10 Engagement Session Photo Locations In NYC
You're engaged! Congratulations! Now that the initial excitement has worn off a bit and you're starting to think about your wedding day, you're likely wondering about one thing: your engagement photos.
Where should you go for your session? What should you wear? We've rounded up the 10 best spots in NYC for your engagement photos. Keep reading for all the details.
Central Park: An Iconic Location
Start your search for the perfect engagement photo session spot in NYC by thinking about iconic locations. Central Park is a great option—it's quintessentially New York, and there are so many different backdrops to choose from. You can go for a classic walk in the park, pose in front of the Bethesda Fountain, or head to The Ramble for a more natural look.
Grand Central Station: Capture Some Bustle
If you're looking for a spot that will add a little urban edge to your photos, Grand Central Station is the place to go. There's something about the hustle and bustle of the trains and the people rushing by that makes for a really interesting backdrop.
If your photographer is up for it, they can even capture some shots of you in front of the famous clock or in the Vanderbilt Hall. Just be aware that since this is such a popular spot, it can get pretty crowded, so be prepared to do some dodging if necessary.
Brooklyn Bridge: A Romantic Setting
If you're looking for a truly romantic setting for your engagement photos, look no further than the Brooklyn Bridge. This iconic landmark provides the perfect backdrop for your photos, with its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the cityscape.
Not only is the Brooklyn Bridge a popular tourist spot, but it's also a favorite among locals. This means that you'll have plenty of people around to help create a lively and vibrant atmosphere in your photos. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even walk across the bridge for some truly epic shots.
Bryant Park: Stroll Through Nature
What could be more romantic than a stroll through nature with your beloved? Bryant Park is the perfect spot for a romantic engagement photo session. Located in midtown Manhattan, the park offers beautiful gardens and large trees for breathtaking backdrops. Plus, there’s plenty of green space for you to capture memorable moments as you wander around.
Conveniently located near New York Public Library, Bryant Park also has lovely fountains, sculptures and ponds that you can use to create unique engagement photos. The terraces at the American Radiator building and the fountain plaza serve as excellent spots to snap beautiful pictures. You’ll definitely have a hard time choosing from the many amazing angles in this park!
High Line: An Unexpected Alternative
Think outside the box and go to the High Line for your engagement photos! The multiple terraces, unique greenery, and scenic views of NYC make this a great place to show off the newly engaged couple. Plus, the rail track-like pathway makes for an interesting backdrop that's unique to the city.
Standing at a height of 30 feet, you can capture breathtaking shots with the vibrant cityscape in the background. If you need more scenery, there's always iconic landmarks like Chelsea Market, which are close by and offer a good variety of photo ops.
The bonus is that this location is free for everyone, so you don't have to worry about additional fees or permits. It's also an easygoing environment with plenty of space to roam around or even take a break from all the photo shooting. You can't go wrong with a romantic engagement photo session at The High Line!
Greenwich Village: Take a Quiet Moment
Spend a leisurely afternoon or evening in the cozy and charming neighborhood of Greenwich Village. This tranquil spot gives you the opportunity to take a quiet moment with your partner for a romantic photo session.
The iconic brownstones provide a classic, traditional backdrop for engagement portraits, with trees, flowers and cobblestone streets adding to the atmosphere of romance. You can meander down some of the side streets, take a few selfies in historical buildings, and find the perfect backdrop for your shoot!
Greenwich Village is also home to some of NYC’s most beloved institutions like Washington Square Park, NYU and The Strand Bookstore—the perfect places to grab that romantic photo you’ve been dreaming about!
DUMBO: Views of the Cityscape
The Brooklyn neighborhood of DUMBO is the perfect place for stunning engagement photos, thanks to its unparalleled views of Manhattan’s skyline. You can capture iconic cityscape shots from the Manhattan Bridge, or take sunset photos from Empire Stores with Brooklyn Bridge Park in the background. There are also plenty of cobblestone streets and brick walls that will give your engagement photos a timeless, romantic feel. Plus, you can always check out Jane’s Carousel and Washington Street at low tide for more unique shots!
Times Square: Neon Lights and Brightening Vibes
Looking for a spot with energy and personality? Times Square is the perfect fit! Packed with people, this area stands out due to its massive video screens, neon lights, and the iconic Broadway theater marquees. Times Square has been a tourist favorite for decades, but it’s much more than a tourist destination.
There are plenty of places to make great backdrops for romantic shots in the heart of Times Square. From the great red staircase at 1271 Avenue of Americas to the expansive area in front of TKTS ticket booth, there are plenty of settings that will let you capture some truly stunning shots that represent your love for each other in front of an iconic New York City landmark.
But remember: As popular as this place is (and it can get incredibly crowded!) always be aware of your surroundings and don’t forget to smile! There’s nothing like capturing a picture-perfect moment amidst all that bustling energy.
The Cloisters Garden: Escape to the Middle Ages
Make your way to the very top of Manhattan and explore the iconic Cloisters Museum and Gardens. This medieval French-style museum located in Fort Tryon Park is incredibly photogenic! The gardens, full of pathways and stone benches, will make you feel like you’ve escaped to the Middle Ages.
Let the lush greens and stunning views inspire your engagement photos. Capture sweet moments while walking around this spot or take some shots in front of the pond. Climb up to the top of the hill for breathtaking views of the Hudson River, New Jersey Palisades, and uptown Manhattan. Don’t forget to look up at the sky—you will be amazed by how beautiful it looks when surrounded by all these ancient structures!
New York Public Library Steps: Look for Adventure
Take it from us — the steps of New York Public Library are a great place to take your engagement photos. The iconic steps are full of adventure, and the views just keep getting better as you ascend the staircase. Plus, the library serves as a great backdrop for any photos you take while standing at the top!
You can also add to your photo session by taking a trip through Bryant Park, located right next to NYPL. Not only is it a great spot for getting some outdoor shots, you can also find some hidden gems like banks of flowers that serve as the perfect background for your photos. For those looking for something extra special — and why not be adventurous? — there is also a carousel situated within this park that's perfect for playful shots!
Conclusion
So, if you're looking for an amazing backdrop for your engagement photos, look no further than NYC! With so many amazing locations to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot to capture some unforgettable memories.