Zilker Botanical Garden Family Photos | Austin Family Photographer Chizu Takakura Photography

In mid-October, I had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful family session at Zilker Botanical Garden here in Austin — a place I’d always hoped to shoot at since moving to Texas. The garden was even more inspiring than I imagined, with so many unique areas that highlight Austin’s natural charm. It quickly became one of my favorite spots for creating Zilker Botanical Garden family photos.

What makes Zilker so special is the variety of its landscapes.From the serene Japanese Garden, the colorful and seasonally changing Herb Garden, and the iconic stone Memorial Arch, to the peaceful waterfall and reflective pond, and even a viewpoint where you can see a glimpse of the Austin skyline — each area offers its own beauty and atmosphere. These diverse settings make it easy to create natural and timeless family portraits while enjoying a slow walk through the gardens.

There is a $50 photography fee, which covers admission for the photographer and one additional guest. Other family members simply pay the standard entrance fee at the gate. Even with this small cost, I highly recommend Zilker if you're looking for something refreshing and a bit different from the usual Austin photo locations. It’s especially wonderful for families who love greenery, calm spaces, and a walkable garden setting.

One thing I personally love about photographing here is the quality of the light throughout the park’s open hours. The soft brightness filters beautifully through the trees and garden structures, creating gentle, glowing tones that complement family portraits so well. Each garden area catches the light differently, giving a lovely variety of moods even within a single session.

Zilker Botanical Garden feels like one of Austin’s hidden gems — a peaceful escape within the city, filled with character, history, and beautiful scenery. For families looking to enjoy nature while capturing warm and genuine moments, it is truly an ideal location for Zilker Botanical Garden family photos.

If you're searching for the perfect place for your next Austin family session, Zilker offers a refreshing balance of nature, beautiful landscapes, and space to simply enjoy being together. I would be honored to help you create meaningful, joyful images here.