Looking for some ATX outdoor location ideas to create some magic in? Then, you are in the right place! Austin is stunning in so many ways, and there are plenty of scenic locations to use as your backdrop. Born and raised here, I hesitate to give my favorite spots away, but I also believe sharing is caring and as a creative who frequents other cities in search of some unique backdrops, I’m all about sharing some of my local gems. Just remember to always be courteous to other photographers. Everyone’s trying their best and if they have clients with them, share the space as best you can… always. Here are some of the best outdoor locations in Austin for photography:
1. Mayfield Park
Floral lovers rejoice as this park is covered in gorgeous beds of flowers. It’s a perfect place for springtime photography. The quaint little cottage on the property also offers some nice white wood wall backdrops for photos. If you are lucky, you may get a peacock or two to model with you. If you are looking for a super pretty place to take some portraits in a relaxed environment, Mayfield Park is a great option.
2. Festival Beach
Okay, so this spot has it all. If you’re looking for a place with a wide variety of photo opportunities, look no further than Festival Beach. Within minutes at this location, you can walk to a sandy beach area, a grassy field, and an architecturally banging bridge to use as a backdrop for your photshoot. I’ve captured some amazing sunset shots in this unique and widespread ATX outdoor location.
3. Redbud Park
This spot is a little hard to find parking at, so it’s important you go during some out of the normal hustle hours. The park is secluded near the water and offers some delightful cypress trees and winding roots to pose with. If you are planning a maternity photoshoot, an engagement shoot, or just want some nice photos near the water, Redbud Park is a great choice.
4. Little Stacey Park
You can find a lot of places around Austin that have some beautiful limestone rock walls, but this hidden gem is one of my favorites due to its centralized location. I wouldn’t say it’s great for families, but it’s a sweet spot for moody portraits.
5. McKinney Falls State Park
With its lush greenery and gorgeous waterfall, McKinney Falls State Park is an ideal spot for nature lovers. Whether you want to capture the beauty of the falls or the stretches of unique flat rocks, you are sure to get some stunning shots here at sunset. This spot is next on my portrait spot hot list.
6. A Popular ATX Outdoor Location: The Botanical Gardens
With its beautiful flowers, the Austin Botanical Gardens is a great place for photography all year round. Please note, they charge an extra $50 dollars for photography. But it’s all worth it.
In the spring, the wildflowers are in bloom and make for a gorgeous canvas to use as a backdrop. In the fall, the leaves change color and create a beautiful scene. And in the winter, the gardens are decorated with lights, making them even more picturesque. No matter what time of year you visit, you are sure to get some stunning shots at the local Botanical Gardens. Then hop over to Barton Springs after the shoot for a cooling dip in the natural springs pool.
7. Blunn Creek Near St. Edwards
You have to hike a bit into the forest, but it’s a secluded adventure. The creek is lined with trees, and there are plenty of places to sit and relax. As you hike up to the top, there’s a sweet view of Austin and the sunsets can be magical. This is also located near St. Edwards, where you can take advantage of some of the beautiful lawns and building walls provided near campus.
8. Auditorium Shores
This is an Austin staple and a great place to take photos. Everyone loves a good skyline view. The stage is perfect for portraits of any kind and you can walk around to the different areas of the park to create many photoshoot vignettes in one booking. If looking for a view of the city, Auditorium Shores is one of my favorites.
9. Stephenson Nature Reserve
This is not your ordinary forest. This is a faery forest and it’s my local backyard, so don’t fuck it up Mmmmmkay?! 🙂 If you are looking for a magical nature vibe, look no further than Stephenson Nature Preserve. With its lush vegetation and variety of trails, this spot is perfect for moody photography – just watch out for others on the trails including bicyclists.
10. Sekrit Theatre
Love the name, love the concept, love everything about this place. You have to reserve your time slot, but it’s a playground for photographers. So many backdrops, so much mystical nature, so much inspiration to transpire as you step foot onto the grounds. They have a changing room and bathroom and you can even rent this for wedding events. Make sure to book ahead!
Create with Me at these ATX Outdoor Location Ideas:
So there you have it – my favorite hot list of some of the best outdoor locations in Austin for photography and photoshoots. Without a doubt, Austin is Awesome – so many fun spaces to create in, and we can make it even more fun together. Hope you enjoy this list, and as always – play nice out there! Clean up after yourself. Be kind and greet your neighbors out with you. Keep the friendly Austin vibe I grew up with – as the top top of your mind.
Book with me to create in one of these fabulous spaces, or message me if you have more ideas to add to this amazing list.
