A working photographer’s guide

Austin-area portrait
photography locations.

Forty-eight scouted spots across Austin, the Hill Country, and the towns around them. Some I’ve shot. Some I haven’t yet. All of them I’ve vetted: for light, for parking, for permits, and for what actually works once you’re standing there with a camera.

Type All Nature Urban Day trip
Best for Portraits Engagement Family Senior Branding
9 locations
Nature · Overlook Shot here
Mount Bonnell
Central Austin · 78731

Mount Bonnell

Highest point in Austin (775 ft). Panoramic vistas of Lake Austin and Hill Country, golden light at sunset. Climb 102 stone stairs.

Nature · Overlook
Pennybacker Bridge Overlook
West Austin · Loop 360

Pennybacker Bridge Overlook

Panoramic view of Lake Austin winding through Hill Country with the iconic 360 bridge below. A dramatic conclusion to a multi-location session.

Urban · Murals + Shops Shot here
South Congress Avenue
Central Austin · 78704

South Congress Avenue

Vibrant urban charm: colorful murals, vintage storefronts, the "I Love You So Much" wall, the Austin Motel sign. Multiple sub-locations within walking distance.

Urban · Government
Texas State Capitol
Downtown Austin · 78701

Texas State Capitol

Grandiose ornate architecture, intricate design elements, large staircases, manicured grounds with shade. Free admission, no permit needed.

Nature · Garden
Mayfield Park & Preserve
Central Austin · 78703

Mayfield Park & Preserve

Fairytale atmosphere with resident peacocks, stone walls, ponds, and a historic white cottage. Soft, late-day light works best.

Nature · Botanical
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
South Austin · 78739

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Cultivated native Texas plants, plenty of options to sit, stand, and lean against. Beautiful year-round, even in winter. Peak in April for wildflowers.

Urban · Cultural Shot here
The Long Center
Downtown Austin · 78704

The Long Center

Performing-arts photography and editorial portraits. Architectural backdrops with the skyline behind them.

Nature · Family park Shot here
Brushy Creek Lake Park
Cedar Park · 78717

Brushy Creek Lake Park

Trees, water, and room to breathe. Cedar Park / Round Rock-side family and couples sessions. Easy walks to multiple looks within one trip.

Urban · Historic square Shot here
Downtown Georgetown Square
Georgetown · 78626

Downtown Georgetown Square

Historic town square with walkable storefronts, shaded sidewalks, and limestone architecture. A different feel from downtown Austin: quieter, more intimate.

Personalized shortlist

Most clients receive a curated list,
not the full guide.

After our pre-call, I send a personalized shortlist of three to five locations matched to your session: your part of town, the time of year, what you’re going for. The directory is the starting point. The shortlist is the answer.

Begin an inquiry