Marcy's bridal portraits at the McNay Art Museum came together just the way we hoped: warm evening light, a lace gown with a cathedral-length veil, and a bride who laughed her way through the whole session. In a little over an hour we moved through the McNay's arcades, fountain courtyard, lawns and gardens, and finished at a carved stone doorway as the last light faded.
The McNay is one of our favorite places in San Antonio for bridal portraits, and Marcy's session shows why. Below are our favorite images, the spots we used, and what to know if you're planning your own bridal portraits at the McNay.
Why the McNay Is Perfect for Bridal Portraits
The museum started as the home of artist and collector Marion Koogler McNay, a 24-room Spanish Colonial Revival house designed by San Antonio architects Atlee and Robert Ayres. When it opened to the public in 1954, it became the first modern art museum in Texas.
For a bride, that history means arches, decorative tile, carved stone and white stucco that look beautiful next to a lace gown. The grounds cover about 25 acres, so you get several completely different looks in one session without getting back in the car. We've photographed weddings here too, like Isaiah and Amaya's wedding at the McNay, and you can see more of our work on our McNay Art Museum page.
Arches and Tile in the Late-Afternoon Shade
We started on the terrace and in the covered arcades, where open shade keeps skin soft while the gardens glow behind. The long tiled walkway is one of our favorite spots on the grounds: the arches frame the bride, and a cathedral veil has room to spread across the floor.
The Fountain Courtyard at Golden Hour
As the sun dropped, we moved to the fountain courtyard. Backlight through the oak trees and the spray of the fountain gave us the bright, airy look we love, and Marcy's veil did the rest. We let it trail behind her, then brought it forward over her face for a few quiet frames, like the one near the top of this post.
In Front of the McNay Mansion
No McNay session is complete without the mansion itself. From the lawn, the white Spanish Colonial facade and the full length of Marcy's train fit in one frame. We slowed down here for the details too: her ivory and peach bouquet and the lace of her gown.
Golden Light in the Gardens
The sun set behind the oaks in the gardens and turned everything gold. This is where we slowed down the most: a few walking shots, Marcy seated with her gown spread across the grass, and close portraits with the light catching the lace edge of her veil.
Carved Doorways and the Last Light
We finished at one of the McNay's ornate carved stone doorways, then made a final loop past the white archways and palms. Marcy's laugh in the last photo below is one of our favorite moments from the whole evening.
From the McNay to Willow Ridge
Marcy and G were married at Willow Ridge at Camp Fimfo in New Braunfels, and we were honored to photograph their wedding day too. You can see their whole day in Marcy and G's Willow Ridge wedding story. Planning a celebration out that way? Here's our Willow Ridge at Camp Fimfo venue guide and our guide to the top wedding venues in New Braunfels.
Planning Bridal Portraits at the McNay: FAQ
Do you need a permit for bridal portraits at the McNay?
Yes. The McNay charges a fee for posed portrait sessions, including bridal portraits. As of October 2026, an outdoor session on the grounds is $50 for up to nine people. You can buy a pass online up to 48 hours ahead or pay the security officer when you arrive (cash or check). Fees and hours change, so check the McNay's photography page before you book.
Can you take bridal portraits inside the museum?
Only with an indoor reservation. Indoor sessions in the Semmes Lobby and on the Blackburn Patio are a $200 flat fee, include an hour indoors plus the grounds, and must be requested at least 14 days ahead. The galleries themselves aren't available for portraits.
When is the best time of day?
The last hour or so before sunset, like Marcy's session. Plan around the grounds' hours: they stay open into the evening on weekdays but close at 5 PM on Saturdays and Sundays, so a weekend golden-hour session isn't possible. In summer, when sunset comes after 8 PM, Thursday is your best bet because the grounds stay open until 9 PM.
What should you know before your session?
There are no changing rooms, so arrive dressed. Drones aren't allowed, and you can't stand in the fountains or climb on sculptures. Museum events take priority, so leave a little flexibility in your plan.
How long should you plan for?
Marcy's session ran a little over an hour, which gave us time for six different spots without rushing. We recommend planning 60 to 90 minutes.
Planning Your Bridal Portraits?
If you're getting married in San Antonio or the Hill Country, we'd love to help you plan bridal portraits at the McNay or anywhere else. Start with our guide to bridal portraits in San Antonio, browse our portrait work and investment, or reach out to check your date.
