photography - Austin Senior Photographer | Stephanie Friedman Photography

Tips for a Senior Photo Session at the Long Center & Lady Bird Lake

admin — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 13:11:07 +0000

The perfect combo for seniors who want urban architecture, a downtown skyline, AND nature trails — all in one session. | Austin Senior Photography

Not every senior knows exactly where they want their photos taken. But this one did. When I asked him where he pictured his senior session, he said he wanted “forest trees plus the vibes of Downtown Austin.” That’s actually one of my favorite kinds of brief, because I know my top choice to answer: the Long Center combined with the Lady Bird Lake trails.

(Though I still mostly call it Town Lake – as anyone who’s lived in Austin for over 25 years might do).

A pre-session scouting guide I sent my Senior to help him decide on the location

These two locations sit right across the street from each other on the southern edge of downtown Austin, and together they give you something no single location can — the geometry of downtown architecture and skyline views from the Long Center, followed by the canopy trails and waterside light of the Barton Creek Greenbelt and Butler Hike and Bike Trail just steps away. In one session, you can look like you’re in a magazine editorial on the roof of the parking garage and then in a Texas state park as a more casual setting. That range is hard to beat.

If you’re an Austin senior who wants photos that feel both polished and natural — and you don’t want to drive to multiple different parts of the city to get them — this combination is worth serious consideration.

The Session: A Pivot That Made the Photos Better

Here’s something worth knowing about this particular location: always check the Long Center event calendar before your session — and then plan for the possibility that there might be an additional private event that isn’t listed.

That’s exactly what happened here. I’d checked the event page before this session and it looked clear. But when we arrived, there was a private event happening in the Rotunda. We couldn’t shoot there.

We pivoted to the rooftop instead.

Honestly? The rooftop gave us the same sweeping Austin skyline views as the Rotunda, but from a slightly different vantage point and with even more colorful backgrounds in the parking garage. It was one of those unexpected session moments that turns out better than the original plan.

After the Long Center portion, we walked across to the Lady Bird Lake trails as planned — wooden fencing along the path, the downtown skyline reflected in the water, and the kind of dappled evening light that makes late October sessions in Austin so good.

This senior came in with clear style instincts — he knew what he wanted to wear, how he wanted to feel in the photos, and what kind of backdrops would suit him. He also brought props that showcase his interests (like that basketball and guitar).

That combination of pre-session preparation and being willing to go with the flow when plans change is exactly what makes a session work. His photos turned out great, and we still got every backdrop he’d asked for.

If you’d also like to have a photo session at the Long Center and Lady Bird Lake, here are my tips below:

PARKING: There is some free parking at Auditorium Shores or you can pay for parking at the Long Center ($12/night when we went but the price can vary).
OPERATING HOURS: The Long Center doesn’t have fixed daily public operating hours.
LOCATIONS: Long Center: Main features include downtown Austin skyline views, interesting architecture of the Long Center, urban parking garage details. Lady Bird Lake/Auditorium Shores: Main features include waterside downtown views, wooden fencing along the trail, large grassy areas, greenery and trees.
RESTROOMS: There is a public restroom at Auditorium Shores.
EVENTS: Check the Long Center Event calendar to see if there are any conflicting events (but head’s up that there may be additional events that happen that aren’t listed).
NEARBY RESTAURANTS: If you’d like to go out for dinner after your photo session (and don’t want to re-park your car), some nearby favorites you can walk to include:

Terry Black’s BBQ — one of Austin’s best brisket spots, right on Barton Springs Road
El Alma — elevated Mexican food with a great patio
Sandy’s Hamburgers — an Austin classic; get a popular frozen custard while you’re there

DOG-FRIENDLY: Yes, you can bring your dog to a photo session at the Long Center Rotunda if they stay on-leash (and they can go off leash at the dog park across the street). .
WHAT TO BRING: It’s optional, but some prop ideas are listed HERE for Seniors. Also have some comfortable shoes since we have a lot of ground to cover between two locations.

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Is the Long Center + Lady Bird Lake Right for Your Senior Session?

