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Why On-Site Makeup Is Essential for Professional Team Headshots

Why On-Site Makeup Is Essential for Professional Team Headshots

When planning team headshots for your company, one of the most overlooked—but most impactful—decisions is having a professional makeup artist on-site. Whether your team is photographing executives, medical professionals, creatives, or corporate staff, on-site makeup elevates the final images in ways that lighting and posing alone cannot.

At Blue Sky’s Studio, on-site makeup and grooming is a key part of creating polished, confident, and approachable team headshots—especially for companies in Orange County, New York, San Francisco, and Austin, where professional imagery plays a critical role in first impressions.

 

Confident corporate team headshot created with professional lighting and on-site makeup for a cohesive, polished brand image

Why On-Site Makeup Makes a Difference for Team Headshots

Professional cameras and HD lighting capture every detail. While this level of clarity is powerful, it can also highlight shine, uneven skin tone, dryness, or minor distractions that aren’t visible in everyday life.

Having a makeup artist on-site ensures that each team member looks camera-ready, consistent, and confident—without appearing overdone or unnatural.

More importantly, it helps your team feel taken care of, which directly impacts how relaxed and confident they appear on camera.

Makeup for Men: Clean, Natural, and Professional

Makeup for men is subtle, undetectable, and focused on refinement—not transformation. Our goal is to help men look refreshed, polished, and confident while still looking like themselves.

For men, our on-site grooming and makeup typically includes:

  • Skin hydration to prevent dryness under studio lighting
  • Shine control for the forehead, nose, and cheeks
  • Light correction for redness or uneven skin tone
  • Blemish reduction when needed
  • Lip hydration to prevent cracking or dryness
  • Beard grooming and cleanup
  • Hair refinement and flyaway control

These small adjustments make a noticeable difference on camera, especially in corporate headshots, medical headshots, and executive portraits.

 

rofessional team headshot featuring a man and woman photographed with on-site makeup and grooming for a polished, cohesive corporate look”

Makeup for Women: Polished, Balanced, and Camera-Ready

For women, the focus is on enhancing natural features while ensuring makeup translates beautifully under professional lighting.

At Blue Sky’s Studio, women arrive with their base makeup and hair already done, and our makeup artist refines and amplifies the look for camera.

This typically includes:

  • Adding color back into the skin for a healthy, balanced tone
  • Refining eye makeup for clarity and definition on camera
  • Re-curling or smoothing hair as needed
  • Lip treatments and color adjustments
  • Lash support or refinement when needed
  • Shine control and skin balancing for HD cameras

The result is makeup that photographs clean, professional, and timeless—perfect for branding photography, corporate team headshots, and leadership portraits.

Styling Support: It’s About the Small Details

On-site makeup is about more than skin and hair. Styling support plays a major role in creating cohesive, polished team imagery.

Our team also assists with:

  • Clothing adjustments for proper fit and balance
  • Removing lint, dust, or pet hair
  • Straightening collars, jackets, and lapels
  • Checking buttons, ties, and necklines

These details are often overlooked during fast-paced team sessions, yet they make a significant difference in the final image.

 

Professional team headshot with natural on-site grooming and shine control for a clean, confident corporate portrait

Confidence Shows on Camera

When people feel good, it shows. Having a professional makeup artist on-site helps team members relax, trust the process, and step in front of the camera with confidence.

That confidence translates into images that feel:

  • Approachable
  • Professional
  • Polished
  • Authentic
  • Powerful

The result isn’t just a strong headshot—it’s an image that communicates credibility and personality at the same time.

Why Companies Choose Blue Sky’s Studio for Team Headshots

At Blue Sky’s Studio, we specialize in team headshots and branding photography for companies in Orange County, New York, San Francisco, and Austin. Our process is designed to be efficient, organized, and supportive—especially for large teams.

By combining professional photography with on-site makeup, grooming, and styling support, we ensure that every team member looks their best and that the final images feel cohesive across your brand.

 

Corporate male member photographed after on-site makeup, showing polished skin tone and professional grooming for a business headshot

Creating Strong Headshots Through Thoughtful Preparation

The most powerful headshots aren’t created by chance. They’re the result of thoughtful preparation, professional support, and attention to detail.

