I am updating this blog post, because this is always a huge part of my year, planning bridal portrait photoshoots!  I have shot countless locations in and around San Antonio, and this year I have a few new locations I hope my brides will consider.  Everyone's situation is different, but keep in mind a few things when deciding where you would like to be photographed.

 

First think about your wedding style, the style of your dress and envision what type of setting you see yourself.  Are you in a ballgown, or a sleek satin gown, or ruffles and boots?  What time of year do you plan to shoot, and is it necessary to consider a back up indoor location in case of a wintery rainstorm?  I recommend shooting at least a month prior to the wedding day to ensure we have enough to edit and have prints made.  Keep that in mind when shopping for the dress!  All fittings should be complete 2 months to six weeks prior to the wedding day.  Now let's talk about some of my favorite locations to shoot:  

Cibolo Nature Center | Everyday Dawn until Dusk | $20 donation

For that rustic, Texas bride feeling with wide open skies, grassy fields, and a river.  What more could you want.  This is a gorgeous location anytime of year, but the only rain plan is to reschedule.  The river is lined with tall maple trees, which means absolutely gorgeous color in the fall.  

San Antonio Bride San Antonio Bride

 

 Southwest School of Art | M-F 9 AM - 4 PM | Free

So, this is one of my favorite places to take brides, not only because it is versatile, architecturally interesting, and a great setting on a good and bad weather day, but also it's free.  As long as you make an appointment during their Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM staffed hours, Southwest School of Art supports artists and allows you to come and shoot.  If you are not having your wedding at SWSA, they do ask that you come dressed and do not use the dressing rooms or bathroom to put on your dress.  I have shot some lovely portraits there.  Here are a few examples.

Southwest School of Art Bridal PortraitBridal Portraits by Aria Productions at Southwest School of Art Southwest School of Art Bridal PortraitBridal Portraits by Aria Productions at Southwest School of Art Southwest School of Art Bridal PortraitBridal Portraits by Aria Productions at Southwest School of Art Southwest School of Art Bridal PortraitBridal Portraits by Aria Productions at Southwest School of Art

 

2. Landa Library and Conservancy | Always Open daylight hours | Free

This is another beautiful location, however you will need to obtain a permit from the San Antonio Film Commission 6 weeks in advance of the shoot.  (Links below to the process for obtaining a permit.)  There is also interesting architecture found on this public space, and I would really like to learn more about the origins of the archways overlooking the gardens.  

Landa Library Bridal PortraitSan Antonio Bride photographed at Landa Library by Aria Productions

3. San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden | Always Open daylight hours | $20 Photo Permit

This space has recently undergone some rebuilding and it is such an inspiring location for a bridal portrait.  You feel like you're not in San Antonio, but maybe an island somewhere in the Pacific with a majestic waterfall.  I definitely prefer to shoot here early in the morning to avoid harsh light and crowds.  However, I can make it work any time of day.  Go onto their website to obtain a permit for individual portrait sessions.

San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden BrideSan Antonio bride photographed at San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden by Aria Productions.

SarahO-1065

 

4. The Dominion Country Club | By appointment only | $250 Photo Permit

So, if you would like privacy, a beautiful location, with green rolling hills a pond and a glorious water feature, this may be your space.  I love shooting here because the catering staff takes such great care of you and your guests, they allow you to dress on the property, you have up to 2 hours to shoot, so no rush and there are so many options for creating a unique bridal portrait. I have shot here in the summer and the winter, and it is always a great location.  

Dominion Country Club Bridal PortraitSan Antonio Bride photographed at The Dominion Country Club by Aria Productions Dominion Country Club Bridal PortraitSan Antonio Bride photographed at The Dominion Country Club by Aria Productions

San Antonio Missions | By Appointment, Permit Required | $172 after hours, $136 during park hours
I love shooting at the Missions, but there are a few things to know.  You must apply for a permit through the National Park Service and schedule your shoot in advance.  The cost for this permit is generally $172.00 which includes the non-refundable Special Use Permit application fee of $50.00, the $50.00 location fee and $72.00 for NPS staff overtime (2 hours X $36.00/hour) as all permits outside of normal park operating hours (9AM – 5PM) require NPS staff monitoring.  I have shot in the middle of the day here, but you never know if a busload of school children will be visiting during that time, plus the light is better in the evening or early morning at Mission San Jose.  

San Antonio Bride at Mission San JoseThis was shot mid day, at The San Antonio Missions.

Mission San Jose Bridal Portrait

Mission Concepcion Bridal PortraitClick to see more!
 

Éilan Residences and Shops | Always Open daylight or evening hours | $Free (as of this post)

I love a big dramatic, architectural bridal portrait, and Éilan is just perfect for that.  So, in order to shoot inside this gorgeous luxury hotel, you must be a hotel guest or having your wedding at this hotel or pay the hotel fee which I believe was $560 only on certain dates by appointment last time I checked.  That is totally fair, but for those of us who are looking for interesting architecture in the backdrop of a portrait, we can certainly do the work in the exterior of the hotel, residences and shops for free and get some really amazing portraits.  Again, this is a public space, so not a lot of privacy, but it is so dreamy and mediterranean.  My only worry is that at some point they will decide to enforce a fee just to keep all the photographers from overrunning the place on those beautiful spring days.  

Éilan Bridal PortraitSan Antonio Bridal Portrait at Éilan Resort and Residences and Shops by Aria Productions Éilan Bridal PortraitSan Antonio Bridal Portrait at Éilan Resort and Residences and Shops by Aria Productions

 

Red Berry Estate| By Appointment | $500 + tax

A hidden gem north of downtown San Antonio, this luxurious estate is a bride's dream!  I recommend a weekday morning or evening to capture golden light sparkling over the lake or through the gorgeous fountains.  See a glorious bridal shoot here.  

 

Here are a few more:

 

Location	Fees (charged by the venue)
Cibolo Nature Center, Boerne	$20
Roszell Gardens	$75
Japanese Tea Garden (best early morning or weeknight)	$20
The Orchard Studio (Castroville Area, appointment required)	$25
San Antonio Botanical Garden	$195
McNay Art Museum	$30
McNay Art Museum Courtyard and Interior Foyer (appointment required)	$125
The Gardens at Old Town Helotes by appointment	Free when available
Landa Library (photo permit required, 6 weeks notice)	Free, (permit required)
The Pearl (best on a weeknight or early morning 8 AM)	Free
Southtown	Free
San Antonio Riverwalk by	Free
-Museum Reach	Free
-Southtown/King William/Johnson Street Bridge	Free
Local Public Parks -	Free
Brackenridge Park	Free
-OP Schnaebel Park	Free
-Friedrich Wilderness Park (Awesome Fall Color Dec-Jan)	Free
For Christmas Lights:  Riverwalk, Travis Park, Under Navarro Street Bridge	Free

 

 

These are just a few suggestions for you.  Search my blogs for other bridal portrait locations, and if you have any suggestions, definitely leave a comment down below.  My prayers go out to all the federal furloughed workers, that this shutdown will end soon and get our country back to work.  In the meantime, please reach out to me if you have any questions or would like suggestions for your dream bridal portrait.  

 

Kenneth and Josephine were married May 4, 2019 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in San Antonio, Texas.  Their love story is told not only in their wedding film, but also in their reception decor at The Grand Promenade with their guest tables named for some of their favorite places in San Antonio and other locations that are meaningful to the couple.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Music Licensed by Songfreedom and Artlist. Venue, Catering and Bar: The Grande Promenade https://thegrandpromenade.com/ Photography and Videography: Aria Productions http://ariaphotovideo.com Florist & Decor: Wolf Wedding and Events http://www.wolfweddings.com DJ and Lighting: Look Entertainment http://www.lookwed.com/ Live Performance by Letty Spain and Choir Cake: Cakes & More https://sacakes.com/ Hair and Makeup: Makeup Maven http://www.makeupmavensa.com/ Dress: Pronovias, Liv and Love Bridal https://www.livlovebridal.com/ Men's wear: Joseph A. Banks https://www.josbank.com/

Wedding Photography Published in the Texas Wedding Guide:

