Golden Hour Pier 25 Proposal

Pier 25 is one of those places that truly shines at golden hour. The light hits the Hudson River and the West side of Manhattan, the skyline starts to glow, and you can see the sun setting behind New Jersey while the towers of Lower Manhattan light up for the evening. For Will’s Proposal, everything came together perfectly. The couple arrived just as the sky turned into warm gold. With the One World Trade Center standing tall in the background and the water reflecting the last light of the day, Will got down on one knee.

The moment was quiet and simple—just the two of them with the sound of the river and people passing by.

After the proposal, we captured portraits along the waterfront, using the skyline and sunset as a backdrop. The timing couldn’t have been better and nor could have the weather for an early October night here in New York City.

Why Pier 25 Is Perfect for a NYC Proposal

Pier 25 offers one of the best unobstructed skyline views in Lower Manhattan. It’s a quieter alternative to nearby Battery Park or the High Line, with open waterfront space and incredible light during golden hour.

Couples can enjoy both the Manhattan skyline and the sunset behind New Jersey—a rare combination that gives photos depth and warmth. Whether it’s an intimate proposal or a planned celebration with friends afterward, Pier 25 delivers that timeless New York atmosphere without the crowds.

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

A Unforgettable Governors Island Proposal at Collective Retreats | NYC Proposal Photographer

As a NYC proposal photographer, I’ve captured hundreds (a few thousand) proposals across every corner of the city—but few spots rival the magic of Governors Island at sunset, where there are no crowds and no unobstructed views. For Dhruv’s surprise proposal at Collective Retreats, we planned every detail carefully to make sure this early October moment unfolded flawlessly against one of the most scenic backdrops in New York City.

Planning the Perfect Governors Island Proposal

Governors Island is unlike any other proposal location in NYC—it’s peaceful, scenic, and feels like a world away from the city, even though it’s just an 8-minute ferry ride from Lower Manhattan. Dhruv and I coordinated the timing down to the minute. They’d spend the day on the island at the retreat, and I would arrive to their private cabin just before they’d come back for dinner.

We chose Collective Retreats, the island’s beautiful glamping-style resort, for its private, relaxed setting and incredible views of the Statue of Liberty. After a quick walkthrough earlier in the week, we decided to capture the big moment at Outlook Hill, one of the island’s highest points with a 360° panoramic view of Manhattan, New Jersey, New York Harbor, and Lady Liberty herself.

Why Governors Island is a Hidden Gem for Proposals

For couples looking for something unique yet quintessentially New York, Governors Island offers it all—privacy, skyline views, and a touch of adventure. The ferry ride adds to the excitement, the lighting is incredible near golden hour, and there are endless opportunities for stunning photographs.

Whether you’re planning a sunset proposal at Collective Retreats, a romantic picnic by the harbor, or a panoramic moment atop Outlook Hill, this destination feels like your own private slice of New York City.

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

A Beautiful September Morning Proposal on the Brooklyn Bridge

There’s nothing quite like experiencing the Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise. On this September morning, the sky glowed a soft purple-blue as the sun began to rise over the East River. The Manhattan skyline sparkled in the distance, creating an unforgettable backdrop for a romantic surprise proposal. As a NYC proposal photographer, I know that early mornings on the bridge are some of the most magical moments the city has to offer.

Why the Brooklyn Bridge is Perfect for a Morning Proposal

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks, and early morning is the best time to experience it in full serenity. The crowds haven’t yet arrived, the light is soft and flattering, and the skyline views are unmatched. September mornings bring a crispness to the air and a dreamy glow that makes the moment feel both cinematic and intimate.

Couples love proposing on the Brooklyn Bridge because:

• Unobstructed Views: From the East River to the Manhattan skyline, the bridge offers 360-degree photo opportunities.

• Movie like romance : Early morning colors—like the purple-blue sky we witnessed—add a movie like element to the experience and the photos, which you’ll have forever.

• Iconic Architecture: The stone arches and suspension cables frame each shot perfectly, making it instantly recognizable and timeless.

Capturing the Moment

For this proposal, I arrived early to find the best angles along the wooden pedestrian path. As the couple reached the center of the bridge, the sky shifted from purple-blue to soft golden hues. Against the backdrop of Lower Manhattan’s skyline, he got down on one knee. The quiet stillness of the bridge at that hour made the moment feel private, even in one of the busiest cities in the world.

After the “yes,” we took additional portraits along the bridge, using both the sweeping skyline views and the intricate architectural details to tell their story.

Planning Your Brooklyn Bridge Proposal

If you’re considering a Brooklyn Bridge proposal, here are a few quick tips:

• Go early. Sunrise offers the most privacy and the best light.

• Dress smart. It can be breezy in the morning, so layers help.

• Plan portraits. After the proposal, stroll toward Brooklyn Bridge Park for more iconic photos by the waterfront.

Brooklyn Bridge proposals are bold, beautiful, and unforgettable. With the right timing and a professional NYC proposal photographer to capture it all, you’ll have timeless images of one of the city’s most iconic locations.

