Beautiful Family Photos at the McNay Museum

Family Portrait at McNay Art Museum

The McNay Art Museum is one of my favorite places for family photos in San Antonio. Between the peaceful walking paths, beautiful bridge, lush landscaping, and elegant water features, there’s no shortage of gorgeous backdrops. But as beautiful as a location can be, I believe what families remember most is how they felt during their session. Family photos can be done well anywhere, even in your own home! But these family photos at McNay Museum were perfect for this wonderful family.

When I met Shelby and her family, we had everything that can make parents nervous before family photos: Texas heat, children with different personalities and attention spans, and a schedule that required us to make the most of our time together.

And honestly… that’s just real life.

Children don’t always smile on cue. Babies tire and cry. Toddlers have their own agenda. Instead of fighting those moments, I work with them

Shelby shared afterward,

“I loved your ability to not only make the best of the situation—location, heat, my kids of all ages and their up-and-down moods. You so easily made this shoot happen on the fly, and it was impressive. You understood how you can never predict kids’ behavior, but you worked with it and made it fun.”

That is exactly the experience I hope every family leaves with.

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This Family’s Photos at McNay Museum Highlight San Antonio’s History and Beauty

Every Mom Deserves to Be in the Memories

One thing I hear from moms all the time is that they’re usually the one behind the camera.

They’re the ones documenting birthdays, vacations, bedtime snuggles, and everyday moments—but when they look back, they’re missing from so many of the memories.

One of my biggest goals during every family session is making sure Mom is in the story.

Not just smiling at the camera, but laughing with her children, holding little hands, sneaking a quiet moment with her husband, or simply soaking in this season of life.

Shelby described it perfectly:

“I felt seen. As a mother, it’s rare we’re ever in the photos. You made sure to capture moments that, as a mom in particular, I’d cherish. You also made sure to capture moments with just my kids, just my husband and me… there were so many amazing shots in such a short amount of time.”

Those are the images that become family favorites years from now.

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The Best Photos Are Candid, Not Posed

Some of my favorite moments happen between the poses.

A toddler suddenly reaching for Mom’s hand.

A ten-year-old making his little sister laugh.

A baby looking up at Dad.

Those moments can’t be scripted, but they can be noticed.

During this session, we moved naturally through the McNay grounds, letting the kids explore while I gently guided everyone into moments that felt authentic instead of overly posed.

Shelby said,

“My favorite part was just being in the moment and feeling completely confident in your talent to capture it. You had fun ideas, you knew tricks in posing that worked best, and you were so patient and personable. It felt like we’d been friends forever.”

That might be one of the sweetest compliments I could receive.

Because if you feel comfortable with me, your children usually will too—and that’s when the genuine smiles happen.

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The Photos You Don’t Realize You’ll Need

Family photos aren’t just for today.

They’re for the years from now when your children have grown taller than you, when the toddler curls disappear, when tiny hands become teenage hands, and this season has quietly become a memory.

That’s why I care so much about creating photographs that feel timeless.

When Shelby received her gallery, her response reminded me why I love what I do.

“I cried. Literal tears. I was so happy and overwhelmed. The photos came out incredible. I loved every single one of them—not just a few… every single one.”

She also shared something that truly meant a lot to me:

“I immediately felt like my family and I were in good hands. I was so grateful for your willingness to correct any insecurity I had in a photo. That was such a kind gesture. I cannot wait to work with you again.”

That trust is something I never take for granted.

Whether we’re meeting at the McNay Art Museum, a favorite San Antonio park, or somewhere meaningful to your family, my hope is always the same—to create a session that feels relaxed, enjoyable, and true to you.

Because years from now, I don’t want you to simply remember taking family photos.

I want you to remember how it felt to be together.

Want Your Updated Family Photos?

Summer isn’t over just yet! With kids in school again, you are about to be a lot busier! Interested in how I can give you those long-awaited family photos? Send me a message in the chat box below about your dream session. There is a lot to San Antonio outside of McNay Art Museum that you can explore! Or click here to book your special day!