Rain Backup Photo Locations at the Pearl
The Historic Pearl in San Antonio is one of the city’s most beloved spots for photo shoots of all types—proposals, engagements, family portraits, and more. Come rain or shine, the Pearl delivers with a variety of stunning locations, making it an excellent choice even if the weather does not cooperate. Since the winter weather has been a little lackluster here in San Antonio, I have put together a detailed guide of the best rain backup photo locations at the Pearl. This way, even if there are cloudy skies overhead, showers will not dampen the smiles on your next photo shoot.
My List of the Top Rain Backup Photo Locations at the Pearl
I recently photographed Zac’s surprise proposal to Sophie at the Pearl. Zac’s plan was to get down on one knee on the little island in Pearl Springs. What was NOT in the plan was rain. And of course, a torrential downpour was forecast for the Saturday of his proposal.
The proposal was going to happen in the afternoon regardless of the weather. Luckily, we ended up with fairly decent skies, but I made plans just in case. Based on these plans, here is my list of the top rain backup photo locations at the Pearl:
Rain Backup Photo Locations at the Pearl in San Antonio: Full Coverage
The Main Bridge at Myrtle Street
This is one of the most popular spots for photos at the Pearl, no matter the state of the cloud cover. Because of the bridge’s popularity, patience is key to get the perfect photo. However, the bridge is fully covered, and you can get a good view of the San Antonio River below.
Underneath the Main Bridge
If the bridge is too popular on top, don’t forget to take photos down below. Same beautiful views, but much less traffic. I would point your camera towards downtown since your view of the river will be blocked by the Riverwalk platform if you look towards Museum Reach.
Entryway of the Cellar Apartment Building
The entryway of the Cellar apartment building is a photographer’s dream, offering full cover and a stunning vaulted brick ceiling. Personally, I think this little entryway looks like something out of Travel and Leisure when shot with a long lens. Even better, the photographer can stay protected underneath the Hiatus patio area and shoot towards the subject in the Cellar. Thus, everyone is happy – and dry.
Tip: Ask the valet staff for permission to use the space, as it’s technically part of the apartment building’s private property.
Underneath the Brewing Machinery at Hotel Emma
This unique location offers full rain cover and an industrial-chic vibe. The brewing machinery, wrapped in vines, creates an interesting textural backdrop. You’ll have to have vision and really tight shots with a telephoto lens to blur out distracting elements like cars and passing visitors.
Kohler Parking Garage
To me, the Kohler Parking Garage offers a wealth of hidden photography locations. First, the third-floor, hotel-facing stairwell offers a fantastic view of the Hotel Emma, especially at sunset. The stairwell is fully covered, making it a great rainy-day spot. Additionally, the clean lines and industrial design of the stairwell create an edgy, modern aesthetic.
Head up one floor from the third level and walk towards the Pearl’s main plaza. Next to the elevator bank, you’ll find a stunning view of Hotel Emma with the Tower of the Americas in the background. This spot is fully covered and is great for backlit shots.
Finally, don’t forget about taking photos in the stairwell itself. The stairwell’s geometric lines and industrial vibe make it an excellent location for creative compositions. Whether shooting upwards or downwards, this open-air but sheltered space offers plenty of natural light.
Train Trolley
The train trolley is fully covered, offering a quirky and nostalgic backdrop. If you happen to be taking photos during the holiday season, then you have the added charm of Christmas decorations and fully lit trees.
Reflective Windows by the Elevator
Located across from the Adelante store, this glass-encased elevator area offers an unexpected bonus—reflections. Shooting from the inside looking out can create dynamic, backlit compositions. When you are stuck with rain, it’s time to get artsy.
Rain Backup Photo Locations at the Pearl in San Antonio: Partial Coverage
Building Overhangs
The good news is that most of the buildings at the Pearl have large roof overhangs allowing you to take many of your normal Pearl shots with some overhead protection from the weather. Provided it is not raining cats and dogs, then you should be able to take photos with your subjects just a wee bit closer to the buildings. This includes the famous fairy light alley near the Culinary Institute of America. Though your angles may be limited, it’s still possible to capture the ambiance of the glowing lights.
Little Island at Pearl Springs
If your proposal is scheduled for the Little Island – as Zac’s was – then you are in luck. The island has lots of cedar branches overhead which should provide pretty good coverage. Also, the ground underneath is some sort of slate tile, so it shouldn’t be that muddy. As long as it isn’t raining sideways, then you should be ok with just a bit of light rain.
Forested Area Around the Amphitheater
It is the same situation at the forested area around the amphitheater by the Hotel Emma. This area is surrounded by trees which should provide ample coverage in light rain. With the right lens and a shallow depth of field, you can isolate the greenery and fairy lights for a dreamy, natural look. Avoid angles that include the parking lot or restaurant areas, as these can distract from the serene vibe.
Hiatus Spa and Retreat Patio
This industrial-style location has partial cover and plenty of height, giving it a gritty yet elegant vibe. It’s a great choice for editorial-style shoots or moody portraits.
Finally, A Word About Private Businesses
Don’t plan to simply scurry inside once the rain starts to fall. All of the businesses at the Pearl are privately owned, and as such, permission to shoot inside these businesses requires prior permission. This includes the Hotel Emma.
Shops and restaurants prioritize their customers’ experience, and impromptu photo shoots can disrupt that. As always, the less obnoxious you are and the less space you take up in a given venue, the more likely you are to be allowed access. If you need more space for lighting equipment or for family members, say for a surprise proposal, then be prepared to pay a photo permit fee.
Final Tips
If you are going to pull out the umbrellas, make them clear umbrellas. This will allow the light through and make it much easier to photograph your subjects underneath.
Also, don’t forget that water and electronics do not mix. If the weather is bad, it may be time to simply reschedule.
Meet Sophie and Zac
I would be remiss if I did not tell you more about the couple that inspired this week’s post, so please meet Sophie and Zac.
Think back to your driver’s ed class in high school. In the most adorable, ‘meet cute’ sort of way, Sophie was assigned as Zac‘s driver’s ed partner. Picture these two driving around and around in circles together in the school parking lot. While stuck in traffic, they realized that they sort of liked each other. Cute, no?
Yes, these two are indeed high school sweethearts. They have been together seven years, and on the day of their seven-year anniversary, Zac proposed. With the aid of Sophie‘s best friend Bella, Zac asked Sophie to marry him. Afterwards, Zac made plans for a romantic stay at the Hotel Emma preceded by reservations at Bohanan’s Steakhouse. In San Antonio at least, this is how you say, ‘I love you.’
Final Thoughts
Rainy days at the Pearl don’t have to dampen your spirits or your photo session! With these rain backup locations in mind, you can make the most of the weather and capture stunning, creative images no matter the forecast. Whether it’s the vaulted ceiling of the Cellar, the twinkling lights near the Culinary Institute, or the reflective windows in the buildings across from Stable Hall, the Pearl has something for every style and occasion.
Enjoy the images and I will have more photo adventures for you next week!
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Are you interested in saying ‘I do’ in San Antonio? Drop me a line and let’s chat about how I can help you. I have hourly rates, and all photo shoots include editing and high-resolution files.
To view more images from my wedding photography portfolio, please visit my website – KellyWilliamsPhotographer.com
