If you’re planning a proposal or dreaming up your engagement session, Austin gives no shortage of gorgeous backdrops to choose from. Before we get into my favorite spots, know that the best location isn’t always the one all over Pinterest or the trendiest on social media. It’s the one that means something to you and your relationship.

I recently photographed an engagement session for a couple who had just moved to a new neighborhood here in Texas. Instead of chasing a trendy location, we shot part of their session at a park down the street from their new place, where they walk their pups every single day. These photos now hold such a special place for them, especially when they still walk that same location every day with their pups and have a reminder of their engagement session.

So, as you look through this list, think about if any of the locations might connect to your story. Or, if you’d love to make any of these locations a part of your story together!

Let’s get into it! Here are some of my favorite spots around Austin for proposals and engagement sessions.

Laguna Gloria

Laguna Gloria is located on the shores of Lake Austin and is a stunning location for engagements or proposals. It offers a romantic blend of historic European charm and lush Texas nature. From sculptures, to gardens, to the lake views, Laguna Gloria really has everything for those that love art and architecture, especially in The Driscoll Villa, The Sunken Garden, and along the waterfront.

If you’re looking for a unique location that offers a backdrop of romantic archways, lush gardens or a sunset by the water, I highly recommend taking a look at Laguna Gloria.

South Congress

Nothing says Austin quite like South Congress with its colorful murals, iconic storefronts and the laid-back Austin charm it gives. It’s been a favorite location for my Austin couples who truly want their photos to feel a little quirky, a little fun and full of personality. One of my personal favorite locations in South Congress for an engagement session was a stop at Home Slice Pizza. Because why not make your engagement session feel like an actual date?

The Capitol Building

History will be on full display with engagement photos at The Texas State Capitol! The architecture in this historical building is stunning and even though I’ve photographed quite a few couples here, every session is so unique depending on the couple, their personalities and the specific locations we shoot in.

LBJ Wildflower Center

For couples who want their photos to feel soft, natural and full of wildflowers (when they’re in bloom!), the LBJ Wildflower Center is an absolute dream location. It’s peaceful, lush and gives you a feeling of tranquility that many of my couples have loved for their engagements and proposals.

Lake Mueller Park

Your location never, ever has to be a specific, fancy landmark. This is the location I mentioned earlier with the couple and their pups, as this location meant something really special to them. And, now when they walk their pups daily, they can remember their engagement session here!

Consider Your Wedding Venue

If you already have your Austin wedding venue booked, you can always ask if they allow engagement sessions on-site. Many venues are happy to let you come back before your wedding day for photos and it can be such a sweet way to connect your engagement photos to your future wedding ones.

One of my couples chose to do their engagement session at Woodbine Mansion, their wedding venue. It made for such gorgeous, cohesive set of photos to go along with their wedding photos! Plus, what better way to become familiar and excited about your wedding venue?

How to Choose Your Austin Engagement or Proposal Spot

My advice as an Austin wedding and engagement photographer will always be the same: Pick the place that feels like you and not the place that’s trending. Whether that’s a park you walk your dog at every day, the restaurant where you had your first date or even an Austin landmark that you both love.

In fact, many of my couples choose to have their engagement photos or proposal photos done in their own home! The story behind the location is what makes your photos feel timeless.

And, if you’re not sure where to start, that’s exactly what I’m here for. I love being a resource for my couples when it comes to brainstorming locations, especially when it comes to specific location details, like fees and permits. I’d love to photograph your upcoming Austin engagement or proposal!