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

Capturing Dylan's Sunset Brooklyn Bridge Park Proposal

A Hidden Gem for Proposals in Brooklyn Bridge Park: Behind Celestine

As a professional NYC Proposal Photographer who has captured over thousands of proposals since 2012, I’ve learned one important truth—New York’s most iconic spots only get busier with time. The Brooklyn Bridge, DUMBO, and Jane’s Carousel are always filled with tourists and other photoshoots,, making it difficult to plan a private and intimate moment. But what many don’t know is that tucked just behind the restaurant Celestine on Jay Street lies one of Brooklyn Bridge Park’s best-kept secrets for proposals.

For Dylan’s sunset proposal, this hidden spot offered everything we needed: breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan skyline, the World Trade Center, and of course, the sunset over the city. It gave us the perfect balance of iconic NYC scenery while still maintaining a level of privacy that can be hard to find in such a popular area.

For couples planning a proposal in Brooklyn Bridge Park, I always recommend considering this quiet corner behind Celestine. It’s close enough to the heart of DUMBO for post-proposal celebrations, but just far enough to avoid the crowds. With thoughtful planning, you can capture the magic of NYC while keeping the moment truly yours.

If you’re dreaming of a Brooklyn Bridge proposal that blends romance, iconic views, and privacy, this hidden location might be the perfect fit.

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

A September Surprise Proposal in Central Park with Views of the San Remo

Please note - We only photograph here Monday - Friday in the late afternoon due to lighting and crowds.. The weekend is too busy.

There’s something magical about Central Park in September—the weather is crisp, the trees are still green with hints of seasonal change, and golden hour seems to last just a little bit longer. As a NYC proposal photographer, I’ve captured countless unforgettable moments here, but a recent surprise proposal along the lake with the San Remo in view was particularly timeless.

Why Central Park in September is Perfect for a Proposal

Central Park offers some of the most iconic proposal backdrops in New York City, and early fall adds a layer of charm. The warm late-summer sunlight, the cooling breeze, and the greenery surrounding the lake make it one of the most romantic and photogenic times of year to propose.

The San Remo’s twin towers rising above the trees bring architectural elegance into the frame, while rowboats gliding across the lake add movement and story. For couples looking for both intimacy and iconic NYC scenery, this location checks every box.

Capturing the Moment

For this proposal, the couple paused at a quiet spot overlooking the lake with the San Remo in the distance. As he got down on one knee, golden hour light filtered through the trees and reflected off the water, creating a natural, cinematic glow.

After the “yes,” we walked toward the Bow Bridge for additional portraits. This iconic cast-iron bridge, surrounded by trees still lush and green in September, provided a perfect contrast to the lake views. From candid laughter to romantic embraces on the bridge, every image carried both intimacy and elegance.

Why Central Park’s Bow Bridge & Lake Views Make an Ideal Proposal Spot

• Iconic NYC Backdrop: The San Remo and Bow Bridge are some of the most recognizable and romantic sights in the park.

• Versatility: From lakeside serenity to sweeping bridge views, you can capture multiple looks within minutes.

• Golden Hour Magic: September evenings offer some of the softest, warmest light of the year, enhancing both candid and posed images.

Planning Your Central Park Proposal

Thinking about proposing in Central Park? Here are a few tips:

• Aim for late afternoon into golden hour for the best combination of privacy and light.

• Consider adding a rowboat ride before or after the proposal to make the moment even more memorable.

• Hire a professional NYC proposal photographer who knows how to discreetly capture the surprise while also planning for those iconic portraits afterward.

Whether it’s by the lake with the San Remo glowing in the background or on the Bow Bridge surrounded by greenery, Central Park in September is a perfect canvas for your once-in-a-lifetime moment.

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

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

Joel's Romantic DUMBO Proposal | Brooklyn Bridge Park Proposal Photography

Choosing the Perfect Proposal Spot in DUMBO

We’ve captured thousands of surprise proposals across New York City since 2012, and each one is genuinely unique and memorable. Recently, our team photographed Joel’s proposal in DUMBO, a location that perfectly blends Brooklyn’s charm with sweeping views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline. When most couples think of a DUMBO proposal, they picture the crowded areas near Jane’s Carousel (examples here) or along the waterfront South of the bridge near the Rivers Cafe. However, Joel wanted something more private and intimate, while still incorporating the Brooklyn asthetic. Together, we chose a tucked-away location in Brooklyn Bridge Park, just behind Celestine, the popular restaurant on Jay Street.

The Perfect Cover Story

We helped Joel plan every detail of his surprise NYC proposal with care. To keep the proposal a surprise, he told his partner they had a dinner reservation at Celestine. This clever excuse made it natural to walk toward this part of the park at just the right time. It give him a reason to go to X spot at Y time.

Why DUMBO is One of NYC’s Best Proposal Locations

DUMBO is one of New York City’s top proposal and engagement spots because it offers:

• Iconic views of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges

• A mix of cobblestone streets, parks, and waterfront backdrops

• