Couple outside

Photography

Create stunning memories on our 25 acre campus. Purchase photography passes here for formally posed photo shoots. The McNay is pleased to provide opportunities for both professional and amateur photographers. Upon arrival, photographers must present your online pass or payment.

Grounds Photography Information

The McNay grounds are a picturesque landscape full of inspiring moments perfect for engagement, quinceañera, senior, or maternity photos, and more. We are pleased to offer these outdoor spaces to professional and amateur photographers taking formally posed, portrait-style photographs. Upon arrival, present your online pass or pay a fee (cash or check are accepted). All photography passes are final and non-refundable.

Grounds Photography Payment Information

  • CLICK HERE to purchase your Grounds Photography Pass up to 48 hours in advance OR pay fee to the security officer patrolling the grounds when you arrive:
    • Base fee, up to 10 guests: $30
    • For groups of 11 or more: $50
    • For groups of 20 or more: $100
  • If a photographer is shooting several different client sessions on the grounds in one day, the fee is charged per client.
  • All photography passes are final and non-refundable.

Photography Guidelines

  • Please note that Museum events and scheduled events/event photography take precedence over standard grounds photography. In the case that there is a scheduled event, you may be asked to clear the area. Please call or check our *rental calendar and event calendar to confirm availability. *Red blocks signify evenings where outdoor rentals will take precedence.
  • Outdoor photography patrons are highly encouraged to come dressed up and ready for their picture-taking sessions. The McNay does not provide changing rooms and public restrooms may not be used as changing facilities for those shooting on the grounds.
  • Photography clients may not wear swimwear or revealing attire.
  • Museum galleries, lobbies or indoor courtyard are not available as sitting areas for portraits.
  • Decorative objects and sculptures on the grounds may not be removed or rearranged.
  • Do not climb on any of the sculptures.
  • Do not stand on or in water fountains.
  • Videotaping is permitted for personal use only and is prohibited in the use of publication, advertising, promotion, or marketing.
  • Drones are not permitted for use anywhere on the grounds.

Wedding Proposals at the McNay

Are you interested in proposing at the McNay? A proposal reservation is required. Contact our Event Rental Coordinator to make a reservation and plan the perfect proposal! Fill out our reservation and contract HERE. For questions, call 210.805.1782 or email. Please note: purchasing a Photography Pass does not = proposal reservation. 

Courtyard & Staircase Photography Information

Plan a photography session against a backdrop unlike anywhere else in San Antonio. Within the Museum, you can enjoy access to our beautiful stairwells and courtyard. Locations only include the Semmes Lobby staircase and the Blackburn Patio.

These areas can only be accessed after entering the Museum and require a reservation.

Siggi Ragnar Photography

Courtyard & Staircase Photography Payment Information

  • Fee (includes 1 hour indoors and photography on the grounds at no additional charge): $200
  • Reservations must be made at least 14 days in advance by contacting indoorphotos@mcnayart.org or using the form below.

Courtyard & Staircase Photography Inquiries (INDOOR RESERVATIONS ARE ONLY ALLOWED WHEN THE MUSEUM IS CLOSED)

Central Daylight Time: 

Sunday, 11 a.m.-noon or 5-6 p.m.
Mondays and Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m. or 6-7 p.m.
Wednesdays and Fridays, 9-10 a.m. or 6-7 p.m.

Central Standard Time:

Sunday, 11 a.m.-noon or 5-6 p.m.
Mondays and Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m.
Wednesdays and Fridays, 9-10 a.m.

Please email indoorphotos@mcnayart.org for Courtyard & Staircase Photography reservations. Reservations must be made in advance for all bookings. Appointment times are based on first come first serve availability.


Describe your inquiry or post your questions below *