Tips for Photo Sessions in the Blanton Museum Courtyard | Austin Family Photographer

If you’d also like to have a Family or Senior photo session in the Blanton Museum Courtyard, here are my Top 5 Tips below:
- PARKING:Â I always recommend paying for parking at the Brazos Garage on MLK and then walking over.
- LOCATIONS: There are so many interesting and colorful backgrounds in this one small area. I love that you can see the Texas Capitol peeking from behind when you are seated under the Petals sculptures. Don’t forget about the alphabet mural on the backside of the Museum as well. ***If you want to take any photos inside the Museum itself, The Blanton is not available for professional photoshoots inside the museum at this time. They also have some lovely landscaping to get some close-up greenery shots.Â
- WARDROBE: You’ll be surrounded by some bright, vivid colors, so keep that in mind when planning your outfits.
- SCHEDULE: Double check the Blanton’s Events page and the University of Texas Football schedule to make sure you won’t have conflicts. Also the Museum is closed on Mondays if you want the Courtyard when it’s least crowded. Or aim for UT Student holiday breaks.
- EAT & STAY FOR THE ART: End your photo session with a visit inside the Museum to appreciate the art. Also, their French Cafe will be open starting in 2026. But other great restaurants nearby to make a night of it (that the Museum recommends) include:
- Scholz Garten
- Gabriel’s Café at AT&T Hotel — show day-of museum ticket or wristband for 10% off starters
- Goodall’s at Hotel Ella
- Otopia Rooftop at The Otis Hotel
- Texas Chili Parlor
- Clay Pit
- Veracruz All Natural (located in Travis County Civil and Family Courts Facility)
- Arturo’s Underground Café
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Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Family 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 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.
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