This combination works best for seniors who:

Want both urban and natural backdrops without driving between multiple locations
Like a clean, architectural, editorial look alongside something more relaxed and outdoorsy
Are comfortable walking a half mile or more during a session
Are shooting in the late afternoon or evening, when the skyline and lake light are at their best
Want something distinctly Austin — not just any city skyline, but this one

It’s one of the most versatile senior photo locations in Austin, and because the two areas sit so close together, it doesn’t add time or logistical complexity to your session. Just two very different looks, right across the street from each other.

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Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Senior photo session in Austin, Texas. Explore more photo sessions on my blog.

Stephanie Friedman first picked up a camera in high school, went on to study photojournalism at the University of Texas (Hook ‘Em), then worked as a photo researcher in educational publishing for over 20 years.

Besides all that, she’s been photographing Families and Seniors for the last 10 years. You can count on her to be communicative and organized before your session. She’ll help you feel relaxed and confident during your session. And you’ll have a smile on your face after your session once you see your new photos.

Interested in Booking a Senior or Family Photo Session?

Contact Me

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Tips for a Senior Photo Session at the Long Center & Lady Bird Lake

Oct 15, 2026

The perfect combo for seniors who want urban architecture, a downtown skyline, AND nature trails — all in one session. | Austin Senior Photography Not every senior knows exactly where they want their photos taken. But this one did. When I asked him where he pictured...

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The post Tips for a Senior Photo Session at the Long Center & Lady Bird Lake appeared first on Austin Senior Photographer | Stephanie Friedman Photography.

Violet Crown Trail – Senior & Family Photos

admin — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 14:26:13 +0000

Tips for Senior & Family Photos on the Violet Crown Trail | South Austin

A birding senior, a grandparent’s inspiring photo wall, and a trail this family has walked for years — this is what a personal senior session looks like.

One of my favorite things about being an Austin senior photographer is that not every session looks the same. Some seniors want the downtown skyline. Some want wildflower fields. And some — like this Ann Richards School student — want the trail behind their neighborhood, the one their family has walked together since she was small. And it made a perfect backdrop to include her birding gear.

This student came prepared with binoculars, birding books and handmade field guide one-pagers for us to include.

For her setting, we walked along the Violet Crown Trail near the Wildflower Center. She even pointed out some birds in the trees as we went along.

If you’re a senior who loves the outdoors, birding, hiking, or just wants something more personal than a parking garage or popular landmark — this trail is worth considering.

This session was also a senior + family combo — her family joined us at the end for portraits together. And their coordinating bird-themed outfits? Perfect.

If you’re a senior who has a hobby, a passion, or a place that means something to you — bring it. The best senior sessions aren’t the ones with the most popular backdrops. The best senior sessions highlight you.

If you’d also like to have a photo session along the Violet Crown Trail, here are my tips below:

PARKING: There are multiple access points to different trailheads. We went to the one closest to the Wildflower Center (which has street parking on the eastern end of La Crosse Ave.)
OPERATING HOURS: Open from dawn to dusk. Portions of the trail may close after significant rain, so check their closures page for updates.
LOCATIONS: This part of the trail we were on had a canopy of trees, a small metal bridge and an accessible creekbed.
RESTROOMS: There are no nearby restrooms, so I brought my pop-up changing tent for outfit changes.
NEARBY RESTAURANTS: If you’d like to go out for dinner after your photo session, there are a lot of options along W. Slaughter Lane nearby such as: DeSano Pizzeria, Oasthouse Kitchen + Bar and Tacodeli.
DOG-FRIENDLY: Yes, you can bring your dog to a photo session on the trails.
WHAT TO BRING: It’s optional, but some prop ideas are listed HERE for Seniors. In the summer, pack bug spray and water.

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Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Senior + Family photo session in Austin, Texas that feels like you. Explore more photo sessions on my blog.

Client Feedback and Advice

What prompted you to have this photo session? My grandparents had hallways in their homes that were sort of “walls of honor” where they’d display all of their children and grandchildren’s milestone pictures: senior pictures, graduations, weddings. Growing up, I’d look at all the pictures of my parents, aunts, and uncles, so it was a big deal when I made the respective walls my senior year. It was important to me to get really good pictures of my daughter’s senior year as part of that tradition.
What do you plan to do with your digital photos? Some of them will become part of graduation announcements and family holiday cards. Some will be printed for our daughter’s graduation party; some may end up on a slideshow at the party as well, and some may end up on our own wall of honor some day.
How did you choose your location for your session? We chose the trails behind our neighborhood because we’ve been walking there as a family since our children were young. We walked there to unwind on tough days. We walked there during the pandemic, and to see snow during Winter Storm Uri. We’ve run there together as our daughter trained for cross country and for a half marathon. We’ve seen literal seasons and seasons of life there, so it felt like the right place to celebrate our daughter’s senior year.
What advice would you give to other High School Seniors planning a similar photo session? If you have a location that is special to you, talk to the photographer about it. We were very happy having our session in a space we knew well and felt comfortable in. There are plenty of senior pictures by Austin landmarks and in wildflower fields, and they look great, but I think we’ll be happy in future years looking back on our more personal session. I also highly recommend taking the time to work out your outfits ahead of time. Our daughter didn’t want anything very formal, but there were some odds and ends that we were glad we worked out ahead of time, like a belt that matched her shoes.
5. Anything else you’d like to add about working with Stephanie Friedman Photography? Our daughter wasn’t enthused with the idea of portraits at first; she thought they were that they were over-the-top extravagances that wouldn’t suit more outdoors and casual style. But we had fun during our session with Stephanie. She worked with us on a comfortable location for our daughter and chatted with her amicably throughout. She also included props that mattered to our daughter, especially her bird books and birding binoculars.

Interested in Booking a Senior or Family Photo Session?

Contact Me

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Tips for a Senior Photo Session at Sekrit Theater

admin — Sat, 26 Sep 2026 13:20:26 +0000

How to make the most out of your Sekrit Theater Photo Shoot | Austin Senior Photographer

If you’re a High School Senior who appreciates vintage items and whimsical locations, then Sekrit Theater could be the spot for you.

This East Austin artspace rental (location fees start at $130/hour) has an iconic glass greenhouse (usually covered in climbing ivy most of the year) that makes a fantastic setting.

You can also take photos by their old yellow schoolbus, rusty pick-up truck or lots of other weathered doors and bicycles. Everywhere you look are different artistic vignettes to use as backdrops.

Located near the Boggy Creek Greenbelt, this multi-acre venue has an Old Austin aesthiectic.

And hopefully their rainbow fake flower wall will get repaired soon; that spot has been a past favorite on mine.

And how perfect were this senior’s yellow cowboy boots with the rusty truck? And I loved that she wore her grandmother’s wedding dress for the greenhouse photos.

If you’d also like to have a photo session at Sekrit Theater, here are my tips below:

PARKING: There is street parking right in front of the entrance.
OPERATING HOURS: You’ll be given a one hour time slot. Sessions are usually booked back to back to don’t expect to go over on your time. This popular spot also books up fast during peak months and times – so request it early to make sure you’re guaranteed a spot
LOCATIONS: Main features include the glass greenhouse, flower covered swing, rusty vehicles and front gardens.
RESTROOMS: There is a restroom and changing room on site.
BOOKING: You must book your session ahead of time. There is a location fee.
NEARBY RESTAURANTS: If you’d like to go out for dinner after your photo session at Sekrit Theater, some nearby favorites include: Space Cowboy, Michlethwait BBQ, and Tamale House East.
DOG-FRIENDLY: Yes, you can bring your dog to a photo session at Sekrit Theater if they stay on-leash.
WHAT TO BRING: It’s optional, but some prop ideas are listed HERE for Seniors. In the summer, pack bug spray and water.

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Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Senior photo session in Austin, Texas. Explore more photo sessions on my blog.

Client Feedback and Advice

What prompted you to have this photo session? High school Senior photos.
What do you plan to do with your digital photos? Create my high school grad announcements and probably some social media posts
How did you choose your location for your session? I really like vintage and antique stores. When I was looking for a location I searched for unique photography locations. I also knew I wanted to wear my grandmother’s 70s wedding dress, so Sekrit theater felt like it had the perfect vibe to go along with it.
What advice would you give to other High School Seniors planning a similar photo session?
It was pretty hot so I’d recommend waiting later into the fall if they want outdoor pics.

5. Anything else you’d like to add about working with Stephanie Friedman Photography?

Very efficient, creative ideas for the pics, she’s good at giving you instructions for how to pose.

Interested in Booking a Senior or Family Photo Session?

