Searching for the perfect photo shoot location for your engagement pictures? Look no further than our extensive guide. From classic Austin locations to special spots, we’ll help you find the best engagement shoot locations in Austin.
Enchanted Rock (photo by Carmen Williams Photography)
Just outside the Austin area into the beautiful Texas countryside sits Enchanted Rock. This outdoor engagement shoot location is popular due to the unique landscape of the area.
Large boulders, big skies and slanting rock hills give you a large variety of potential wide shots and closeups. As with any outdoor location, bring an extra pair of sturdy shoes and plenty of water. Work with an experienced photographer such as Carmen J Williams Photography for more insight on outdoor engagement sessions.
Remember, you will need a permit to shoot your engagement photo session at Enchanted Rock. It’s just $25 and well worth it for these spectacular views.
Laguna Gloria – The Contemporary Austin
Laguna Gloria at The Contemporary Austin is a great engagement photo location for couples looking for sophistication and outdoor elegance
Several indoor locations feature checkered flooring and large windows indoors, trimmed in green. Next, head outdoors along one of the winding, lush walkways or overlooking the lake for a classically beautiful photo.
At Laguna Gloria, you do need to make an appointment a few days before your session. Appointments are booked per hour at $150 per hour. Choosing a skillful photographer like Mitchell Bahr Photography will help you maximize your time.
South Congress
“South Congress is one of my favorite places to shoot because it has so many colorful, fun and quirky elements,” says Brio with Brio Photography.
Couples love the variety they can find in the area, with something for every couple. Whether you want quirky and fun or sophisticated and refined, you’ll find a great spot for an engagement photo on South Congress.
Brio reminds all couples that want a classic South Congress engagement photo, “Don’t try to shoot here on a weekend!”
Austin FC (photo by Brio Photography)
This one is for the soccer lovers!
Austin FC makes for a unique engagement photo location in Austin. The sweep of green seats provides a fun and festive look that will pop in your photos. Several uniquely-lit indoor areas provide a different perspective of the location.
This session with Brio Photography was planned well enough in advance that the couple had access to normally private areas. What a great photo for your Save the Date cards!
Downtown Austin
Downtown Austin can be a playground for couples and their photographers.
Urban parking garages, sweeping bridges, and lonely streets (if you arrive at the right time!) all await for your engagement photo session. You can switch from park views to large buildings to iconic art installations all over downtown.
To make the most of your engagement sessions and narrow down your choices, work with a photographer such as Inspired Images Photography.
Zilker Park
There’s a good reason Zilker Park remains a popular engagement photo destination.
Couples can tuck away amongst the large oak trees or green-filled walkways. There’s a small gazebo that makes a great backdrop or photo shoot location.
You can also get a more urban-style photo with the downtown Austin buildings looming behind. These buildings are visible from bridges and open green spaces.
You’ll want to prepare in advance when considering an engagement session at Zilker Park. Book an experienced photographer such as Limelight Photography & Video and check out the policies on the Zilker Park website.
Hotel Van Zandt (photo by Brio Photography)
For a sophisticated take on your engagement photos, head to the Hotel Van Zandt.
This luxury hotel gives a cultured and modern feel to your engagement photos. Outdoor rooftops, speakeasy-style bars and artistic light installations make this a great spot for a photo shoot.
Around the lobby and restaurant areas are beautiful furniture pieces in rich colors that can set the mood for your session.
University of Texas
The University of Texas is a beautiful place for engagement photos. Though this location is especially popular with UT grads and students, you certainly don’t need to be either to choose this location!
Shooting your engagement photos at the University of Texas gives you plenty of options. From the iconic tower to hidden spots such as the green house, your photos will be as iconic as the university itself.
Be sure to call a knowledgeable photographer such as Pixiwed to capture the perfect shot.
The Capitol
For engagement photos with serious Austin vibes, nothing beats the Capitol.
Couples love to take their photos on the tree lined walkway with the Capitol building soaring behind them. There are several angles that work well from closeups to wide shots.
You can also take photos on nearby bridges with the Capitol in the background or on the steps. Hire an experienced photographer such as Ever After Studio for more ideas.
For more ideas and inspiration, check out our list of Austin wedding photographers.