On-site makeup simplifies the process, removes stress for your team, and ensures that the final images are strong, polished, and aligned with your brand.

When people look good, they feel confident—and when confidence shows, your headshots instantly connect with your ideal client.

If you’re planning team headshots or searching for a team headshot style guide in Orange County, New York, San Francisco, or Austin, Blue Sky’s Studio offers a seamless, professional experience from start to finish.

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Creativity Shaped By Women At Blue Sky’s Studio

Creativity Through a Female Lens: A Women-Led Photography Studio Across the U.S.

At Blue Sky’s Studio, creativity is shaped by women. From the photographers behind the camera to the leadership guiding the studio’s vision, the work is rooted in a proudly female-led photography studio serving Laguna Beach, Orange County, New York, Austin, and San Francisco.

This shared perspective naturally creates a collaborative and thoughtful environment. It’s one that carries through every photography project. Blue Sky’s Studio is often chosen not only for refined imagery, but also for an experience that feels intentional, comfortable, and authentic.

Women Photographers Behind the Lens

At Blue Sky’s Studio, every photographer is a woman. Each session is guided by empathy, attention to detail, and creative intuition. This approach remains consistent whether corporate headshots are captured in Orange County, personal branding sessions take place in New York, or creative portraits are created in Austin and San Francisco.

Being photographed can feel intimidating, especially for professionals updating their image or business owners building a brand. Because of this, a relaxed and supportive environment is intentionally created. Clients are guided in a way that helps them feel confident and natural in front of the camera.

This people-first approach often leads to:

  • Natural expressions and genuine emotion
  • Polished, professional imagery
  • Photographs that accurately reflect the individual or brand

As a result, clients often value the care, guidance, and intention present throughout each session.

Women photographers behind the camera at Blue Sky’s Studio, a women-led photography studio focused on thoughtful, professional imagery

Female photographers working behind the camera at Blue Sky’s Studio, creating professional headshots and branding photography

 

Female Leadership Driving Creative Vision

Blue Sky’s Studio is guided by experienced female leadership that remains closely involved in both creative and operational decisions. This hands-on structure helps maintain consistency, clear communication, and high-quality results across all locations served, including Laguna Beach, Orange County, New York, Austin, and San Francisco.

Within this leadership approach, emphasis is placed on:

  • Collaboration and clear workflows
  • Organization and thoughtful planning
  • Cohesive creative direction

Together, these values support a seamless photography experience from the first inquiry through the delivery of final edited images.

 

Women-led photography team behind the camera at Blue Sky’s Studio, capturing authentic and professional portraits

A Collaborative, Women-Led Studio Culture

As a women-led photography studio, Blue Sky’s Studio fosters a supportive and inclusive creative culture. Photographers and the production team work closely together, sharing ideas openly and approaching each project with care and precision.

This collaborative mindset allows the studio to:

  • Maintain a consistent visual style across sessions
  • Adapt easily to client goals and branding needs
  • Deliver a smooth, professional experience regardless of location

Whether photographing a corporate team in San Francisco, a branding client in Austin, or headshots in Orange County, the process remains thoughtful and client-focused.

 

Women-led photography team behind the camera at Blue Sky’s Studio, capturing authentic and professional portraits

An Inclusive and Professional Client Experience

Clients often mention the welcoming atmosphere at Blue Sky’s Studio. Care is taken to create a space where people feel respected, comfortable, and confident. This environment plays an essential role in producing high-quality photography.

This approach is especially effective for:

  • Corporate headshots and executive portraits
  • Personal branding photography
  • Creative and editorial portraits
  • Team, workplace, and lifestyle photography

By prioritizing communication and comfort, images are created that feel natural, professional, and aligned with each client’s goals.

Supporting Women-Owned Creative Businesses

Blue Sky’s Studio is proudly operated as a women-owned and women-led photography studio. Supporting the studio also supports female leadership and diverse voices within the creative industry.

