Although it’s the heat of summer and we are definitely in a slower time for family photos, fall will be here and family photo season will be ramping up and you’ll need family photo spots. So instead of doing a round up of things to do in San Antonio (because let’s face it- pool or air conditioning is a must), I’m going to share some of my favorite places for family photo shoots.
Not every spot is for everyone so I’m also adding in the pros and cons of each of the places to help you decide what’s best for you. However, each of these family photo spots is instagram-worthy!
11 Beautiful Family Photo Spots
Landa Library
As I write this I have a session booked for Landa Library Gardens and I’m so very excited. You can’t beat a good garden with lovely architecture for family photos.
Cons: It’s a free garden so it can get crowded. Early morning sessions are best here.
Cibolo Center for Conservation
This is by far one of my favorite places for family photos, graduate photos, pretty much anything. You get both river photos and there’s a field leading to the river for great photos as well.
Now let’s talk cons: This isn’t for you if you don’t want to get at least a little wet, it is a little drive from San Antonio, and it can get crowded. It’s popular among photographers so it can take some maneuvering around to get the shots.
King William Historic District
One of the more lovely areas of San Antonio is the King William Historic District. It is located between the San Antonio River, Cesar Chavez Boulevard, South St. Mary’s Street, and South Alamo Street and has very cute old houses. If you’re looking for “classic” San Antonio this may be for you. It goes along the missions as well.
Cons: This is mostly architecture and it’s not the best for families with young kids as there’s lots of crossing streets.
Hemisfair Park
Hemisfair Park is right downtown San Antonio and has the most variety of all the places on this list. There’s ivy walls, murals, waterfalls, as well as cafes with cute outdoor seating.
Cons: It can be distracting for young kids as there’s playgrounds and a lot to look at but if you want playful photos this can be a fun choice!
Market Square
Another classic San Antonio location is Market Square, the fiesta flags are so colorful and fun. It’s definitely unique and not the traditional “park” photos.
Cons: It can get very crowded here on the weekends so week day is best and after the stores have closed is better. It’s also very “themed” so if you’re not into that, this isn’t for you.
Bullis County Park
Bullis County Park doesn’t look like much when you pull up but it can be lovely. On top of the hill gives you views back over the hill country and there’s plenty of trees for beautiful lighting. You can also get great sunsets.
Cons: It is “just a park” so if you want more than that, maybe choose two locations to add more variety. It has a play ground which can distract some kids too.
Chris Park
I have not personally shot here but it’s on my bucket list now! It looks so lovely and is free to the public.
Cons: professional photography has to be approved so I’ll be inquiring on that and will post an update.
Confluence Park
I really love Confluence Park. A lot of people don’t know it exists (although that’s changing) and it has a good amount of variety.
Cons: They’ve started charging for photo sessions and if you’re not a fan of the architecture, it limits the variety.
Japanese Tea Gardens
The Japanese Tea Gardens are beautiful, free, and one of the more unique gardens in the San Antonio area. The flowers, waterfall, and rock walls make for lovely photos.
Cons: They aren’t great for large groups as there’s not a lot of space in the walkways so 4 or less is best for these Gardens.
From the Rooftop
There are a couple of places in town I’d love to do family photos at because they are on the rooftops! City views are always fun and the Koehler parking lot at the Pearl is so unique and perfect for family photos. Additionally, the Devil’s River Distillery rooftop is another one I’d love to do a rooftop session at.
Cons: These aren’t great places for young kids but would be so cute for engagement photos or older kids.
Gold Canyon Park
Finally, this little park I found because I lived nearby and used to run the trails. It’s pretty empty most of the time and has plenty of fun trees for classic photos.
Cons: The path is narrow so not the best for large groups and you’ll want to be ok with a little walking into the grass.
