Zachary and Samantha wanted engagement photos that actually felt like their real life in San Antonio. Not overly styled. Not forced. Just places they already spend time together. So we started at Bombay Bicycle Club.

Starting Where They’re Comfortable

When I met them, they were having a couple of beers, exactly how they’d spend a normal weekend. That’s the best way to begin a session. It gives everyone a minute to relax and just be. We grabbed a few photos inside and outside the bar before walking toward Hemisfair Park.

Walking Through Hemisfair Park

Samantha works for the city, so this part of the session turned into a mini history tour. As we walked, she pointed out landmarks and shared stories about the area. I learned that the gondolas at Hemisfair are original from the 1960s. They’re still part of the park decades later. She also told me that Hilton Palacio del Rio was built in just over 200 days for the 1968 World’s Fair using modular rooms stacked into place. Basically built like Legos. You could tell she genuinely loves her city. And Zachary just let her talk, smiling, chiming in here and there. That dynamic says a lot about them.

Hemisfair gave us clean backdrops, open walkways, and classic San Antonio views without feeling busy. It felt timeless but still very local.

Ending at the River Walk

We wrapped up at the San Antonio River Walk — yes, that River Walk from Selena. We kept it simple. Walking shots, quiet moments by the water, a few playful frames in between. They wanted to capture their cultures, their personalities, and their love for each other. The setting helped, but what really made the session work was how comfortable they are together.

Their October Wedding Plans

In October, they’ll be getting married at the San Antonio Botanical Garden with a Día de los Muertos theme.

They’re planning:

• Vibrant colors throughout the design
• An ofrenda to honor loved ones
• A lot of dancing
• And plenty of candid photos with family, especially older relatives

They’ve been clear that documenting family moments matters just as much as the portraits. The hugs, the laughter, the in-between interactions. That’s what they want to remember years from now.

This session felt like a true reflection of them. Relaxed, proud of where they’re from, and excited about what’s ahead. October is going to be good!