Women-led businesses often bring a distinct strength to creative work. This strength is rooted in collaboration, emotional awareness, and attention to detail. Women-led photography team behind the camera at Blue Sky’s Studio, capturing authentic and professional portraits

 

Women-led photography team behind the camera at Blue Sky’s Studio, capturing authentic and professional portraits

 

A Women-Led Photography Studio Built on Trust and Creativity

Blue Sky’s Studio is built on collaboration, creativity, and female leadership. With women guiding every aspect of the studio—from photography to management—a professional, inclusive, and thoughtfully run creative space has been established for clients in Laguna Beach, Orange County, New York, Austin, and San Francisco.

For those seeking a women-led photography studio, professional headshot photographer, or personal branding photographer who values authenticity, comfort, and creative excellence, Blue Sky’s Studio offers an experience shaped by intention and care.

Photography is more than an image. It’s an experience shaped by the people behind the camera. At Blue Sky’s Studio, every project is approached with purpose, professionalism, and a shared creative perspective.

Book Now: https://www.blueskysstudio.com

 

Women-led photography team behind the camera at Blue Sky’s Studio, capturing authentic and professional portraits

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Look Sharp in 2025

Look Sharp in 2025: The Best Style Guide for Men’s Headshots

Your headshot should work as hard as you do—and our men’s headshot style guide is here to help you show up with confidence. Whether you’re updating your professional profile, preparing for a new role, or simply want to look your best, your headshot is often the first impression you make. At Blue Sky’s Studio, we specialize in high-quality headshots for men in Manhattan who want to look sharp, professional, and camera-ready. In this headshot style guide, we’re sharing simple, effective wardrobe tips to help you put your best face forward.

Stylish outdoor headshot of young man in black blazer and crewneck shirt. client wearing classic suit from men’s headshot style guide

Top Tips from Our Mens Headshot Style Guide

How to dress for a men’s headshot? At Blue Sky’s Studio, we consistently see that timeless, classic styles always make the best impression. Think solid, dark-toned colors like navy blue, charcoal grey, and deep burgundy—these hues communicate confidence and authority while ensuring the focus stays on you, not your outfit.

In our men’s headshot style guide, we recommend a tailored blazer or suit jacket over a crisp dress shirt is an excellent choice for any professional setting. Whether you’re going for a modern C-suite look or aiming to refresh your LinkedIn presence, simple, fitted clothing provides a sharp, upscale feel that works beautifully against both light and dark studio backgrounds.

Minimalist business portrait of young Asian professional in black suit by window. client wearing classic suit from men’s headshot style guide

Pro Tip: Skip loud patterns or flashy branding—they can be distracting and may not photograph well.

Show Your Personality Through Subtle Accessories

Our men’s headshot style guide, suggest accessories to bring a bit of your personality to a professional image. Consider:

  • A classic watch

  • A tasteful tie with a subtle pattern

  • A pocket square that adds a pop of color

Corporate headshot of man in dark navy suit and white shirt in bright office space. client wearing classic suit from men’s headshot style guide

These touches enhance your image without stealing the spotlight. Just remember—less is more. Avoid oversized or flashy pieces that can overpower the photo.

Grooming Is Non-Negotiable

Your appearance should reflect attention to detail. Schedule a haircut 2–4 days before your session, giving your style time to settle naturally. A freshly shaved or well-groomed beard is essential.

Confident young man in blue suit with open collar shirt in lush indoor setting. client wearing classic suit from men’s headshot style guide

Also, don’t forget the finishing touches:

  • Trimmed eyebrows

  • Moisturized skin

  • Clean, well-maintained nails (they sometimes sneak into frame!)

A polished look communicates professionalism before you say a word.

Tailored Clothing Makes the Difference

One of the most overlooked aspects of headshot preparation? Fit. Ill-fitting clothing can distort your shape, making even the most expensive wardrobe look sloppy. Invest in tailoring if needed—especially in the shoulders and collar area, which are prominent in close-up shots.

Business professional in navy plaid suit and polka-dot tie smiling in modern office. client wearing classic suit from men’s headshot style guide

Remember: A proper fit doesn’t just look good; it makes you feel more confident—and that shows on camera.