Contact Me

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Altovector Technologies – Branding Photo Session

admin — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 15:56:48 +0000

Altovector Technologies | Austin Business Branding Photographer

Altovector Technologies is an Austin-based, woman-owned technology company focused on government and public-sector IT. They recently launched their website and needed branding photos.

For their branding session, we talked first to discuss what they had in mind.

The Branding Request

They needed a photo collection for the Altovector website, LinkedIn, capability statements, proposals, presentations, and other marketing and business-development materials.

Their shot list included:

Individual professional portraits/headshots of both founders
A few individual environmental/branding portraits
Leadership photos of the two of them together
Natural working/collaboration shots — for example, reviewing something on a laptop or discussing technology/strategy

Pre-Production Work

So, I got to work creating a mood board and scouting locations.

From our discussions, we narrowed down their location to an office rental space in downtown Austin. I sent them annotated screenshots to help plan which area would be used for each set-up.

Production Day

I had sent a timeline earlier that week to keep us organized. That way the clients knew which props and outfits they needed at each point in the day.

We met at the office the morning of the photo shoot to walk the space together, and then we got to photographing.

Moving between two floors and various offices, conference rooms and the breakroom, we got a variety of content for their business needs.

Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to discuss your own Business Branding photo session in Austin, Texas. Explore more photo sessions on my blog.

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Client Feedback and Advice

What prompted you to have this photo session? My partner and I recently launched Altovector Technologies, and we wanted professional branding photography that felt polished and credible while still looking like us. As a new company, it was important to have strong imagery for our website and other materials that helps communicate who we are and the kind of company we’re building.
What do you plan to do with your digital photos? We’ll primarily use them across the Altovector website, LinkedIn, capability statements, proposals, presentations, and other marketing and business-development materials.
How did you choose your location for your session? We wanted a modern professional setting with a clean, sophisticated Austin feel. The space gave us a nice variety of backgrounds while still keeping the focus on us and the brand. Stephanie is the one who found great options for us to choose from.
What advice would you give to others planning a similar Branding photo session? Think ahead about how and where you’ll actually use the photos. We planned around our website, individual headshots, photos of us together, and images that could work across different business materials. I’d also recommend bringing several outfit options and trusting your photographer’s eye once you’re there. Researching other business website in similar industry and seeing their visuals is also very good inspiration.
Anything else you’d like to add about working with Stephanie Friedman Photography? Stephanie made the entire process incredibly easy and comfortable. She gave just the right amount of direction while still allowing the photos to feel natural, and she understood exactly what we were trying to accomplish with our brand. We left the session feeling really excited about what we had created together.

Interested in Booking a Photo Session?

Contact Me

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Senior + Family Photos – Waterloo Greenway Park

admin — Sat, 05 Sep 2026 13:45:17 +0000

Austin Senior Portrait Session at Waterloo Park | Austin Senior & Family Photographer

Planning your High School Senior Photos in Austin and need an outdoor stage? Or a backdrop that works well for headshots? Do you want some greenery as well as some interesting architecture? Then be like this student and pick Waterloo Greenway Park.

This 11-acre greenspace is located in Downtown Austin near the state capitol building. Scenic sections include the Moody Amphitheater, native gardens and over 1.5 miles of trails. The park will also be expanding in the future.

If you’d like to have your Senior Portrait Session at Waterloo Greenway, check out my advice and recommendations below.

Tips for a photo session at Waterloo Park:

EVENTS CALENDAR: Check out their Events calendar in case of conflicts. And FYI: there might still be events that happen that aren’t listed. For this Senior, there was a 500 person race that started just after her session ended. Luckily the organizers were considerate, and the park is big enough to share the space. It also helped that we started early in the morning when they were still setting up.
PARKING: There are meters for street parking (free after 6pm). I recommend the Capitol Visitor’s Parking Garage (parking is free for the first two hours unless there’s a special event)
OPERATING HOURS: The park is open from 5am-10pm.
LOCATIONS: I like to take photos behind and on the Moody Amphitheater stage. There are also lots of lovely gardens to explore. For younger kids, there are a few pieces of climbing equipment and a slide to play on. And since they water, the greenery looks lush year-round.
RESTROOMS: There is a public restroom you can use to change outfits in.
NEARBY RESTAURANTS: If you’d like to go out for dinner after your photo session, some nearby options include the classic Texas Chili Parlor, the upscale Roaring Fork and Stubb’s BBQ.
DOG-FRIENDLY: Yes, as long as they are on leash.
WHAT TO BRING: It’s optional, but some prop ideas are listed HERE for Seniors.

