How to Plan Wedding Photos Around Texas Heat | Sofia & Tyler's June Wedding at Sereno Estate
Category: Wedding Planning | Austin Wedding Photographer
TL;DR
Summer weddings in Texas can be absolutely stunning, as long as you plan for the heat.
Choose shaded ceremony and reception spaces whenever possible.
Expect the majority of your wedding portraits to take place outdoors.
Keep everyone comfortable with fans, parasols, refreshments, and plenty of shade.
The Texas heat is temporary, but those sunset wedding photos last forever.
There's no denying it, Texas summers are HOT. But if you've been dreaming of an outdoor wedding surrounded by rolling fields, giant oak trees, and golden sunsets, don't let triple-digit temperatures scare you away.
Sofia & Tyler's June wedding at The Sereno Estate in Florence, Texas is proof that with a little planning, a summer wedding can still be comfortable, beautiful, and incredibly photogenic.
Surrounded by rustic details, soft pale yellow florals, charming lemon accents, and one breathtaking old oak tree, their wedding perfectly balanced elegance with practical planning. Guests stayed comfortable with handheld fans, umbrellas, cold refreshments, and a shaded reception under a large tent, all while enjoying one of the most gorgeous sunsets Texas has to offer.
If you're planning one of many beautiful Austin weddings, Texas Hill Country weddings, or celebrations at Central Texas venues, here are the biggest lessons to keep in mind.
Why Texas Summer Weddings Are Worth It
Summer often comes with lower venue pricing and more availability throughout Central Texas.
Longer daylight hours also mean:
More time for portraits
Incredible golden hour light
Longer outdoor cocktail hours
Relaxed reception timelines
Gorgeous colorful sunsets
The trade-off?
You'll probably sweat.
And honestly...that's okay.
The secret isn't avoiding the heat, it's planning around it.
How Do You Plan Wedding Photos Around Texas Heat?
The biggest misconception couples have is thinking they'll only be outside for the ceremony.
In reality, many of your favorite wedding photos happen outdoors:
First Look
Wedding party portraits
Family photos
Bride & Groom portraits
Sunset portraits
Detail photos around the venue
Knowing this ahead of time lets you build a timeline that keeps everyone comfortable.
Choose a Cool Getting Ready Space
Hair and makeup hold up much better when everyone starts the day in air conditioning.
Look for bridal suites that are:
Bright with natural window light
Spacious
Well air-conditioned
Close to the ceremony location
This gives everyone a chance to stay cool before heading outside.
Pick a Dress That Works With Texas
If you're getting married in June, July, or August, keep the weather in mind when dress shopping.
Lightweight fabrics tend to photograph beautifully while keeping you more comfortable throughout the day.
Consider:
Crepe
Chiffon
Organza
Lightweight tulle
Heavy satin, multiple underskirts, or extra-thick ball gowns can become much warmer during outdoor portraits.
Choose Shade Whenever Possible
One of the smartest decisions Sofia & Tyler made was holding their ceremony beneath a massive old oak tree.
Natural shade provides:
Better guest comfort
Softer, more flattering lighting
Less squinting
Cooler temperatures during the ceremony
When looking at Central Texas venues, always ask what shade options are available during your ceremony time.
Keep Your Guests Comfortable
Small comfort touches make a huge difference.
Consider providing:
Handheld fans
Parasols or umbrellas
Cold bottled water
Lemonade
Infused water stations
Having refreshments available as guests arrive immediately sets the tone and helps everyone stay comfortable before the ceremony begins.
Don't Forget Your Wedding Party
Your bridesmaids and groomsmen will likely spend more time outside than anyone else.
Have:
Portable battery fans
Cold water nearby
Shade during portrait breaks
Plenty of time to cool off indoors between events
Happy wedding parties always photograph better.
Covered Reception Spaces Are Worth It
Outdoor receptions are beautiful, but full afternoon sun can become exhausting.
If you're planning an outdoor reception, consider:
A large reception tent
Covered pavilion
Permanent shade structure
This allows guests to enjoy dinner and dancing without sitting in direct sunlight.
Pack a Summer Wedding Emergency Kit
Your photographer can help with plenty of little fixes throughout the day, but it's always smart to have a few essentials nearby.
Bring:
Blotting papers
Handkerchiefs
Mini towels
Extra makeup for touch-ups
Setting spray
Small portable fan
A quick touch-up takes less than a minute and helps everyone feel camera-ready throughout the day.
Summer Weddings Are Absolutely Worth It
Yes - you'll probably sweat.
Yes - it'll likely be over 100°.
But you'll also get:
Incredible sunsets
Warm summer colors
Long evenings with your favorite people
Beautiful outdoor portraits
More relaxed timelines
Often lower venue pricing
With thoughtful planning, the Texas heat becomes just another part of the story, not something that keeps you from having your dream wedding.
As an Austin wedding photographer who's photographed weddings all across the Texas Hill Country, I always help couples build realistic timelines that allow plenty of breaks, shade, and opportunities to stay comfortable while still capturing every important moment.
If you're planning a summer wedding, I promise you can absolutely have gorgeous photos without letting the heat take over your day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is June too hot for a Texas wedding?
Not at all. June weddings are very common throughout Central Texas. Planning for shade, hydration, and cooling breaks makes a huge difference.
What is the best time for outdoor wedding photos in summer?
Golden hour, typically the hour before sunset - provides the most flattering light while also avoiding the hottest part of the day. You want to set your ceremony time 1.5 - 2 Hours before sunset. You can use my Wedding Ceremony Time Tracker Here!
Should I provide fans for my guests?
Absolutely. Handheld fans are inexpensive, practical, and guests genuinely appreciate them during outdoor ceremonies.
Can outdoor weddings still look beautiful in 100-degree weather?
Definitely. With thoughtful timelines, shaded ceremony locations, and plenty of hydration, summer weddings photograph beautifully and often have some of the best sunsets of the year.
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