Top 5 Locations For Your Hill Country Texas Engagement Photos
Hello and congrats on your engagement! If you’re reading this guide, I’m going to assume you’re a couple living in or wanting an engagement session in captivating Hill Country region of central Texas. Well, you’ve come to the right spot! Not only do I have over 10 years photography experience, I am a New Braunfels local and native Texan, and I want you to have the most incredible, jaw-dropping engagement photos you’ve ever seen. I want your friends and family to go craaaaazy and oooooh and ahhhh at your photos. I want your pictures to stand out so you can proudly display them at your wedding. 1836 Photographie believes your Texas engagement photos should look like no one else’s and should portray who you are as a couple as authentically as possible.
And that, my friends, all starts with location.
In this quick guide, I want to give you 1836 Photographie’s top 5 favorite places to shoot in the greater Austin and San Antonio area. I believe some of the most beautiful, unique places are located right in our backyard, and I’m going to give you my top 5.
Below, in no particular order, are my five favorite hidden gems!
Cibolo Nature Center | Boerne
This is one of the most amazing, but not well known, nature parks in all of the hill country. If your engagement session is in spring or fall, this area will give you all the romance. A wooded river to wade in, or a magnificent set of stepping stones spanning across if you want to stay dry. There’s truly something for every couple along the 6 miles of trail at Cibolo Nature Center. Donations are accepted for admission, and highly encouraged, so we can continue to enjoy this little wonder for generations.
Palmetto State Park | Gonzales
A little piece of the tropics lies just an hour from both Austin and San Antonio. With multiple sources of water (including the San Marcos River), Palmetto State Park is a haven in the midst of the I-35 sprawl. You are able to rent kayaks and make your session an adventure, or stay cool and dry under the enormous canopy of trees. There is a nominal $3 entrance fee but, let me tell you, it’s TOTALLY WORTH IT.
Japanese Tea Garden | San Antonio
The Japanese Tea Garden was an operating rock quarry that was shaped into a complex that includes walkways, stone arch bridges, an island, and a Japanese pavilion overlooking the lily ponds. The garden features a lush year-round garden and floral display with shaded walkways, stone bridges, a 60-foot waterfall and ponds filled with Koi. It’s a great location for your engagement session, tucked away in the heart of San Antonio and full of culture and almost year-round color! Currently, there is no photo permit required, but be sure to check their website for up to date info.
Crescent Bend Nature Park | Cibolo
There is SO much variety at Crescent Bend, you have OPTIONS for your session’s background (including river access) and a small open field to frolic with your fiancé! It’s usually pretty quiet there since it doesn’t have any playgrounds or deep swimming spots…until senior photo season, that is…
7A Ranch | Wimberley
7A Ranch is a family-owned resort resting on 7 acres right next to the beautiful Blanco River. For a $75 fee you’ll have access to the grounds and PRIVATE access to the river (especially amazing during the off season). For an extra $25, you’ll also have free reign of Pioneer Town, including the Opera House, Cowboy Museum, Game Room, Bottle House, Print Shop, Ice Cream Parlor, Log Cabins and Storefronts.
Final Notes:
Dress to impress and I’ll do the rest! Make sure your outfit stands out. 1836 Photographie’s images are well-known for bold style and incredible pops of color. The camera loves unique jewelry and flowy dresses that create motion but, if you need some extra help, I do provide my clients with an exclusive What to Wear Guide prior to our session. To personalize your photographs, you can bring just about anything that represents you as a couple. Bring your favorite picnic blanket, your favorite playlist to dance to, and even your favorite beer or wine (if allowed at location). I’m happy to accommodate your pup into the shoot as well. I also encourage my couples think back before your session…what was it about your significant other that first attracted you? What tipped you off that they’re the one? Small things like this can add an extra layer of depth and meaning to the session, and you’ll be surprised at how special the photographs will turn out. If you need more help planning your Texas engagement photos check out this other Blog Post.
Thanks for reading! I hope this was helpful and wish you the best, most meaningful engagement shoot. If you’re interested in chatting about your engagement session with 1836 Photographie, please fill out the Contact Form to get started and check availability.
Congrats again! I am so excited for you to start your life together.
