Blog Post

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NYC Proposal Photographer: Favorite Surprise Proposal Photos of 2025

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From Central Park to the Brooklyn Bridge, Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City, and botanical gardens across New York City, we helped plan and photograph 522 uniquely special surprise proposals and engagements in 2025.

Every proposal had its own story. Its own nerves. Its own perfectly New York nuance. And while we treat every engagement like it’s the most important one of the year—because it is—there are always a few moments that stick with us long after the shutter clicks, and the last congrats are spoken. Here are some of our favorite NYC proposal photography moments from 2025.

Here are our favorite Proposal Photos of 2025 as a gallery below!

Jonathan Heisler Photography is comprised of New York City photographers specializing in photographing private NYC proposals, as well as engagement sessions and weddings.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING A PROPOSAL PHOTOGRAPHER IN NYC

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Thee Story Behind the Lens: NYC’s Best Proposal Photographer

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When it comes to capturing one of life’s most meaningful moments—the instant someone says yes—few things are as important as choosing the right photographer. In New York City, a city filled with iconic backdrops and endless possibilities, Jonathan Heisler Photography has become a trusted name for couples seeking the perfect surprise proposal photos.

As a professional photographer with years of experience across weddings, engagements, and events, Jonathan has developed a reputation for being the New York’s most reliable, professional, and qualified Proposal Photographer in NYC. From Central Park’s hidden gems to skyline views at The Edge in Hudson Yards, to the outer boroughs Jonathan knows how to balance candid emotion with breathtaking scenery, creating timeless images that couples will cherish forever.

Why Choose Jonathan Heisler for Your NYC Proposal?

  • Experience with surprise proposals: Jonathan understands the nerves and excitement that come with planning a proposal. His discreet approach ensures he blends into the scene, ready to capture the exact moment without giving away the surprise.

  • Knowledge of NYC locations: From Brooklyn Bridge Park to Fort Tryon, Jonathan can recommend spots that are all of the agove; romantic, private, easy to access with a good story, and photographically stunning.

  • Natural storytelling: His photography style is authentic and emotional, focusing on the genuine connection between couples.

BOOK NOW!

Where is the Best Place to Propose in New York City during the Spring?

"Where to propose in NYC during Springtime" is a question often asked this time of year, so please read through our top suggested and recommended locations below. Having photographed over 2500+ secret proposals throughout NYC, we decided to create a go-to guide of our favorite spots to serve as a starting point in planning your big moment!

As Professional New York City Proposal Photographers, our favorite springtime proposal locations to secretly photograph a proposal in NYC are (not listed in any specific order) listed below. When creating this list we thought about places that were private, with views, and locations that were quintessential New York City!

1) bow bridge - Central Park NYC

When it comes to photographing a proposal in New York City, few places are as timeless, romantic, and visually stunning as Bow Bridge in Central Park. With its iconic design, scenic surroundings, and serene atmosphere, Bow Bridge is a dream setting for capturing one of life’s most unforgettable moments. Further adding to the magic of this location, we enjoy photographing proposals at Bow Bridge because of its beautiful and flattering light.

PLEASE NOTE - We can only photograph here in the late afternoon due to lighting.

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2) Bethesda fountain and terrace - Central Park NYC

Bethesda Fountain and Terrace is one of the most beloved and photographed locations in all of New York City. At the center of the terrace, the Angel of the Waters statue stands gracefully above the fountain, with the surrounding Bethesda Terrace adding a layer of grandeur to the setting. With its intricate stonework, grand staircases, and the beautifully tiled arcade ceiling, the space feels like it’s been lifted from a fairy tale.

NOTE - The earlier in the morning, the better! This area gets busy.

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3) model boat pond - central park nyc

The Model Boat Pond is one of our favorite places to photograph proposals this time of year. Springtime here is nothing short of spectacular, as the area becomes wrapped in the beauty of blooming cherry blossom trees, creating a strikingly beautiful and delicate landscape for each photo.

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4) conservatory garden - central park nyc

The Central Park Conservatory Garden never fails as a great spot for a proposal due to its beauty, quiet atmosphere, and relatively secluded location, making it feel more intimate and special. The garden's diverse floral displays, especially during peak bloom, provide a picturesque backdrop. Additionally, it's less crowded than other popular Central Park locations, offering more privacy.

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5) gantry plaza - long island city

Photographing at Gantry Plaza, along the Long Island City waterfront captures New York City perfectly with its iconic New York City views; Empire State Building, 59th street bridge, the UN and our famous NYC Sunset/Sunrises. However, what I like most about photographing in Long Island City and Gantry Plaza State Park is how private and intimate this area is when compared to other parts of New York City. Luckily the tourists haven’t figured this out yet!

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6) governors island - nyc

While Central Park and Brooklyn Bridge Park often steal the spotlight, Governors Island is one of NYC’s most underrated yet unforgettable destinations for romantic moments, especially proposals. Just a short ferry ride from Lower Manhattan, the island offers the feel of a serene getaway without ever leaving the city. While there are many locations on Governors Island to choose from, we love Outlook Hill. As one of the island’s highest vantage points, Outlook Hill offers 360-degree views that are truly unmatched of the Statue of Liberty, Lower Manhattan Skyline and New York Harbor.

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7) roosevelt island - nyc

Nestled in the East River, Roosevelt Island offers an unmatched perspective of Manhattan, and its quiet, tranquil vibe makes it feel like an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here’s why Roosevelt Island stands out as a unique and romantic location for a proposal: a scenic ride on the Roosevelt Island tram, incredible views of Manhattan’s east side, a tranquil escape from the city hustle, and most importantly; a romantic spot for a proposal!

