Since Texas is the birthplace of Joy Photo and Video, we’re biased to romance that has the Lone Star State as its backdrop! San Antonio features many of the things that makes Texas so special: country roots combined with big-city living, entertainment, and culture.
If you’re engaged and planning to take photos before the big day, here are the best San Antonio engagement photoshoot locations.
Whether you’re native to the area or just hoping to use this as the setting for your engagement session, San Antonio provides plenty of location options for the engagement photos of your dreams.
Urban Spots for Engagement Photos in San Antonio, Texas
If you’re looking for prime engagement photo locations in San Antonio, here are some places to consider that each have an elevated urban feel:
Stand under an archway at the Landa Library. When it comes to the best San Antonio engagement photoshoot locations, Landa Library tops the list because of unique settings with an indoor-outdoor feel. From the solid arches encompassing dramatic hallways, to brick-lined stairs, and shady trees across sprawling lawns, you’re guaranteed to get some special shots here. Photography permits are required only if you’re shooting inside. They are available at no cost to be requested in advance.
600 Soledad, San Antonio, Texas 78205
Kiss under the Hays Street Bridge. You might not realize this, but bridges can lead to some of the best engagement photos! Why? Bridges often overlook a city that you know + love and are near water or other natural park areas. The Hays Street Bridge offers the best of both worlds: towering and symmetrical architecture, surrounded by green trees.
803 N. Cherry Street, San Antonio, TX 78202
Twirl in the streets at Historic Market Square. If you personally connect with the Hispanic culture woven throughout the foundation of San Antonio, consider taking photos in this historic market. Enjoy posing with the vibrant colors and cultural art. Once you’re done, you can enjoy local food and entertainment. Check their website in advance to learn about events taking place---we recommend trying to go when it isn’t as crowded, like on a weekday morning.
514 W. Commerce St, San Antonio, Texas 78207
Lean against a mural at Essex Modern City. If you’re looking for an urban oasis, Essex Modern City is one of the best engagement photoshoot locations in San Antonio. Lined by unique art installations and colorful murals, this is a unique place that can lead to some memorable photos!
51 Essex Street, San Antonio, Texas 78210
Say cheers at the historic Pearl Brewery. If you want your engagement photos to feature the rich, urban history of San Antonio then make sure you consider this spot! This isn’t ‘just another brewery’ as its complex features multiple restaurants, shops, green pathways, and industrial architecture which make for a great backdrop. Another perk of this special location? The iconic River Walk borders the complex of the Pearl neighborhood so you can try to get some photos there, too.
303 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, Texas 78215
Outdoor Inspiration for Your Engagement Session in San Antonio
Looking for the best San Antonio engagement photoshoot locations that put its outdoor beauty in the spotlight? Local gardens and grounds can feature different settings for a dynamic and beautiful photoshoot. Here are a few places to inspire you:
Cuddle up at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Dubbed as a “living museum” this 38-acre conservatory features plants, wildflowers, and giant sculptures. (Our favorite time of year here is during the springtime because of the seasonal flowers, like bluebonnets!) Photo permits will need to be purchased beforehand.
555 Funston Place, San Antonio, Texas 78209
Walk hand in hand at the Japanese Tea Garden. If you’re looking for another garden for your engagement session, consider the Japanese Tea Garden. The grounds feature a variety of flowers, Koi ponds, bridges made of stone, and a 60-foot waterfall. Professional photography sessions will need to be coordinated in advance with the San Antonio Park Foundation.
400 N. St. Marys, Suite 101, San Antonio, Texas 78205
Show your artistic side at the McNay Art Museum. We love art museums for both engagements and engagement sessions because there are typically diverse areas to choose from. If you’re looking for lush gardens, Spanish architecture, or large art installations to supplement your engagement photos, then the McNay Art Museum is a great spot! Whether you’re art lovers or not---their 25-acre grounds feature Oak trees, a fountain, and beautiful areas where you can sit in the grass. Tickets will need to be purchased in advance and a permit is required.
6000 N New Braunfels Ave, San Antonio, Texas 78209
Pose under the trees at Cibolo Nature Center. Located right outside of San Antonio, the Cibolo Nature Center is one of the dreamiest places to take engagement photos in nature in the area! There are trails, canopy trees, and large creeks of water, which will provide plenty of options for different poses. Photo permits will need to be purchased beforehand.
Cibolo Nature Center, 140 City Park Road, Boerne, Texas 78006
Pro tip: Many gardens require permits so that they can protect their space. Make sure to read the fine print, and partner closely with your photographer on what will be needed in advance.
Hire a Photographer in Texas for Your Engagement Photos
We hope you enjoyed learning about the best San Antonio engagement photoshoot locations.
If you’re planning to get married in Texas, we have team members located in each of the main city hubs---from San Antonio to Houston. We provide comprehensive, couple-approved, engagement and wedding photography and videography.
Learn about our offerings and then browse our portfolio. Get in touch with us to see how we can help bring you joy!
[Photoshoot in the spotlight: Preslie + Thomas in San Antonio, Texas.]
Choose Joy,
The Joy Team