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Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Senior + Family combo photo session in Austin, Texas. Explore more photo sessions on my blog.

Client Feedback and Advice

What prompted you to have this photo session? Sophie needed additional portfolio pictures, as well as Senior pictures. And then we decided to also do some family photos, as well!
What do you plan to do with your digital photos? I will use them for Sophie’s graduation announcement and yearbook submissions, and we will also use a family photos for our holiday card and to frame for gifts.
How did you choose your location for your session? Sophie wanted a mix of nature and industrial, and so the park and stage were perfect. It was a great suggestion, we had never been there!
What advice would you give to others planning a similar Senior + Family photo session? Plan your outfits ahead! Stephanie takes care of literally everything else!
Anything else you’d like to add about working with Stephanie Friedman Photography? We have done family and senior photos before, but never as professional and organized as with Stephanie. She had everything planned and prepared. She had a dressing tent, fans to keep us cool, hair ties, water, anything we could have needed. It was an extremely fun, efficient and professionally planned photo shoot. We could not be more impressed.

Interested in Booking a Senior Photo Session?

Contact Me

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Fun Things to do in Austin – September 2026

admin — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 16:46:43 +0000

Cathedral of Junk, Free Day of Yoga and BubblePalooza | September Newsletter links

Happy September!

Looking for ways to enjoy the Back to School season in Austin?

See below for some fun places to visit, events to attend and classes to sign up for.

And if you’d like an anytime Fall Activity List, check out this blog post.

September spotlight

Visit the Cathedral of Junk in South Austin for a perfect Keep Austin Weird experience. Make sure you call first to see when they’re open that week. It’s three floors of the best artistic junk.

September EVENTS

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Bat Fest on Sept. 5th with music and nearly 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats. Don’t forget about the Bat Costume Contest for Adults and Kids ($100 prize each).

Bring your favorite magic-lover to see Houdini’s Library at the Harry Ranson Center (on display until 1/24/27)

Stretch and breathe at multiple locations for the Free Day of Yoga on Sept. 7th.

Spend an evening stargazing at the West Cave monthly star party on Sept. 12th.

Horns up as UT Football season starts with home games on Sept. 5th, 12th and 19th

See Treasure Island reimagined at the State Theater on Sept. 18th and 19th. Did you see Intergalatic Nemesis when it came out in 1996 or onstage in 2010? – this is the same group.

Watch something new at Fantastic Fest for 8 days of screenings in September (17th-24th) with the Alamo Drafthouse.

Take your kids to BubblePalooza Community Day at the Long Center on Sept. 19th. Expect live music, food trucks and lots of bubbles. Tip: dress your kid in a bathing suit and then go to the fountain at Butler Park next door after the event.

See lots of art on the free Austin Museum Day on Sept. 20th. Over 30 local Museums will be participating.

Experience a Latino Moonlight Serenade from the water with the Texas Rowing Center on Sept. 24th.

Rent a canoe and see the immersive show Waterwork on Sept. 26th and 27th on the side of the Seaholm Intake Facility from the water.

The new amusement park COTA Land opens on Sept. 26th at the Circuit of the Americas. They have rides for all ages (and various levels of thrills).

Lace up your running shoes for the Violet Crown Trail Fun Run on Sept. 26th.

Fill your bag with new books at the Independent Book Fair on Sept. 27th at Radio/East.

September CLASSES

Sip & Paint at Meanwhile Brewing and go how with a new piece of art on Sept. 16th.

Take a Letterpress workshop and make your own unique lobby movie poster on Sept. 19th.

Create beautiful pretzels on Sept. 20th at Barton Springs Mill (in Dripping Springs). Or make NY Pizza there for a Date night on Sept. 4th. Or take your kid to make banana bread with you on Sept. 5th.

It’s your move when you join a weekly game night (Chess on the second and fourth Mondays or Backgammon on the first and third Tuesdays) at the Victorian Knights Club upstairs at the Driskill

Try your hand at Ikebana, the Japanese art of floral design (multiple dates available starting Sept. 22nd) at Tonari by Uroko.

