Best Photography Spots in Austin for Stunning Landscape Shots
Austin, Texas, is a paradise for landscape photographers, offering a mix of stunning natural scenery, urban beauty, and iconic Texas landmarks. Whether you’re a local photographer, a visitor looking for breathtaking views, or someone searching for high-quality Austin landscape photography prints, these spots are must-visits.
1. Pennybacker Bridge (360 Bridge Overlook)
Best Time to Shoot: Sunrise and golden hour
Why It’s Great: The bridge, set against the rolling Texas Hill Country, offers one of the most iconic shots in Austin.
Photography Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the bridge and surrounding landscape.
2. Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk
Best Time to Shoot: Evening for golden hour reflections on the water
Why It’s Great: Offers stunning skyline reflections and a mix of urban and natural beauty.
Photography Tip: Bring a tripod for long-exposure shots during twilight to enhance city lights.
3. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Best Time to Shoot: Spring and early morning for fewer crowds
Why It’s Great: Lush gardens, waterfalls, and Japanese-inspired scenery make this a fantastic spot for nature photography.
Photography Tip: Use a macro lens to capture intricate floral details and textures.
4. Barton Springs & Zilker Park
Best Time to Shoot: Mid-morning for soft lighting
Why It’s Great: Natural spring-fed pools and sprawling green space provide a mix of nature and recreation shots.
Photography Tip: Experiment with reflections on the water for creative compositions.
5. Mayfield Park & Nature Preserve
Best Time to Shoot: Morning for soft light and active wildlife
Why It’s Great: Historic gardens, peacocks, and shaded trails make for unique and colorful shots.
Photography Tip: Use a fast shutter speed to capture peacocks in motion or a wide aperture for dreamy bokeh effects.
7. McKinney Falls State Park
Best Time to Shoot: Early morning for waterfall shots
Why It’s Great: Waterfalls, limestone formations, and scenic trails make it a hidden gem for landscape photography.
Photography Tip: Use a neutral density (ND) filter to smooth out waterfall shots with long exposures.
8. Milton Reimers Ranch Park
Best Time to Shoot: Dawn or Dusk for the best lighting
Why It’s Great: The Pedernales River, limestone formations, and scenic trails for hiking, biking & horseback riding make it a hidden gem for landscape photography.
Photography Tip: Visit during or after rain for the best lighting conditions and water flow in the river.
9. Bluebonnet Fields (Seasonal – Spring)
Best Time to Shoot: March - May after heavy rains
Best Wildflower Fields: Pace Bend Park, Turkey Bend Recreation Area & Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area
Why It’s Great: Sprawling wildflower fields provide colorful backdrops, a variety of flowers and an abundance of wildlife.
Photography Tip: Wear boots, watch for snakes, and do not stop along the highway or on private property.
10. Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site
Best Time to Shoot: Can be great year round, with the exception of July-September with hotter weather.
Why It’s Great: Longhorn Cattle herd, Bison herd, working homestead, drive-through cattle ranch.
Photography Tip: Visit during the week for minimal crowds.
Get the Beauty of Austin in Your Home
If you love the stunning scenery of Austin, why not bring it into your home? Order high-quality Austin landscape photography prints from my online store. Each print captures the beauty of Texas in vivid detail, making the perfect addition to any home or office.
