Did you just get engaged?! Are you super excited to take your engagement photos, or wondering where to take pictures in San Antonio? I’ve got you covered. You’ve come to the right place. As a San Antonio wedding photographer, here are my top 10 places to take engagement pictures in San Antonio, Texas, that I’ve personally visited! All of the following images are taken by yours truly. Feel free to inquire if you’d like to hire me as your photographer.

As I provide the following locations, I highly encourage everyone to respect each establishment, whether private or public. Ask permission. Respect the environment. PLEASE LEAVE NO TRACE BEHIND.

Onto the list, shall we?!

Top 10 Places to Take Engagement Pictures in San Antonio, Texas

1. United States Postal Service (Downtown) & The Emily Morgan Hotel (San Antonio)

If you’re looking for a place with beautiful arches and stairs, this is your spot. The photos below were taken around 10:30 a.m. in June. The sun was already pretty high, but the lighting still turned out great. Right across the street is the Emily Morgan Hotel, which is the closest we have to the Flatiron Building. This location not only offers stunning architectural backdrops but also provides a historic and charming atmosphere perfect for capturing timeless engagement photos. With its intricate details and picturesque surroundings, it’s a photographer’s dream and a couple’s perfect spot for creating lasting memories.

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2. Devils River Whiskey Distillery (Downtown)

Just a couple of blocks from the United States Postal Service, this venue is nestled in the heart of downtown San Antonio, Texas. What I love about this place is its unique charm. From the gorgeous bar and chandelier to the captivating basement, every corner of Devils River is perfect for a photo-op. The rich, rustic ambiance and historic feel of the venue provide a stunning backdrop that adds character and depth to every shot. However, please note that it is not free to take photos at this venue. I highly suggest contacting them here for more information. Despite the fee, the exceptional beauty and distinctive features of Devils River make it a worthwhile investment for capturing unforgettable engagement photos.

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3. San Antonio Botanical Gardens

I made a blog post about this engagement session here. If you’re looking for a garden-style, flowery type of engagement session, this is the best place for you. The botanical gardens offer a picturesque backdrop with lush greenery and vibrant blooms throughout the year, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere for your photos. However, please note that like the previous location, the botanical gardens require a photo permit for sessions. For more detailed information regarding their photography policy and to explore their stunning scenery, click here.

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4. Landa Library

Located near Olmos Park and Alamo Heights, this historic library was originally a gracious home gifted to the City of San Antonio by Harry Landa in 1946. Its picturesque architecture and serene surroundings make it an ideal spot for engagement photos. For the best lighting, I recommend scheduling your photoshoot an hour to an hour and a half before sunset, when the golden hour enhances the beauty of the location. Keep in mind that a permit is required for photography at the library. You can find more information on obtaining the permit and exploring this charming venue through this link.

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5. The Artists Collective Studio

This studio is one of my favorites. If you’re seeking an indoor setting for your engagement session, complete with beautiful windows, natural light, and a rustic brick wall backdrop, this is the perfect studio for you. Nestled in a private setting, this studio will bring your Pinterest board to life with its cozy yet elegant ambiance. Capture intimate moments in a space designed to highlight your love story against a backdrop that exudes warmth and charm.

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6. City Tower Parking Garage

This parking garage overlooks downtown San Antonio and offers stunning views of the iconic “Frost Tower.” I highly recommend scheduling your photoshoot at sunrise to capture the cityscape in the soft, even light of morning. Sunrise sessions provide perfect lighting conditions for beautifully balanced photos. While sunsets also create a picturesque backdrop, summer months can bring intense heat, making sunrise a more comfortable option. This garage is also ideal for city hall or courthouse engagement sessions, providing an urban backdrop that complements any love story with a touch of metropolitan charm.

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7. San Antonio River Walk

The San Antonio River Walk offers a scenic path, but finding the ideal spot for photos can be tricky. These photos were captured near the “Arch Bridge” and “Omni La Mansion del Rio.” For the best experience, I recommend scheduling your session early in the morning on weekends. During this time, the area is less crowded, allowing you and your photographer to capture intimate moments in a serene atmosphere. This quiet period also helps clients relax and enjoy the session fully, resulting in natural and genuine photographs that reflect your love and joy.

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8. Hay Street Bridge

Just above the Alamo Beer Company, the Hay Street Bridge offers one of the best vantage points overlooking the city. This session was captured midweek near sunset, taking advantage of the quiet atmosphere with fewer people around. It’s an ideal spot for a proposal or an intimate engagement session, allowing for privacy and breathtaking views of the city skyline as your backdrop. After your session, celebrate and unwind with a refreshing beer at the nearby Alamo Beer Company, adding a perfect touch to your memorable day

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9. 1Watson

One of my favorite rooftop bars in San Antonio, 1Watson, sits atop the AC Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk, offering stunning views overlooking the Drury Hotel. The staff here are incredibly friendly and accommodating, ensuring a pleasant experience. For the best visit, I recommend going during non-peak hours and calling ahead for permission. They suggest arriving early when they open to enjoy the ambiance without the crowd, allowing you to relax and enjoy the panoramic views while capturing memorable moments during your engagement session or proposal.

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10. San Antonio City Hall & San Fernando Cathedral

Finally, if you’re seeking a stunning white building as a backdrop for your photos, City Hall is the perfect location. Just across the street, you’ll discover the oldest church in San Antonio, the San Fernando Cathedral, renowned for its beauty both inside and out. While the interior is awe-inspiring, please respect the church’s sanctity and limit photography to the exterior. The combination of these historic landmarks provides a picturesque setting that captures the essence of San Antonio’s rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal spot for capturing timeless engagement or wedding photos.

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I hope this list of places to take pictures in San Antonio helps you on your hunt for the perfect spot. Planning your engagement session is an exciting step towards capturing the essence of your love story. Choosing the right photographer can make all the difference in preserving these cherished moments. I specialize in creating crafting timeless, intimate photographs that authentically reflect your unique connection. Let’s embark on this journey together to create images that not only capture your joy and passion but also become treasured memories for years to come. Let’s chat! today and let’s make magic happen!