TxWG-F19-150DPI 262 TxWG-F19-150DPI 263 Hamiltom-1001 Hamiltom-1001-2 Dancing on a CloudKen and Josie danced the night away at The Grand Promenade. DJ,, Lighting and effects by Look Entertainment. Floral and Decor by Wolf Weddings. Photography and video by Aria Productions. http://ariaphotovideo.com Bride and GroomJust Married! Kenneth and Josephine Hamilton at The Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, May 4, 2019 Kenneth and Josephine HamiltonJust Married! Ken and Josie pose for a few portraits on the staircase leading up to their reception at The Grand Promenade. http://ariaphotovideo.com Bride and Groom at The AlamoBefore things got too crazy on the dance floor, we took a walk with Ken and Josie down to the Alamo to take a few night portraits. http://ariaphotovideo.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As a momtographer, I know all too well the challenges of getting the family together for a new family photo.  I am the proud mom of two boys.  Isaac is my creative, sweet, short-attention-span seven year old who can take an adorable photo, but will only give you five minutes.  Elijah is my almost-two-year-old, who loves the camera, but will also maybe give you five minutes of listening to directions being remotely interested in smiling for the lens.  So, you have to come prepared and you have to work fast, as my photographer friend Larry Pena recently found out when he took our most recent family picture!  I'll show you that soon!  But here's my helpful tips whether you're coming for a session with me, or setting up something at home in your living room.  

San Antonio Family PhotosHoliday Portraits for San Antonio Families

 

1.  Make a plan!

This is not something you can just do sporadically sometimes if you want it to be picture perfect.  Set a date, time and place and put together a plan of action.  Coordinate wardrobe and communicate to all parties involved.  Come up with a theme, like a pajama party or white winter set.  

Pajama Party!Put together a theme, such as matching pajamas or winter white for your holiday photos!

 

2.  Set up a fun and festive space!

Decorate a space that coordinates with your outfits or theme.  Props can be easily found in your own home or at stores like Home Goods, At Home, Michael's or Hobby Lobby!  If you're a photographer like me, invest in backdrops that can be used for multiple types of sessions.  Some of my favorites include Intuition Backgrounds by Becky Gregory, Kate Backdrop and Hazy Skies Designs.  Add in interactive props such as mugs for hot chocolate, or musical instruments, anything to keep those little ones interested in staying in the photo set.  

San Antonio Holiday Family Photo San Antonio Holiday Family Photo

If you're setting this up at home, clear the clutter and set up a fun space where you guys can all cuddle with cozy blankets and pillows! 

 

3.  Take care of everyone's needs!

I don't know many children OR adults interested in cooperating for a photo when they need a nap or a snack, or both!  Consider this if scheduling a professional photoshoot.  What time of day is your little one in their best moods?  I know all too well that 4 PM witching hour with a toddler, that is not a good time for Elijah!  But once he's had a nap and a snack he's good to go!  Take care of those needs first and they will be putty in your hands ready to smile for their close-up!

San Antonio MomMom and baby for their family photos

 

4.  Make it fun!

Get ready to interact with your kids, relax and have fun.  If you've hired a professional, let them take over and just follow their direction.  Many times we will talk to your kids, tell them funny jokes or ask them to do silly games just to get those fun and natural smiles out of them.  Play along and have fun.  Try not to scold children if they don't follow directions or if you think they are acting up.  Keep the mood light and remember that your kids are not performers, they're kids.  Let's capture who they are at this moment in time for you to treasure for years to come!

 

5.  A little reward goes a long way!

Ice cream, cookies, a trip to the playground, bean and cheese tacos!  You know what your kids would look forward to after a few minutes of following directions and smiling for the camera.  I also try to let kids know they're doing a good job and thank them for letting me take their photo.  A little praise and reward really does go a long way!

San Antonio Baby

So here are just a few of my tips for how to get those great family photos.  I used many of them for my family this year with success!  Let me know if these tips helped you in the comments and also if I can help you get some great family photos soon!  Cheers!

 

San Antonio BabyHoliday set by Kate Backdrop!

Book your family photoshoot!