Senior Photo Location Guide: Auditorium Shores in Austin
If you want a mix of city skyline, green space, and water views all in one spot, Auditorium Shores is a gem. It’s a large, outdoor area right on Lady Bird Lake that gives you both nature and downtown Austin energy perfect for seniors who want variety in their gallery without having to drive around to multiple different locations.
Why Seniors Love Auditorium Shores
This spot is a favorite for seniors who want:
- Downtown Austin energy
- City-meets-nature vibes: think grassy fields with the skyline right behind you.
- So many different backdrops in a short walking distance
It’s probably not the right fit if you’re dreaming of being completely surrounded by tall grass fields or deep woods… this is more “city nature” than “pure nature“, but I do have a bonus location idea that will work!
From a Photographer’s Perspective
Auditorium Shores is like a photographer’s playground. So much variety in one place. The only “challenge” is deciding what not to shoot because there are so many good spots. If you’re coming here for the first time, take a few minutes to wander before starting; you might stumble on something new each time.
A few things to keep in mind:
- There’s a dog park nearby, so we may see some furry visitors and it’s also a great location to bring your dog! Read my tips and guide for bringing your pup here.
- Free residential parking is available, but I highly recommend
- Since this is a large area, I always suggest bringing easy to walk in shoes.
Location Highlights
Location: 900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
Vibe: Skyline, nature, modern, downtown
Setting: Outdoor Natural Space Downtown Austin
Parking: Free & Paid Parking Options
Cost: Free (not including parking)
Bathrooms / Changing area: Park bathrooms available, but I provide a pop-up tent for outfit changes!
Best Photo Spots at Auditorium Shores
There’s so much variety here that you could fill an entire session without ever leaving the area. My go-to spots include:
1. The Long Center
The Long Center’s open plaza and modern architecture make it perfect for crisp, clean portraits with the skyline right behind you.
2. Long Center Parking Garage Rooftop
This rooftop photoshoot location has one of the best skyline views in Austin. If you want to include your car or motorcycle this is THE place to do it!
3. Butler Metro Park Field + Pond
Just next to the Long Center, this park has a green open field and a pond that’s a perfect spot to mix in some nature to balance out the city shots from earlier in the session. Fall colors here are gorgeous!
4. Doug Sahm Hill Summit
Connected to Butler Park, there’s a grassy hill where you get a panoramic view of the city with wide-open sky above you.
5. Vic Mathias Shore Field
This grassy field with the skyline gives closer access to Town Lake and the rustic fence lining the popular Ann & Roy Butler Hike & Bike Trail along the side.
6. The Palmer Events Center
The Palmer Events Center is one of my go-to spots when we’re at Auditorium Shores. The building itself is made of stone with a pond in front. At night, the building lights up, which makes for some really dramatic portraits. Off to the side, there’s a row of big rocks under trees that’s perfect for more relaxed shots.
7. South First Street Pedestrian Bridge
This pedestrian bridge stretches across Town Lake, attached to South First Street, with beautiful views of the Colorado River. I also recommend utilizing the area under the bridge before walking on the bridge.
8. Shoal Beach at Town Lake Metropolitan Park
Bonus location idea: If you stay on the bridge and walk across Town Lake, right across the bridge is Shoal Beach. This spot has a bit more of a nature vibe and less buildings, but it is quite a walk across and can eat up some time.
Planning Your Senior Session Here – What to know
There’s no website or official contact… this is just a public space I’ve scouted and used often. But here’s what you’ll need to know:
- Location: 900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
- Parking: The easiest option is the Long Center parking lot or the Palmer Events Center (both are about $10, unless there’s an event). Free public parking exists, but it can be tricky to find an open spot.
- Footwear: We’ll be walking quite a bit between spots. Bring comfortable shoes to slip on between photo locations.
- Crowds: It’s a popular park, especially on weekends. Weekday afternoons are usually calmer.
- Outfit Changes: I bring a pop-up tent for quick changes if needed.
- Rain: There are some covered areas in the area if some freak rain shower happens.
Best time to shoot here
Golden hour (1–2 hours before sunset) is the best here… Sometimes the sunlight reflects off downtown buildings and adds free additional lighting that can make it a fun and unique photoshoot experience.
Ready to book your senior photoshoot at Auditorium Shores?
Featured Senior Photo Sessions at Auditorium Shores in Austin
Want to see what a real senior photography session looks like at Auditorium Shores? Check out the sessions below to see more!
