If you’re envisioning a quintessential Texas engagement session, consider taking your photos in the stunning bluebonnet fields throughout our state. Coleman and Camila wanted a beautiful outdoor setting that featured bluebonnet flowers, and the recreation area at Muleshoe Bend was the perfect fit.
After meeting at University of Texas in 2017, Coleman and Camila became friends which slowly blossomed into their forever. They enjoy so many activities together, from cozy movie nights at home and cooking, to swing dancing, and even to rockclimbing!
During their session, we focused on taking photos that not only showcase their love for one another, but also their playful and sweet personalities. I loved spending time with them and soaking in the joy that they felt about their upcoming marriage.
Bluebonnet Season
Bluebonnets are wildflowers, and in wide open spaces all over the state of Texas. If you’re dreaming of frolicking in bluebonnet fields for your engagement photos, it’s almost the ideal time of year to get the most gorgeous blooms. Late March and early April is the peak of bluebonnet season where you’ll find the fullest fields throughout the area. This is also a great time of year to take outdoor photos because the temperature is still manageable without being too overwhelming or hot.
Local Bluebonnet Fields
There are many options for taking photos nestled in the Texas bluebonnets around San Antonio and Austin, but some of the best fields do require a little bit of a drive. Read through to learn more about my favorite local spots.
Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area
The Muleshoe Bend Recreation area is one of my favorite spots to take photos surrounded by bluebonnets—you can see from Coleman and Camila’s engagement session that there are flowers as far as the eye can see! There are also water views at this location which create gorgeous images, but due to the water levels, there is a possibility that it may be hit or miss depending on the season.
Brushy Creek Lake Park
This park is located in Cedar Park, Texas, and it’s one of my absolute favorites for finding lush bluebonnet fields that are the perfect backdrop for photos. Brushy Creek Lake Park is extremely popular with locals and tourists alike to see the beautiful bluebonnets, so traffic volume is important to keep in mind when planning your visit. It’s a free park and right on the water, so after your photo session, you can have an afternoon of enjoying the scenery and exploring the property.
McKinney Falls State Park
This park is one of my favorites because it offers so much in a convenient location. It has water views, bird watching, hiking trails, scenic views, and a beautiful wildflower field (including bluebonnet flowers!). One thing to keep in mind is that this park fills up quickly since it’s located so close to the Austin, Texas airport. If you’re planning on choosing this spot, make sure you book a reservation ahead of time.
Lady Bird Johson Wildflower Center
This botanical garden is one of the best places to take photos with the bluebonnets, but it does require a fee for formal photography. That means if you want to visit and snap a few photos for your social media, there’s no charge. However, if we want to hold your engagement session on their property we need to pay in addition to the entry fee. On weekdays, the fee is $100, but on weekends and during off-hours the fee is $250.
There are plenty of beautiful parks and bluebonnet fields that are either free or having a low-cost entry fee, so unless your heart is set on the Lady Bird Johnon Wildflower Center, it doesn’t land in my number 1 spot.
Circle C Ranch Park
During peak bluebonnet season, Circle C Ranch Park is one of the best places to visit. There are a ton of bluebonnets throughout the park, so you’re sure to get a good spot for your photo session. This park is also free to enter, so there will be a higher volume of parkgoers to keep in mind.
Mission Reach
To find Texas bluebonnets close to San Antonio, Mission Reach is a great choice. Featuring historical landmarks, hiking, canoeing, and hot springs, it offers a full day of activity that you can enjoy following your session. It’s an 8-mile linear park that is truly a hidden gem in San Antonio, and will a serene and romantic location to celebrate your engagement.
Notes
While there are beautiful bluebonnet fields in our area, there are also many other places to explore if you’d rather go farther from home. I’ve also discovered a few other locations I’d love to share that are my go-to spots for taking photos surrounded by a variety of colorful wildflowers, including bluebonnets.
To capture the best images, prepare for your session by choosing clothing that will complement the bluebonnet colors rather than compete with them. More muted shades of blue can look beautiful, as well as pops of warm colors or a neutral palette. Just make sure that your clothing choices are coordinated to each other so all of the images look cohesive!
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Looking for the best places to propose in San Antonio is a huge challenge. Well, you’re in luck! As a San Antonio wedding photographer, I am listing all of the best photo spots in San Antonio. This amazing city is full of history and stunning attractions, making for the perfect backdrop to your special moment. Get ready for an unforgettable proposal experience. Check out these top locations to pop the question in San Antonio and keep reading along for proposal ideas in San Antonio.
Where to Propose in San Antonio
- River Walk
The River Walk is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. This urban waterway is lined with restaurants, shops, and rich foliage, making it a perfect place for a romantic stroll and a surprise proposal.
Website: https://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/
Address: San Antonio, TX 78205 (The Riverwalk spans several miles through downtown San Antonio)
2. Tower of the Americas
For a breathtaking view of the city, consider proposing at the Tower of the Americas. The observation deck offers panoramic views of the city, making it an ideal location to get down on one knee and propose.
Website: https://www.toweroftheamericas.com/
Address: 739 E Cesar E. Chavez Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78205
3. Japanese Tea Garden
The Japanese Tea Garden is a peaceful spot that is perfect for a proposal. The garden features beautiful landscapes, water features, and calming bridges, making it a scenic location to start your forever.
