Finding locations for lifestyle shoots is something I love. Driving all around the city, stopping in and roaming around random spots I see from the car, and writing down every cute place I visit is generally how I grow the location list. For bloggers, it’s so important to have a good location while shooting, something that fits their style but still lets them stand out.
The growing list of bloggers I work with are absolutely wonderful and put up with my terrible sense of fashion. They are always down for exploring new parts of the city with me. When I first started photographing them, I had no idea where to plan a shoot! After years of capturing these fashionable girls, I finally have my go to spots. I love that our city has so many varied restaurants, coffee shops, local stores, and parks to choose from when shooting. I could explore Austin for ten years and never come close to discovering all the hidden gems it offers.
Here are a few perfect blogger locations around Austin.
Le Politique
hhLe Politique. Oh my word, can I move into this space? From their restaurant and bar, to their coffee and pastry shop, to the exterior- this place is out of my Wes Anderson filled dreams. I am in love with the bright color palette mixed with neutrals. It makes a perfect spot to capture multiple outfits in quick succession. One thing to note, always make sure to ask before walking into a restaurant and taking photos. I know that may seem obvious, but it goes a long way to hand your business card to whoever is in charge and ask permission to shoot there in exchange for images. It shows a willingness to be a partner with them and could lead to future work. I’ve always had great responses to asking permission first! Le Politique was no exception, they gave us open access to the bar and coffee shop and were incredible to work with.
h.i Oh my word, can I move into this space? From their restaurant and bar, to their coffee and pastry shop, to the exterior- this place is out of my Wes Anderson filled dreams. I am in love with the bright color palette mixed with neutrals. It makes a perfect spot to capture multiple outfits in quick succession. One thing to note, always make sure to ask before walking into a restaurant and taking photos. I know that may seem obvious, but it goes a long way to hand your business card to whoever is in charge and ask permission to shoot there in exchange for images. It shows a willingness to be a partner with them and could lead to future work. I’ve always had great responses to asking permission first! Le Politique was no exception, they gave us open access to the bar and coffee shop and were i
Tiny Boxwoods
Tiny Boxwoods. This is another place that has been so accommodating. Their outdoor patio is insanely gorgeous but I actually love the interior lighting for shoots even more! They’re known for the gorgeous pink flowers on the side of the restaurant but their little bar area gives me life. They are fairly open in the mornings are early afternoon right when the lunch hours are ending. Their staff is incredibly friendly and their blueberry muffin is my favorite.
Halcyon
Halcyon. Goodness gracious, the lighting in this place is unreal. They have coffee, food, and cocktails so you will never be lacking for props at this place. It’s over in East Mueller and is always open to me shooting [granted, I still always ask first]. They have leather couches that are positioned in perfect light in the afternoons. They are usually packed so just be aware of guests and their experience as you move around.
Juliette's
Juliette’s Italian Kitchen. I shoot here all the time! If you ever drive down Barton Springs Road and see me with overalls on and a camera in hand, make sure to say hi! They make the cutest cocktails and their patio has a perfect space off to the side that makes taking photos easy. Their happy hour is packed so it’s best to go during off hours! I always tell my bloggers to bring multiple outfits here because they have an ivy covered wall, good natural walls all around, and a fun patio! It’s diverse and has plenty of shade.
Elizabeth Street Cafe
Elizabeth Street Cafe. How could this place not make the list? Their colors, delicious food, and adorable patio are all so fun to capture. It’s another hot spot so finding times they are open and not packed is key. I’ve been able to go in the morning and snag a spot inside to shoot but for the most part I stick outside when here with bloggers. The windows on the front patio are iconic as is the pink door. You can never go wrong shooting at Elizabeth St. Cafe!
Hank's
Hanks. This new space is quickly becoming one of my favorite locations. The mornings are the dreamiest lighting. The white walls are reflective and give off such a beautiful glow in images. Plus, the patio is long, giving a sense of privacy when shooting in the mornings. I never feel crowded when shooting here, even if the coffeeshop is bustling. They have a few spaces that have different feels, so you can get in three to four outfits when capturing a blogger here!
Those are a few of my favorite spots around town to capture my girls at! Featured bloggers: Adriana from Leopard Martini, Meg from The Autumn Girl, Yvan from Simply Yvan.