onsite Parking
Dog Friendly:
Yes!
Good to Know:
The Leander Lumen Room is available by reservation for $85 per hour. I recommend reserving two hours for newborn sessions to allow plenty of time for feeding, diaper changes, and soothing breaks. A private restroom is conveniently located inside the studio.
The Leander Lumen Room has all the beautiful natural light of the Downtown studio but offers a softer, more residential feel.
Because the space is larger, it gives us a little more room to move naturally throughout the session. The flowing white curtains, warm camel-colored sofa, and beautiful white crib create a cozy setting that feels inviting without being overly styled.
One of my favorite features of this studio is how versatile it is. It works beautifully for everything from lifestyle newborn sessions and growing families to maternity portraits and professional branding photography. The neutral design allows your images to feel timeless while still offering enough warmth and texture to create beautiful variety throughout your gallery.
Like the Downtown location, this studio is also an excellent choice during Austin's hottest summer months or whenever you'd prefer the comfort of an indoor, climate-controlled session.
Lifestyle newborn sessions, infant milestones, maternity portraits, families with young children, cake smash celebrations, and branding photography. The larger layout and nursery-inspired details make this location especially wonderful for families welcoming a new baby.
Soft, neutral colors pair beautifully with this studio's warm, inviting design. Cream, camel, sage, dusty blue, olive, warm browns, and muted earth tones complement the natural textures throughout the space. Simple layers and subtle textures photograph beautifully while keeping the focus on your family.
📸 Lindsay's Tip: If you're planning a newborn session, this studio's larger layout gives us plenty of flexibility to create a beautiful variety of images. We can easily move between the cozy seating area, the white crib, and open window light, creating a gallery that feels diverse while maintaining a consistent, timeless style.
See What's Possible
The Leander Lumen Room offers the comfort of an indoor session with the warmth of home. Its larger layout gives children room to move naturally while the neutral furnishings create timeless family portraits that never feel overly posed or trendy.
If you're dreaming of a cozy, lifestyle-inspired newborn session, this studio is hard to beat. The white crib, flowing curtains, soft natural light, and inviting seating create a peaceful environment that's perfect for documenting your baby's first days, celebrating milestones, or capturing a joyful cake smash.
Whether you're a Realtor, therapist, attorney, lender, interior designer, author, artist, fitness professional, entrepreneur, or small business owner, this studio offers a warm, polished setting for branding photography and professional headshots. The neutral décor photographs beautifully and provides a versatile backdrop for websites, social media, marketing materials, and personal branding.
turn moments into memories; businesses into brands
MAKING FAMILY PHOTOS FUN SINCE 2012
Lindsay is an award-winning, published, natural light photographer with over 14 years of experience. Based in Austin, TX she specializes in photographing families, maternities, newborns, seniors, and personal brands.
hello@lindsayherkert.com
512-522-2575