Address: 3853 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
4. San Antonio Botanical Garden
The San Antonio Botanical Garden is a rich and tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. With colorful blooms, whimsical structures, and a peaceful pond, this location is perfect for a proposal surrounded by natural beauty.
Website: https://www.sabot.org/
Address: 555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209
5. Hays Street Bridge
Elevate your proposal to new heights on the iconic Hays Street Bridge, with its breathtaking views of the city skyline and the charming East Side neighborhood.
Website: https://www.haysstreetbridge.com/
Address: 803 N Cherry St, San Antonio, TX 78202
6. San Fernando Cathedral
Propose in front of the historic San Fernando Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the state of Texas, with its stunning architecture and intricate stained glass windows.
Website: https://sfcathedral.org/
Address: 115 W Main Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205
7. McNay Art Museum
Make your proposal a masterpiece at the McNay Art Museum, surrounded by beautiful sculptures, rich gardens, and the Spanish Colonial Revival-style mansion that houses an impressive collection of art.
Website: https://www.mcnayart.org/
Address: 6000 N New Braunfels Ave, San Antonio, TX 78209
8. Hotel Emma
Indulge in luxury and charm at Hotel Emma, a historic boutique hotel located in the Pearl District, where you can propose in an atmosphere of old-world elegance and enjoy the mesmerizing riverside views.
Website: https://www.thehotelemma.com/
Address: 136 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215
9. Confluence Park
Embrace the beauty of nature at Confluence Park, where the San Antonio River and San Pedro Creek meet, offering a unique and sustainable outdoor environment perfect for a proposal surrounded by native plants and innovative architecture.
Website: https://www.confluencepark.org/
Address: 310 W Mitchell St, San Antonio, TX 78204
10. San Antonio Museum of Art
Combine art and romance as you propose amidst the captivating exhibits and galleries of the San Antonio Museum of Art, showcasing diverse art collections from around the world within a stunning historic building.
Website: https://www.samuseum.org/
Address: 200 W Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
11. Landa Library
Create an intimate and cozy proposal at Landa Library, nestled in the heart of the historic Monte Vista neighborhood, featuring a charming outdoor garden, a beautiful gazebo, and a calming atmosphere.
Website: https://www.mysapl.org/locations/landa
Address: 233 Bushnell Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212
San Antonio Proposal Ideas
If you’re drawing a blank on how to actually propose, don’t worry. You are not alone! This is a big deal and it’s important to get it right. With that said – here are a few San Antonio proposal ideas that work for just about anyone.
Set Up a Picnic
Create a romantic and intimate atmosphere by setting up a picnic in a picturesque location. Decorate with fairy lights, flowers, and a cozy blanket, and pack a delicious meal with your partner’s favorite treats.
Estimated cost: $50-$100.
Start planning at least 2 weeks in advance to scout for the perfect location and gather all the necessary supplies.
Take a Hike Together
Plan a surprise proposal during a scenic hike in a natural park or trail that holds significance for you as a couple. Find a beautiful lookout point along the hike, get down on one knee, and pop the question surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Estimated cost: Free (unless there are park entrance fees).
Start planning a month in advance to research hiking routes, prepare any necessary permits, and ensure you have the appropriate gear.
Recreate Your First Date
Take a trip down memory lane and recreate the magic of your first date. Reserve the same restaurant or choose a similar activity or location, and surprise your partner with a heartfelt proposal during this nostalgic experience.
Estimated cost: Varies depending on the chosen activity or location.
Start planning at least 2-4 weeks in advance to make reservations and coordinate the details.
Make a Candlelit Path
Set the stage for a romantic proposal by creating a path illuminated with candles leading to a special spot, such as a beach, garden, or backyard. The soft glow of the candles will create a magical ambiance as you ask the question of a lifetime.
Estimated cost: $30-$50.
Start planning a week in advance to gather the candles, ensure proper lighting arrangements, and prepare the path.
Propose in a Park with Loved Ones at a Safe Distance Away
Organize a heartfelt proposal in a park or outdoor space where your loved ones can be present, while maintaining a safe distance. Arrange for them to be hidden or seated nearby as you pop the question, and celebrate your love together afterward.
Estimated cost: Free
Start planning at least 2-4 weeks in advance to coordinate with your loved ones, choose the park location, and ensure everyone’s availability.
Wine Tour
Plan a memorable proposal during a wine tour at a local vineyard or winery. Enjoy a romantic wine tasting experience and, at a carefully chosen moment, express your love and propose amidst the vineyards’ scenic beauty.
Estimated cost: $100-$200 (including wine tasting fees).
Start planning 2-3 months in advance to research and book the wine tour, and consider any additional elements you may want to incorporate, such as personalized wine labels or a private tasting session.
Ready to make your San Antonio proposal happen? Don’t forget the photos.
As a San Antonio Proposal Photographer, I would be thrilled to be a part of your journey and help you document your perfect proposal. From scouting the ideal location to discreetly capturing the surprise and joy on your partner’s face, my goal is to provide you with timeless photographs that you can cherish for a lifetime. Let’s work together to create a seamless and memorable experience as you embark on this new chapter.
Contact me today, and let’s start planning your picture-perfect proposal!
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