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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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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

Our Guide to Planning and Photographing Your NYC Proposal

Having captured over 2,500+ surprise marriage proposals throughout New York City has proven invaluable when helping new clients plan their big moment. We know where, when, and how to propose when crowds, lighting, and the view are just some of your concerns. Even how to get your partner to “X” spot at “Y” time is a task we know how to handle.

Step 1

Let’s talk on the phone or over email. Once we get the details ironed out, I’ll put together an agreement summarizing your proposal plan; Date, Time, and Location with an “X” marks the spot. Along with the agreement, I will also ask for a photo of you both, so I know who to photograph.

Step 2: Once we receive all the necessary information we are confirmed!

As we get closer to your NYC Proposal date (Week of, Day prior, Morning of, and upon our arrival) we’ll text you confirming all the information for your proposal plan is still correct.

Step 3: The Day of Your NYC Proposal

Upon the photographer’s arrival, 30minutes ahead of you, your photographer will text over a marked up selfie (see below). This marked up selfie is crucial in helping you 1) know who to look for and 2) with where to stand, so we capture optimal photos. We always prioritize your partner’s reaction in our photos.

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

  • FAQ #1 - All proposals on our website are real, and are NOT staged

  • FAQ #2 - NO - We do not hide in a bush! This is NYC and every tourists has a camera in their hand or at their side. We sit close by with our camera at our side and wait.

  • FAQ #3 - We don’t start photographing until you are clearly proposing - We don’t want to ruin the surprise.

  • FAQ #4 - We have a photo of you, and you have a photo of us - Your partner has no idea who we are!

    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 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 for a photo of you both on your cellphone. We’ll help you pose, take the photo on your phone, and then you’ll propose. Don’t worry, out camera is at our side and we’ll quickly swap to the real camera.

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.

The Best Spots for a Secret NYC Christmas Marriage Proposal!

There is something truly magical and festive about New York during the holiday season. The Christmas Trees, the sparkling decorations, the store windows, and the energy of this amazing, hustling, and bustling city make it the perfect place for a surprise marriage proposal. Below are some of my favorite spots for your NYC Christmas season proposal.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

When you think of New York City and Christmas, you instantly think of the world famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. While this is a magical and festive place, it’s also one of the most densely populated and crowded places in NYC during the holiday season. Don’t believe us on how crowded this area is, then checkout this! Our team has captured countless picture perfect secret proposals at the tree before leveraging our experience at Rockefeller Center during the Christmas season.

See more examples of a Rockefeller Center Christmas proposal here!

Lotte New York Palace

The Christmas Tree at the Lotte New Palace is timeless and their courtyard celebration is special. There are carolers, hot chocolate, and decor all around. What’s not present here are the thick crowds, as the Lotte New York Palace is one block away from the chaos of Rockefeller Plaza.

Bryant Park Christmas Shops

If it’s hard just to walk at the Rockefeller Christmas tree, it’s going to be impossible to get down on one knee. Bryant Park features its own Christmas tree and countless holiday shops with festive decorations. The spot we choose in Bryant Park for secret marriage proposals tends to be less crowded than other parts, and would feature the Empire State Building in the background of their proposal.

See more examples of a Bryant Park Christmas proposal here!

The Plaza Hotel and Lotte New York Palace

I don’t think anything is more iconic than New York City’s historic Plaza Hotel during the Christmas season. The staff at the Plaza do an amazing job of decorating the lobby, which is open to the public. For Nick’s proposal, we worked with the hotel to close off an area just to the side of the Christmas trees. What’s nice about a Plaza Hotel proposal is you can tell your partner you have a “reservation” at one of their restaurants or bars. This give

See more examples of a Plaza Hotel Christmas proposal here!

Brooklyn Bridge Park (Night)

Brooklyn Bridge Park offers a unique view of Lower Manhattan with the Brooklyn Bridge, World Trade Center, and the Empire State Building looking North. This area has several iconic restaurants such as The River Cafe and Celestine, which you can leverage for a reason to be there at a set time; I.e. “I have dinner reservations at 8pm. Let’s go to DUMBO at 7pm to checkout the view".”