Learn to two-step at Sagebrush on Tuesday nights.

September VOLUNTEERING

Bake birthday cakes for the Saint Louise House residents with Austin Allies on Sept. 8th or Sept. 21st.

Sort produce for the HOPE Food Pantry on Sept. 9th with Generation Serve.

Help clean up Lady Bird Lake with Keep Austin Beautiful on Sept. 2nd.

Work in the Community Butterfly Garden at Zilker Botanical Gardens on Sept. 1st. Or you could sign up to monitor and photograph their native bees.

September PHOTO SESSIONS

If you’d like to book a Senior or Family Photo Session this Fall, reach out and let me know, my calendar is ready for booking dates from September to December 2026.

Have fun and stay cool

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Stephanie Friedman first picked up a camera in high school, went on to study photojournalism in college (Hook ‘Em), then worked as a photo researcher in educational publishing for over 20 years.

During all that, she’s been photographing Families and Seniors for the last 10 years. You can count on her to be communicative and organized before your session. She’ll help you feel relaxed and confident during your session. And you’ll have a smile on your face after your session once you see your new photos.

Interested in Booking a Photo Session?

Contact Me

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Senior Year Planner – Austin To Do List

admin — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 17:48:25 +0000

High School Senior Year To Do List | Austin, Texas

Ready to make the most of your last year of High School?

High School Seniors (and your Parents):

See below for a month by month checklist of To Dos and Fun to Go Tos for 2026-2027 School Year.

August

8/1/26 – Common App for College applications opens
8/18/26 – First Day of School at AISD! Take a photo to remember it by
Go swim in Barton Springs to cool off with friends
Plan a Senior Sunrise meet-up with Friends

September

Book your Senior Photos for Fall
Work on your Early Decision College Applications and Essays
Watch the Bats come out from the S. Congress St. Bridge
Go paddleboard around Lady Bird Lake
Get dressed up with friends and go to your Homecoming

October

10/1/26 – FAFSA Student Aid opens for 2027-2028
10/2-10/4 & 10/9-10/11 – Go to the ACL Music Festival
Cheer on your school at a game
Go to the Texas Renaissance Festival
Continue to work on your College Applications and Essays

November

11/14-11/15/26 – Go to the Texas Book Festival
Submit College Applications (some Early Decisions are due Nov. 1st)
Hike the Greenbelt
Volunteer at a food bank or toy drive

December

Walk the Trail of Lights
Submit College Applications (some Regular Admissions are due around Dec. 1st)
Tour Colleges on Winter Break

January

Book Senior Photos for the Spring
Go on a BBQ road trip
Listen to music at an all-ages venue in Austin
Research available scholarships

February

Buy some spray paint and leave your mark on HOPE Outdoor Gallery
See how many iconic Austin murals you can visit in one day (start on S. Congress)
Go camping with friends

March

3/15-3/21 – Go to (or volunteer at) SXSW for music, movies and interactive events
Visit Rodeo Austin for music, prorodeo events and a huge carnival
Go see the bluebonnets and get your photo taken in them
Tour Colleges on Spring Break

April

Celebrate Eeyore’s Birthday Party at Pease Park
Dress up and go to Prom
See the Spring wildflower at the Wildflower Center
Write a Thank you note to your favorite teacher

May

Study for your AP Classes and Final Exams
Schedule a Senior Sunset meet-up with Friends
Do an Elementary School Senior Walk
Write a Letter to your Future Self
Sign as many yearbooks as possible
Plan a Graduation Party
Happy Last Day of High School!

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Please contact me if you’d like to book a Senior portrait session in Austin, Texas this school year.

Ready to book your High School Senior photo session?

Contact Me

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Tips for a Senior Photo Session at Auditorium Shores

admin — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 14:25:13 +0000

Tips for Photo Sessions at Vic Mathias Shores | Austin Senior Photographer

One of the questions on my Senior intake form is: Do you have any location preferences?

This High School Senior told me she definitely wanted to get some photos with the Wonder Woman Mural at the LINE Hotel.

Since I’ve never included this mural in any of my previous photo sessions, I needed to do some location scouting first. So, I went to South Austin to see what else might be scenic around the mural, also keeping in mind:

Where are good parking options?
How far would we need to walk between locations?
Could we get a mix of urban and nature backgrounds?

