Favorite Spots for Engagement Photos in NYC

We all know New York City has so many great options for photos.

But how do you decide? I know it can be difficult to find just the right location. I always ask my couples to first consider where they have spent most of their time. We want the location to be meaningful to you. But, if you haven’t spent as much time in NYC, then we should consider your style and what backdrop would work best for you as a couple.

Yes, Central Park is a fabulous location. It’s romantic and iconic – but there are other options too.

Last week I was speaking to one of my couples, and we were planning their engagement session for early April next year. (That time of year is always great to shoot because of all the beautiful cherry blossoms!) I love being able to spend the time to get to know them and brainstorm together.

Whether you are looking to plan your pre-wedding shoot or have engagement photos taken, or just want some ideas on where to take nice pictures with your friends and family, I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite locations.

This definitely is not an all inclusive list, but I do hope it will be a good starting point for you.

(Just some quick notes to keep in mind – with NYC locations a few of them do require permits. And, you should also take into consideration the crowd to make sure that is something you will still be comfortable with.)

New York City Locations

1. Tribeca

Tribeca is so NYC but still feels a little bit away from it all. There is less of a crowd, a beautiful urban landscape, cobblestone streets, and beautiful architecture that makes Tribeca one of my favorite locations to shoot.

2. Central Park

Central Park is always going to be a favorite. I know that so many feel like it’s “been done before” when it comes to Central Park. But, there are truly so many little spots within Central Park that could make it the perfect, romantic location for you. The tried and true locations within Central Park are Bethesda Terrace and Fountain and the Mall. Spring and Fall are both favorite times to shoot. If you’re okay with the crowd, then keep this one towards the top of your list. For these locations at Central Park, we won’t need a permit to shoot either.

3. Central Park – Boathouse

If you want “something different” but still want to have your shoot at Central Park, then you can try the area near the Boathouse. It’s close to Bethesda Fountain which is picturesque. There will be a short (or sometimes long) line for the boat, but it’s definitely something that is worth the wait.

4. Central Park – Conservatory Garden

A permit is required here. (I learned the hard way.) But, it’s a beautiful location. It’s still a apart of central park, but not as crowded.

5. Central Park – Bethesda Castle

For the longest time, I did not know about Bethesda Castle. This spot in Central Park has such a beautiful view! Now, they don’t allow professional pictures inside of the castle. But, I can shoot from the outside and it makes a beautiful backdrop.

6. Riverside Park

OMG, when I saw the rings, I fell in love with this NYC spot in the Upper West Side. It’s on the water, and such a romantic location for a shoot.

7. Lincoln Center

Another great location – located in the Upper West Side!

8. Grand Central

If your engagement session includes multiple locations, then Grand Central is a nice stop. It’s an opportunity to capture classic New York and have great architecture as your backdrop. I like Grand Central because it’s not to far from Bryant Park and it’s a short taxi ride to Central Park.

9. Bryant Park and The Public Library

Bryant Park is a nice location in Manhattan but it’s guaranteed to be a bit crowded.

10. Time Square

If you want classic New York, then you can never go wrong with Time Square. It will be crowded, so as long as you don’t mind all eyes on you, it can definitely be a great time.

Outside NYC

1. Brooklyn Botanic Garden

There is definitely a permit and fee required for shoots here. It is such a beautiful location, but you just need to be comfortable with a security guard escorting you throughout the duration of the shoot.

2. DUMBO/ Brooklyn Bridge

This has got to be a signature location for engagement sessions. For me DUMBO is an all time favorite. You get the cobblestone streets, unique architecture, urban landscape, and there’s even a small park for nice romantic nature shots. Not to mention, you also have the beautiful NYC skyline as your backdrop! My recommendation is you do schedule your shoot for DUMBO, we will need to check the local events calendar. I like DUMBO because it’s not as crowded as shooting in the city as long as there are no other events going on at the same time.

3. NY Botanical Garden

This is a great alternative to Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Last time I checked there were not any fees for a permit. It can be a nice change if you want something outside of the city.

4. Long Island City

Not as crowded. And, you have the beautiful NYC skyline as your backdrop as well as the water and a beautiful park. Love this location something just outside of the Manhattan.

5. Long Beach

Love the boardwalk and the ocean. 🙂

Now, I would love to hear from you. What is your ideal location to take pictures? Let me know your favorite in the comments below or shoot me an email at tina@ksdweddings.com

Until next time,

Tina