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Jonathan Heisler Photography is comprised of New York City photographers specializing in photographing private NYC proposals, as well as engagement sessions and weddings.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING A PROPOSAL PHOTOGRAPHER IN NYC

Next Steps ... Photographing Your NYC Proposal

Having photographed over 2,500 surprise marriage proposals in New York City, we’ve learned a lot about what makes a proposal perfect, beautiful, and stress-free. From lighting and crowds to how to get to “X” location at “Y” time without tipping anyone off—we’ve got you covered. Here is a quick guide to next steps once we are booked and some quick tips.

Step 1: Review the plan!

Double check all of the information on the agreement is still accurate! Ensure you know how to get to the spot. We sent a Google Map pin on the Google agreement, so you can easily navigate there.

IF YOU ARE NOT FROM NYC

CENTRAL PARK - Cars are not allowed in the park! Let Google Maps tell you where to go and how to get there; walking, subway, car. Plan your route using the “I am leaving at TIME” feature.

UBERS AND TAXIS: Allow time for traffic if you are taking a car. There is traffic and it’s going to be BAD traffic.

Walking: You’re going to have to walk to a lot of places. That’s just a fact.

Busy!: This is a city of 9 million + a BIGILLION more tourists. There are going to be people.

Step 2: Leading up to the day!

We’ll touch base week of, the day prior, and day of via text.

Step 3: Proposal Day! - We have a photo of you, you have a photo of us.

On the big day, your photographer arrives about 30 minutes early. We want to ensure we are 1) there before you and 2) the spot is good to go; lighting, crowds, and the view! We’ll send over a selfie that’s “marked up” (see below), so you know exactly who to look for and where /how to stand for the best angles. We emphasize catching authentic emotion; your partner’s reaction is always the priority. We move around as we capture.

When do you get your photos, and how many photos?

All photos captured are delivered edited, full resolution print ready, and without watermarks within 7 days. These are 100% your photos.

FAQs on how we capture a picture perfect surprise marriage proposal in NYC

  • FAQ #1 - Are your proposal photos staged? No — all the proposals you see are real, not posed.

  • FAQ #2 - Do you hide somewhere? Not exactly. We stay close nearby, camera ready, but not hidden in bushes. NYC has enough lurking cameras already.

  • FAQ #3 - When do you start photographing? Once you’re clearly proposing. We wait for that moment so the surprise stays intact.

  • FAQ #4 - Do you know what you look like to my partner? Yes. We’ll exchange photos with you so your partner doesn’t recognize us early on.

    Tips and tricks to being a ROCKSTAR NYC Proposal Photographer

  • TIP #1 Let us know what you’re wearing and text us when you’re 5minutes away, so we can ensure the spot is ready for you and not crowded.

  • TIP #2 The photographer will stand in the spot, so no one else is there. As you approach the spot, your photographer will walk out of the spot, and you’ll walk in to the spot.

  • TIP #3 Ask us to snap a candid photo of you two with your phone just before you propose. It helps loosen things up, gives you a fun keepsake, and nobody suspects—the real camera is already ready.

BOOK NOW!

Our Guide to Planning and Photographing Your NYC Proposal

Having photographed over 2,500 surprise marriage proposals in New York City, we’ve learned a lot about what makes a proposal perfect, beautiful, and stress-free. From lighting and crowds to how to get to “X” location at “Y” time without tipping anyone off—we’ve got you covered.

Step 1: Let’s Talk Details

We’ll start with a call or email to discuss your proposal vision—date, time, location, and how you want the moment to feel. I’ll answer any and all questions you might have, and walk you through our process.

Step 2: Create an Agreement

Step 3: Proposal Day! - We have a photo of you, you have a photo of us.

On the big day, your photographer arrives about 30 minutes early. We want to ensure we are 1) there before you and 2) the spot is good to go; lighting, crowds, and the view! We’ll send over a selfie that’s “marked up” (see below), so you know exactly who to look for and where /how to stand for the best angles. We emphasize catching authentic emotion; your partner’s reaction is always the priority. We move around as we capture.

When do you get your photos, and how many photos?

All photos captured are delivered edited, full resolution print ready, and without watermarks within 7 days. These are 100% your photos.

FAQs on how we capture a picture perfect surprise marriage proposal in NYC

  • FAQ #1 - Are your proposal photos staged? No — all the proposals you see are real, not posed.

  • FAQ #2 - Do you hide somewhere? Not exactly. We stay close nearby, camera ready, but not hidden in bushes. NYC has enough lurking cameras already.

  • FAQ #3 - When do you start photographing? Once you’re clearly proposing. We wait for that moment so the surprise stays intact.

  • FAQ #4 - Do you know what you look like to my partner? Yes. We’ll exchange photos with you so your partner doesn’t recognize us early on.

    Tips and tricks to being a ROCKSTAR NYC Proposal Photographer

  • TIP #1 Let us know what you’re wearing and text us when you’re 5minutes away, so we can ensure the spot is ready for you and not crowded.

  • TIP #2 The photographer will stand in the spot, so no one else is there. As you approach the spot, your photographer will walk out of the spot, and you’ll walk in to the spot.

  • TIP #3 Ask us to snap a candid photo of you two with your phone just before you propose. It helps loosen things up, gives you a fun keepsake, and nobody suspects—the real camera is already ready.

BOOK NOW!