See more examples of a Brooklyn Bridge Park night time proposal here!

6th Avenue Christmas Balls & Lights

(Near Radio City Music Hall) - During the holiday season there is no other place to be than New York City! The city offers so many different places to get that iconic Christmas look and feel; Rockefeller Christmas tree, Radio City Music Hall, Bryant Park Christmas shops, Central Park. While the city is very crowded during this time of the year, there are ways to capture big moments like a secret marriage proposal and make it look more intimate than it is. The big Christmas decorations off of 6th Ave near Radio City are a great festive alternative to the Rockefeller Christmas tree, and yet close enough to the tree where we can go there for post proposal photos.

See more examples of a 6th Ave Christmas Decoration proposal here!

Bryant Park Ice Skating Rink

Step 1: Coordinate with the Bryant Park Ice Skating Center to obtain permission. During the holidays, the rink is very busy and a proposal on the ice with the public skating around is strictly prohibited. It would be dangerous and rink officials will stop your proposal. Working with the rink officials will provide you a safe and beautiful moment.

Step 2: Select a time and work with us to photograph the moment.

See more examples of a Bryant Park ice skating rink proposal here!

Gantry Plaza - Long Island City (Night)

As an experienced professional NYC Proposal Photographer I know where you should propose and where you should not propose at night. Long Island City’s Gantry Plaza State Park is 110% where you should propose, day or night, as it captures the NYC skyline perfectly.

See more examples of a Gantry Plaza Long Island City night time proposal here!

Jonathan Heisler Photography is comprised of Professional 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

Proposing at The Edge Hudson Yards NYC

How to HIRe A PROPOSAL proposal PHOTOGRAPHER FOR THE EDGE

Planning this unique proposal location requires some coordination and planning. First, you have to purchase a ticket to guarantee your time slot is available (a must during the holidays). We’ll purchase our ticket for 15 minutes before you. This will guarantee we are in the spot and ready to go before you arrive to the top of The Edge. Once you’re up top, on The Edge, you’re allowed to stay there for an unlimited amount of time. There is no time limit!

FINDING THE BEST SPOT TO PROPOSE atop the Edge CAN BE CHALLENGING! Here is hoW we CHOOSE A SPOT.

Proposing at The Edge in the morning is one of the best choices for those planning a NYC Proposal. The early light provides beautiful, natural photos and the lack of crowds creates an intimate moment. Plus, it gives you the entire day to celebrate your new engagement. While many visitors flock to the point or the southern side overlooking the World Trade Center, the eastern side of The Edge is our favorite. From here, you’ll enjoy an iconic and unobstructed view of the Empire State Building—a perfect backdrop for your NYC proposal photos.

When is the best time of the day to propose at The Edge NYC?

We’ve photographed countless proposals at The Edge at Hudson Yards, one of New York City’s most iconic engagement locations. From private moments to public celebrations, we know how to capture the magic. In our experience, the best time to propose at The Edge is in the morning—when the soft light is perfect for photos and the crowds are minimal. While sunset can be stunning, it’s also the busiest time of day, making mornings the ideal choice for a more intimate proposal.

Why should i propose at the edge versus Empire State building or top of the rock? Well the Edge has:

Unobstructed Views – The Edge offers floor-to-ceiling glass walls, unlike the Empire State Building’s waist-high concrete barriers, ensuring your photos capture the full skyline without obstruction.

Iconic City Backdrop – From The Edge, you can see the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center behind you. Unlike being on the landmark itself, here you can actually feature these NYC icons in your engagement or proposal photos.

Spacious Observation Deck – With one of the largest outdoor decks in New York City, The Edge feels less crowded, giving couples more space and privacy for their special moment.

Some of our favorite proposal photos from The Edge NYC

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