Match Your Outfit to the Studio Background

Our Manhattan photography studio offers a range of backdrop options, from clean whites to dramatic charcoal greys. We recommend discussing the background with us ahead of time to ensure your wardrobe enhances (rather than competes with) the setting.

Darker suits contrast well with lighter backgrounds, while mid-tone clothing works perfectly with deeper backdrops. Skin tone also plays a role, and we’re happy to help you choose the best combination for a polished result.

client wearing classic suit from men’s headshot style guide

Practice Makes Powerful Posing

A strong headshot is about more than clothes—it’s about presence. Practice smiling naturally and experimenting with subtle expressions in front of a mirror. Know your best angles and bring that self-awareness into your session.

We’ll guide you during the shoot, but coming in prepared helps you relax, and that comfort translates into confident, authentic images.

client wearing classic suit from men’s headshot style guide

Final Thoughts from Your Men’s Headshot Style Guide & Photographer in Manhattan

At Blue Sky’s Studio, we understand how much your headshot matters. It’s often the first thing people see on your website, LinkedIn, or professional materials. That’s why we go beyond the lens—helping you craft a look that’s both stylish and strategic.

By choosing classic attire, minding the fit, grooming thoughtfully, and expressing personality with restraint, you’re setting the stage for a standout image that speaks volumes about your personal brand. Using this men’s headshot style guide as your checklist will help you walk into your session prepared and confident.

Ready to update your professional image?
Book your Manhattan headshot session with Blue Sky’s Studio and let your executive presence shine—one click at a time.

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My recent trip to the Hospital

Some of you may have heard, I recently spent some time in the hospital.  While I was at my sickest, my brother asked me, “aren’t you totally stressed out about your photography business?”  My answer actually surprised even me. I said no.  

Why?

  1.  I felt so sick, my priority was recovering my health.  If I had to have forced downtime, I was going to focus on getting better (after spending time in Mexico, I got Sepsis from an bad intestinal infection.  By the time I actually went to the hospital, I was extremely sick).
  2. I have surrounded myself with an amazing team.   Brittany, my studio manager, and Lily, my second photographer and editor, stepped up and took over my sessions.  I am eternally grateful to both of these wonderful women!

orange county portrait photographer

3.  Being sick puts everything into perspective.  You know, don’t sweat the small stuff! Everyone was so understanding and supportive about their orders and having Lily be their photographer that I just felt well taken care of.

I am grateful to report I am feeling much better and so excited to get back behind the camera.  To celebrate my “come back” I am bringing back “Model for a Day” Sessions.  These sessions are perfect for Professional headshots/ business headshots sessions or for high school senior pics.

Headshot/ senior session promotion includes:

professional headshot promotion

Session fee: $249 (regular price $548)

  • Professional Makeup and Hair styling
  • 3-4 looks during the session (outfit or locations changes)
  • Matted fine art print ($249 value)
  • 1-2 hour session
  • Personalized reveal session 7-10 days after your photo shoot
  • Great for professional headshots or senior portraits

We only have 10 of these sessions available.  The sessions need to be booked by March 31 and shot by April 30.  To book your session now or to get more information click the link button.book it button

I wish all of you good health and happiness!

Highlights from my three weeks in Austin Texas:

The Best of Austin Texas

November and December passed by in a blur of family portrait sessions and senior portrait sessions that kept me busy most days, especially during the golden hour. While I absolutely love photographing family portraits and high school senior sessions, especially during the gorgeous light of late Fall and early winter, I always need a break after the holidays to rest and recharge.

This year, Bob and I decided to take the very long drive to Austin, Texas and live in the city for a month. We brought our bikes and I included my camera gear (even though I swear I actually did take a break) and we immersed ourselves in Austin City life.

Highlights of our Austin Vacation include:

GREAT RESTAURANTS IN AUSTIN

Ramen Tatsuya: We rented an amazing Condo in downtown Austin for our stay and the host is originally from Japan. Some of you may know that I lived in Japan for a year and I adore Japanese food. So when she recommended that Ramen Tatsuya and said it rivaled the best Ramen in Japan I was excited. This restaurant did not disappoint! But, be prepared to wait in a line. Don’t worry, it goes quickly and it is worth it!

