About Austin
One of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, Austin serves as the energized capital of Texas and beats to the quirky motto, “Keep Austin Weird.” It’s home to the flagship campus of the University of Texas and architectural landmarks such as the State Capitol building, as well as diverse neighborhoods where you can explore the city’s exciting culinary scene.
With its rich musical and artistic culture on display each year during the SXSW festival, Austin draws creatives in every field. Its diverse photo shoot locations, picturesque parks, and eclectic venues make it an ideal place to hold a photo shoot, no matter the style or target audience.
Photo Shoot Options in Austin
Once you’ve settled on your photo shoot locations in Austin, it’s time to secure the services of some of the city’s professional vendors to make your event happen.
- Photographers
A photo shoot isn’t complete without a professional photographer (or photographers) behind the camera, and Austin has no shortage to draw on. Whether you’re after fashion, food, or advertising photographers, you’ll be able to find individuals with the experience you need.
- Hair and makeup artists
For fashion or people-centric photo shoots, a team of hair and makeup artists can be invaluable to give your images a professional touch. Austin’s experienced beauty professionals will do the job, whether you need nail technicians, hairdressers, or makeup gurus.
- Equipment rentals
If your Austin photoshoot location isn’t equipped with everything you need, you can find furnishings, lights, and decor through one of the city’s gear rental companies.
- Catering
Keep your models and crew refueled throughout the shoot with the help of one of Austin’s catering companies who can deliver platters, multi-course meals, or buffets for your event.
- DJ
Want to create a certain ambiance at your shoot? A live DJ spinning tunes can keep the morale of your models and crew high, even during long sessions.
Event Companies in Austin
Need help getting your photo shoot off the ground? One of Austin’s experienced event planning companies can handle all of the logistics, so that you can focus on the artistic side.
- Pearl Events Austin
Pearl Events is an award-winning Austin event management company led by the talented Becky Navarro. They’re dedicated to creating events that are uniquely Austin and draw on the best locations and vendors the city has to offer.
- Kennedy Creative Events
Kennedy Creative Events focuses on corporate, social, and non-profit clients, assisting with everything from finding an event venue in Austin to day-of management services.
- Events Unleashed
Whether you need help with brainstorming ideas for your photoshoot or finding experienced vendors, Events Unleashed is highly experienced in all facets of event management.
Pros and Cons of Photo Shoots in Austin
There are plenty of advantages to finding photo shoot locations in Austin, including the city’s vibrant arts scene and its sunny weather. But with scorching summer temperatures and notorious traffic, there are a few drawbacks to keep in mind.
Advantages
- The arts scene
Austin boasts a vibrant arts and music scene, which draws plenty of creative people to the city. There are festivals and events taking place throughout the year, so there’s always something happening outside of your photo shoot hours.
- Multiculturalism
The city’s multiculturalism is increasing by the day, meaning you have people from all backgrounds to draw on for your photo shoot.
- Diversity of venues
From private studios to contemporary homes and creative warehouse spaces, there are plenty of photo shoot locations in Austin to inspire you.
- Experienced vendors
Whether you need photographers, caterers, or hair and makeup artists, you’ll be able to find Austin event vendors to make your photo shoot a reality.
- Favorable weather
With around 300 sunny days each year, your Austin photo locations don’t have to be confined to the indoors. You can take advantage of the city’s leafy parks or desert-like surroundings without having to worry about getting rained out.
Disadvantages
- Traffic is terrible
Although the city’s public transport network is improving, locals still rely heavily on cars for getting around. This has resulted in traffic issues throughout the city center, particularly during daily rush hours.
- Property prices are high
Compared to some of the other major cities in Texas, Austin’s property prices are relatively high, which means you may pay more for a photo shoot location here than elsewhere.
- Summers can be scorching
There’s no denying it - Texas experiences hot summers, and Austin’s temperatures can soar during June, July, and August. Hosting an outdoor photo shoot during this period might not be comfortable for everyone involved.
- The bugs can be fierce
Austin’s bugs and mosquitoes can be unbearable at certain times of the year, and being outside without repellant is only for the brave.
- It’s easy to overspend on eating
With so many great places to eat in Austin - from barbecue joints to taco restaurants and craft breweries - it’s easy to spend way more than you intended on dining.
Famous Photo Shoot Locations in Austin
- Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum
Showcasing the works of American sculptor Charles Umlauf, this impressive museum and garden lies adjacent to Austin’s leafy Zilker Park. It features regularly changing exhibitions, themed activities, and live music evenings, as well as offering yoga classes in its stunning gardens. Base your photo shoot in a modern home setting in Westlake Hills or a studio in West Austin, and you can easily extend your session at this cultural hub.
- The Broken Spoke
For a classic Texas bar, you can’t go past the Broken Spoken, which claims to be the “last of the true Texas dance halls.” It’s been holding live music evenings and dance classes for over 50 years, accompanied by its signature chicken-fried steak.
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Situated on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin, this picturesque center celebrates the flora and fauna of the Lone Star State. It offers hands-on gardening courses for young and old, as well as kid-friendly investigative sessions in its Central Gardens, Texas Arboretum, and Savanna Meadow.