where to take engagement photos in nyc: 10 perfect spots

new york city is home to countless beautiful spots for engagement photos. with its mix of historic architecture, scenic parks, and iconic landmarks, the city offers a variety of backdrops to capture your love story.

when helping couples choose a location, i always start with one simple question: is there a place that holds special meaning for you? maybe it’s where you had your first date, where you fell in love, or just a spot that feels like yours.choosing a meaningful location can make your engagement photos even more special.

but if nothing specific comes to mind, don’t worry—nyc is filled with incredible places, each with its own charm. to help spark some inspiration, here are 10 of my favorite engagement photo locations across the city.

1. astoria park

located in my favorite borough, queens, astoria park offers one of the best engagement photo settings in the city. nestled between the hell gate bridge and the rfk bridge, with a stunning view of the manhattan skyline, this park provides a perfect mix of urban and natural scenery.

my personal favorite spot? beneath the towering hell gate bridge, where massive concrete pillars reflect light beautifully, adding a dramatic and cinematic feel to your photos. the park is also full of staircases, unique trees, and quiet corners for intimate moments.

if you schedule your session in the summer, there’s a good chance you’ll find an ice cream truck, adding a fun, nostalgic touch to your shoot.

2. central park

nothing embodies new york city quite like central park. with its mix of iconic architecture and lush greenery, it’s a timeless choice for engagement photos.

some of the best spots include:

• bethesda terrace & fountain – beautiful stonework, soft lighting, and a stunning milton tile ceiling
• bow bridge – classic romance with a view of the city skyline
• the mall & literary walk – tree-lined paths that transform beautifully in spring and fall
• the ramble & strawberry fields – for a more nature-filled, secluded feel

central park is gorgeous year-round, but it’s especially magical in spring (cherry blossoms and tulips) and fall (golden foliage on the mall’s elm trees).

3. domino park

along the brooklyn waterfront in williamsburg, domino park blends industrial city vibes with vibrant greenery. its rustic wooden bleachers, the historic domino sugar factory, and panoramic views of the williamsburg bridge and manhattan skyline make it an amazing location for engagement photos.

for the best lighting and fewer crowds, i recommend scheduling your session in the early morning when the sun rises over the city.

4. fort tryon

for a more secluded, storybook-like setting, fort tryon park is a hidden gem. located in upper manhattan, this park is home to the cloisters, giving it a distinctly european feel.

some of my favorite spots include:

• billings terrace – beautiful architecture with a romantic, old-world charm
• linden terrace – panoramic views and lots of natural light
• heather garden – vibrant flowers in spring and summer

since this park has plenty of tree cover, you can shoot any time of day, but golden hour adds an extra touch of warmth.

5. sands point preserve 

for a gatsby-esque engagement session, sands point preserve on long island is an unbeatable location. it was the inspiration for east egg in the great gatsby and features a historic mansion, sprawling gardens, and waterfront views.

keep in mind that a photography permit is required ($450), but this gives you exclusive access to the mansion’s elegant rooms, stunning windows, and vintage charm for two hours. the soft natural light through the old single-pane windows makes for especially dreamy portraits.

6. fort greene park 

this brooklyn park offers a mix of charming tree-lined paths and striking architecture, making it a versatile location.

highlights include:

• the grand staircase – leading lines for dramatic compositions
• prison ship martyrs’ monument – a striking focal point
• statue of liberty green doors – a fun pop of color

this park is perfect for couples who want a mix of nature and urban elegance.

7. new york public library / bryant park

for a classic new york city meets literary romance feel, the new york public library on fifth avenue is a stunning backdrop. with its white marble beaux-arts architecture, it exudes sophistication.

tips for shooting here:

• arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds
• photography inside the library is restricted unless you have a wedding booked there
• use nearby bryant park for additional variety—greenery + city skyline

8. brooklyn bridge

one of nyc’s most iconic locations, the brooklyn bridge is a perfect blend of romance and urban energy.

the best time to shoot? sunrise—when the golden light hits the bridge and the crowds are minimal. weekdays are also better for avoiding tourists. whether you capture the bridge in sunlight, fog, or even rain, the result is always stunning.

9. prospect park

often called brooklyn’s answer to central park, prospect park offers just as many incredible spots, but with fewer crowds.

highlights include:

• the boathouse – elegant white building with waterfront reflections
• hidden pathways & bridges – secluded, intimate spots
• waterfalls & open fields – for a more natural, dreamy vibe

for the best lighting, aim for early morning or golden hour.

10. soho 

if you love city vibes, high-end storefronts, and vintage architecture, soho is a fantastic engagement photo location.

why soho?

• cobblestone streets & cast-iron buildings – a mix of classic and modern new york
• endless variety – every street offers a new backdrop
• vibrant yet intimate – perfect for couples who want an authentic nyc feel

whether you’re casually strolling or posing against a historic storefront, soho provides timeless city charm.

final thoughts

this list only scratches the surface—nyc is full of hidden gems and breathtaking locations for engagement photos. whether you prefer urban skylines, lush parks, or historic landmarks, there’s a perfect spot to match your style.

if you’re planning your engagement session and need help choosing the best location, let’s chat! i’d love to help you find the perfect setting to tell your love story. click here to learn more about my engagement sessions, i love coming up with creative new shoots!