24 Diner– Chef inspired comfort food with a focus on locally grown. This restaurant offers American cuisine, good service and a fun atmosphere. My favorite is their veggie hash and the Roasted Banana and Brown Sugar milkshake.

Perla’s- We stopped off at Perla’s after the Continental Club for appetizers and cocktails. Perla’s specializes in seafood that is super fresh and the food is amazing. It is a great spot to sit outside, but it was way too cold for us, so we grab at spot at the bar, where you can order anything on the menu (the place was packed on a Monday, so if you don’t have reservations, the bar is a great alternative).

Lamberts- You know it is going to be good when you can smell the mouth watering bbq a block away. This is one of the first restaurants we fell in love with in downtown Austin. Try their spicy deviled eggs and Niman Ranch Pork chop!

The Blue Dalia Bistro- We discovered this indoor/ outdoor bistro in the trendy East Austin neighborhood several years ago after a very long, very hot walk through the city. The back porch is a cool, shady escape during the warm months in Austin. Blue Dalia’s home baked bread with lots of artisan cheeses and local sourced, organic ingredients mean their salads and open faced sandwiches are all mouth watering good. Bob’s favorite is the Tuna Salad and I love the hummus with avocado.

Elizabeth Street: Elizabeth Street Café is a neighborhood Vietnamese cafe and French bakery in South Austin. The little restaurant boasts sunny dining rooms and a shady garden patio and serves fresh breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as takeout. On the cold winters days in Austin there is nothing better than a warm bowl of Pho!

Peche– Peche is Austin’s first absinthe bar and they specialize in “pre-prohibition” style cocktails. This is a great place to have a few drinks, take in the atmosphere and indulge in some of their sinfully good appetizers. The bar staff is super friendly and love to share the history of the cocktail menu.

Le Politique: A recent addition to downtown Austin this premium French restaurant is not only beautiful, but the food in amazing. Try the roasted chicken or trout almondine. I don’t even like trout and I thought it was delicious!

Home Slice Pizza: When you want something hot, fast and delicious, Home Slice Pizza is a must stop. This South Congress gem is always crowded, but the line moves fast and the pizza is worth the wait. Traditional New York Style pizza by the pie or by the slice.

Torchy’s Tacos Downtown:  Austin is know for their tacos, and Torchy’s is a landmark.  The new downtown location is a little more upscale than the others and it even has a complete bar. This is a great spot for a quick bite at a great price.

Flower Child: If you have been to their San Diego location, you are familiar with Flower Childs. Flower Childs offers a clean, delicious menu complete with lots of vegan, or vegetarian options. I opted for the Vegetarian Poke bowl with a side of Brussel sprouts.

Salt Lick BBQ– Always have to make a stop on every trip. While this is about 30 minutes out of town, it wouldn’t be a trip to Austin without a stop. Try going on a Friday or Saturday night to enjoy live music and a fun crowd. Be sure to bring cash because that is all they accept.

Loro: By chance we found out about Loro Restaurant and learned that the Pit Master at Franklin’s bbq (we still haven’t dedicated a whole morning to waiting in line for Franklin’s), opened a new restaurant with Tyson Cole of Uchi described as an Asian smokehouse. The food was amazing. Try the Oak grilled Snap peas and the oak smoked salmon. So good!

North Italian Food: Another new addition to downtown Austin, this restaurant has an amazing indoor/ outdoor bar and a great vibe. We chose to eat at the bar and people watch along 2nd street. The staff is incredibly friendly and it has a great menu and really wonderful happy hour.

Snooze AM Eater– Great spot for breakfast. I love the food and the entire vibe of the restaurant. Get there early, because it is a really popular destination, especially on the weekend.

Magnolia Cafe: An Austin Classic. We love the South Congress location. Our very first trek to Magnolia Cafe was over 10 years ago. Our funniest (or worst parent moment) memory is having our kids walk there on a very hot day over 3 miles. Good thing the food was worth the trip. Another popular spot so be prepared to wait.