After this pre-session research, I recommended we park and meet at Vic Mathias Shores (aka Auditorium Shores).

This 57 acre park is located in South Austin right next to Lady Bird Lake. We could walk across the S. 1st Bridge to get mural and downtown skyline photos. Then we could go back to the park for some nature shots on the Hike-and-Bike Trail.

Austin Skyline from the S. 1st St. Bridge

We also made sure to get some photos celebrating where she’s going to college.

Having her “guns up” for Texas Tech

This family was great about brinding a variety of props to the Senior Session. We got to take photos with her cello, her cap and gown and a photo of her from kindergarten.

If you’d also like to have a photo session around Auditorium Shores, here are my tips below:

PARKING: There is limited free parking at the Vic Mathias lot and along W. Riverside drive. (It fills up fast with runners parking for the Trail). There is also paid parking at the Long Center across the street.
OPERATING HOURS: The park is open from 5am-10pm daily.
LOCATIONS: Main features include Downtown Austin skyline views from the bridge and the trail.
RESTROOMS: There are public restrooms next to the parking lot of Vic Mathias Shores you can use to change outfits in. (Or you can also change outfits in your car)
EVENTS: Keep an eye on local event calendars to make sure there aren’t major conflicts at Audiorium Shores or the Long Center.
NEARBY RESTAURANTS: If you’d like to go out for dinner after your photo session at Auditorium Shores, some nearby favorites include: Terry Black’s BBQ, Mexican Restaurant El Alma, and walk up or drive-through Sandy’s Hamburgers.
DOG-FRIENDLY: Yes, this park is definitely dog-friendly. In fact, Auditorium Shores is an off-leash dog zone at the western end. (So keep that in mind if you’re allergic).
WHAT TO BRING: It’s optional, but some prop ideas are listed HERE for Seniors.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Senior photo session in Austin, Texas. Explore more photo sessions on my blog.

Client Feedback and Advice

What prompted you to have this photo session? My daughter will be a senior for the 26-27 SY and we wanted to make sure to book her Senior Photo session early so we can use the photos all year long.
What do you plan to do with your digital photos? We will use them for her graduation announcement and anything to do with Senior year. I will also use them as I plan out her senior year activities. I also wanted to capture her for this monumental event so I can have the photos for the future.
How did you choose your location for your session?We chose the locations because they hold personal meaning to the Senior. Each spot holds a special memory of her childhood, which we believe makes them the perfect setting for her senior photos.
What advice would you give to other High School Seniors planning a similar photo session?
My senior’s advice to other seniors would be to choose a location that’s meaningful to you. Don’t pick a spot just because it looks pretty, make sure that spot holds a special message or story for you.

My advice is to do research because there are so many resources out there to help guide what you want…to wear, to bring, to prepare, to pose.

5. Anything else you’d like to add about working with Stephanie Friedman Photography?

Working with Stephanie Friedman was a great experience. Her prices were fair and the photos on her site were beautiful.

From my Senior: Senior photos can be stressful and awkward, but Stephanie made our photo session run smoothly with an up-beat and positive attitude. She was very helpful when deciding the best poses and was prepared for anything. From my senior…”I’ll always be grateful to have shared my senior pictures experience with her.”

Interested in Booking a Senior or Family Photo Session?

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Elementary Graduation – 360 Overlook Session

admin — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:13:38 +0000

Tips for Photo Sessions at the 360 Overlook | Austin Senior Photographer

This group of nine 5th graders wanted to celebrate graduating Elementary School together. So we met at the top of the 360 bridge overlook.

I loved that one of the moms made sure everyone had 2026 sunglasses, matching caps and stoles (in pink, of course) to wear for some of the group photos.

The 360 Overlook is located in Southwest Austin next to the 360 Bridge. You’ll park on the side of the 360 highway and take a short 10 minute rocky climb straight up.