Huts Hamburgers: It’s “still delicious after all these years” say fans of this circa-1939 Downtown “Austin treasure”, popular for its “old-fashioned hamburgers”, “out-of-this-world onion rings” and “real malt”milkshakes served in a “relaxed” setting done up in neon signs, team pennants and vintage photos; “two-for-one” Wednesdays are a fan “favorite”, but less so the parking, which can be a “problem.” Make sure to read the articles on the walls while you wait. This spot has a fun and colorful history.

ATX Cucina: Modern Mexican Food that is served family style. We ordered the homemade tortillas with salsa sampler, bbq shrimp and mexican style corn. Not only was it extremely tasty, it was reasonably priced for the quality of food. They also have an excellent tequila menu and mezcal. And for my foodie friends, this restaurant is 100% gluten free.

Odd Duck: A farm to table restaurant with an ever changing menu. Their approach to cooking is creative and absolutely delicious. This is a family style restaurant meant for sharing with friends. They also have a huge cocktail menu. Bob has the redfish tacos which were the best fish tacos I ever tasted (and I eat a lot of fish tacos).

Bob’s Steak and Chop House: When in Texas you have to indulge at least once in a really great steak. Bob’s delivers and I love the home made pickles that start the meal.

Trulucks Steak and Seafood House: Excellent seafood with exceptional service in the heart of Austin. We loved the large cold seafood appetizer that we shared with the whole table.

The chilled seafood platter for four at Trulucks

Moonshine Patio Bar and Grill: Comfort Food and cocktails right near the Rainy District. This is Southern Inspired farm to table at its finest. Try the Blackened Catfish or the Shrimp and Grits, both are so good.

Wu Chow: My very first experience with soup dumplings was at Wu Chows and now I am hooked. Wu Chow brings authentic, farm-fresh, modern Chinese food to the heart of downtown Austin, offering dishes representative of all eight styles of Chinese cuisine, as well as dim sum service on Sundays. Through their local farm and ranch partnerships, Wu Chow is able to provide guests with fresh, regionally-influenced dishes. Some favorites include Shanghai Soup Dumplings, Salt & Pepper Squid, Yu Xiang Eggplant and Mapo Tofu all have a place on the menu, in addition to seasonal specials such as Beijing Roast Duck.

Hillside Farmacy: Hillside Farmacy resides in a building owned by one of the oldest standing African American East Austin residents. The Drugstore closed in the 70s and the deteriorating building was lovely restored by the Hillside Pharmacy team to its original glory. The farm to table menu is great and I highly recommend the french fries, chicken sandwich, peel and eat shrimp and Kale caesar salad.

THE BEST COCKTAILS AND ENTERTAINMENT SPOTS IN AUSTIN

The Roosevelt Room: Historical craft cocktails in a cool downtown environment (and we sat next to a super cute couple that just got engaged, so I had to offer to photograph them… more on that later). Also note that they take reservations.

Midnight Cowboy– A little hidden speakeasy gem on 6th street. Tough to find and you have to have a reservation, but worth the trip.

The Continental Club– An old burlesque club, turned great music spot, this venue has amazing live acts in a historic atmosphere.

The Townsend: A couple things to note about this venue, the first is even though it is a bar, you can make reservations since they play live music. We were disappointed the first go around because we couldn’t get in. The second thing is to try to make your reservation a week in advance. You will not be disappointed.

Austin City Limits: The best venue, of course, for live music, but they also offer lots of other types of entertainment. We saw Brian Regan’s comedy show which kept us laughing.

Zach Töpfer Theater: If you happen to be coming during the holidays, you absolutely can not miss their rendition of a Christmas Carol. It is all set to modern day music and it is one of the best live performances I have seen anywhere. They also host lots of theater, dance and musical performances. Check out their schedule when you are in town.

Bass Theater: Each year, Texas Performing Arts offers a diverse season of music, theater, dance, and conversation, and during the past 35 years has presented such world-class artists as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Victor Borge, Nina Simone, Ornette Coleman, Merce Cunningham Dance Company, Van Morrison, Philip Glass, Ella Fitzgerald, and The English National Opera. We saw Dorrance Dance (an electric tap music ETM production) and both of us absolutely loved it.


Parker Jazz Club: We are not super late night people, so on our first stop to The Elephant Room, we actually missed the act and the next one wasn’t starting until 11 pm. Someone in the Club recommended we try Parker Jazz Club. We made reservations for a table the next night and the show was great!


The Elephant Room: This underground Jazz club feels like a speakeasy, but hosts amazing jazz talent!

Esthers Follies: Anytime we are away from home, Bob (my hubby), always asks the locals what we shouldn’t miss. More than one person recommended Esthers Follies and this show did not disappoint.

Merit Coffee: If you know me well, you know I am kind of a coffee snob. Even my hubby always asks if I have checked out the best place to have coffee when we arrive in a new city. Now we are frequent visitors to Austin, and I have a few coffee spots I really like, but the newly opened Merit coffee in the Seaholm Power Plant center gets the blue ribbon from me for the very best brew!

Mozarts Coffee: This is Austin’s original boutique coffee house with a great location on the lake. If you are looking for a great coffee with an excellent area to work, Mozarts coffee fits the bill.

Walton’s Fancy and Staple: If you like a great cup of coffee and a delicious farm to table breakfast to go with it, then Walton’s Fancy and Staple is destination. I recommend the Avocado Toast (because I am obsessed with it) and the lavender latte (I asked them to cut the sweet by about 50%).

Outdoor Activities in Austin

Since we planned to spend three weeks in Downtown Austin, we packed our bikes and lots of outdoor gear (if you are flying, it is really easy to rent bikes either on the street or at Mellow Johnnys bike shop). Austin is an amazing city for outdoor activities and there are bike trails and hiking trails throughout the city. Here are just a few of my very favorite spots.

Shoal Creek Trail for bike riding: This 6.5-mile family friendly hike and bike cruise runs from 38th Street to Town Lake through Central Austin.

Southern Walnut Creek Trail: Encompassing more than 7.3 miles of multi-use trail running by trees, flatland, soft hills and water, Southern Walnut Creek Trail consists of 10-foot wide concrete paths designed to accommodate a variety of users.  This beautiful nature-filled trail extends from Govalle Park to the Walnut Creek Sports Park at Johnny Morris Road and Daffan Lane and includes 5 bridges, culverts, signs and benches offering a breath-taking view at every turn.

Ladybird Lake Bike and Hike Trail: In the heart of Austin is the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake, a lush, urban path that meanders along the water’s edge and passes by skyscrapers, neighborhoods, ball fields and cultural attractions.

Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail: Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail is a 13.8 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Austin, Texas that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail. I do not recommend trying to bike this trail. You will walk your bike a good portion on the way if you do.

Red Isle Park: This is a paradise for dog lovers as you can have them off leash and they can also swim in the river. If you are considering having a portrait shoot in Austin this is a beautiful spot for a picture or even just a quiet walk along the river.

Laguna Gloria/ The Contemporary Museum: This spectacular location is designed as a museum without walls. Laguna Gloria, a unique, fourteen-acre art-in-nature site that includes the landmark Driscoll Villa, the Betty and Edward Marcus Sculpture Park, the Gatehouse Gallery, and the Art School at Laguna Gloria. I was fortune enough to do an engagement session in this location while we were in Austin!

Austin Botanical Garden: — located on 26 fenced acres in Austin, Texas has often been called “the jewel in the heart of Austin”. Theme gardens such as rose, herb and Japanese garden are interconnected with streams, waterfalls and Koi-filled ponds. The Hartman Prehistoric Garden recreates local dinosaur habitat. This is another beautiful location for a Austin family portrait photo shoot.

Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Park: The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at The University of Texas at Austin is the state botanical garden and arboretum of Texas. The center features more than 900 species of native Texas plants in both garden and natural settings and is home to a breadth of educational programs and events. I recommend this location for engagement sessions, high school senior portrait session or family portrait sessions.

Downtown Austin Church Service

Life Family Austin Church- 310 Downtown Campus in the ACL lower level building Austin- Great message with amazing music. We seriously felt like we were at another amazing Austin music venue. The best part of the service was definitely Pastor Randy Phillips who is a wonderful teacher that really makes the messages from the bible easy to understand and apply to everyday life.