If you’d also like to have a photo session at the top of the 360 Overlook, here are my tips below:

PARKING: There is illegal parking on the unpaved shoulder of Loop 360 (but that’s where everyone parks). You can also park back in the neighborhood, but it’s a longer walk to the trailhead.
OPERATING HOURS: The area is open 24 hours day/7 days a week. Weekends are more crowded.
LOCATIONS: Main features include the view from the top of the overlook. I think the light looks best for sunset sessions. It’s about 0.5 miles out and back.
RESTROOMS: There are no nearby restrooms.
SAFETY: Wear good hiking shoes (or change into cuter shoes at the top). The limestone path up is best with close-toed sturdy shoes. Also, there are no guardrails at the top – so be very careful at the edge. The cliff drops straight down. There are frequent break-ins at the parking spots as well – so don’t leave any valuables in sight.
NEARBY RESTAURANTS: If you’d like to go out for dinner after your photo session at the Overlook, some nearby favorites off of 360 include: County Line on the Lake (BBQ), Jack Allen’s Kitchen (Southern Comfort food) and Maudie’s Milagro (Tex-Mex).
DOG-FRIENDLY: Yes, this area is definitely dog-friendly if your dog is a good climber and on a leash.
WHAT TO BRING: It’s optional, but some prop ideas are listed HERE for families and HERE for Seniors.

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Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Senior or Family photo session in Austin, Texas. Explore more photo sessions on my blog.

Interested in Booking a Senior or Family Photo Session?

Contact Me

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Butler Park – Senior + Family Portrait Session

admin — Sun, 17 May 2026 17:43:22 +0000

Tips for Photo Sessions at Butler Park | Austin Senior and Family Photographer

This High School Senior was looking for a nature setting in South Austin for her combination Senior + Family photo session this Spring.

One of the spots I recommended was Butler Park.

This park is located in South Austin next to the Long Center. It has great Downtown Austin skyline views and three small docks overlooking a pond. We met on a Monday night so it wasn’t very crowded at the park.

Since the splash pad was running (it’s generally open year round and usually on from 10am-10pm), we ended her photo session among the jets. (I did have to photoshop out a few children splashing around in the background, but that’s to be expected).

We also made sure to get some photos celebrating where she’s going to college in the Fall.

And check out in the Gallery below all the creative ways they made an “N” for their photos.

If you’d also like to have a photo session at Butler Park, here are my tips below:

PARKING: There is a small paid parking lot off of Barton Springs Road. Use the Park ATX app to pay Monday-Friday from 8am-5pm and on Saturdays from 12pm-5pm. If the parking lot is full, you can also look for street parking along Riverside Dr. or in the pay lot at the Long Center.
OPERATING HOURS: The park is open from 5am-10pm daily.
LOCATIONS: Main features include the Doug Sahm Hill (with those downtown Austin skyline views), an open meadow, walking trails, three docks overlooking the pond and some flower beds.
RESTROOMS: There are public restrooms near the Alliance Children’s Garden you can use to change outfits in. (Or you can also change outfits in your car)
EVENTS: Keep an eye on local event calendars to make sure there aren’t major conflicts nearby at the Palmer Events Center or the Long Center.
NEARBY RESTAURANTS: If you’d like to go out for dinner after your photo session at Butler Park, some nearby favorites include: Terry Black’s BBQ, Mexican Restaurant El Alma, and walk up or drive-through Sandy’s Hamburgers.
DOG-FRIENDLY: Yes, this park is definitely dog-friendly.
WHAT TO BRING: It’s optional, but some prop ideas are listed HERE for families and HERE for Seniors.

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Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Senior photo session in Austin, Texas. Explore more photo sessions on my blog.

Client Feedback and Advice

What prompted you to have this photo session?I asked for referrals from friends who also had seniors and your name came up. I checked out your site, and you had availability on our timeline.
What do you plan to do with your digital photos? We’ll use them to create announcements for her graduation and grad party. We’ll also share them with family who are out of state.
How did you choose your location for your session?My senior had a preference for nature, and we wanted some with the city skyline. Stephanie recommended the perfect place that worked for both!
What advice would you give to other High School Seniors planning a similar photo session?Be flexible and prepared to have fun and maybe be a little goofy. The goal is to capture your senior in their element and celebrate how we’ve all made it to senior year!
Anything else you’d like to add about working with Stephanie Friedman Photography? Working with Stephanie was incredibly easy. From scheduling to meeting up at the location, the emails and texts made it simple and low stress.

Interested in Booking a Senior or Family Photo Session?

Contact Me

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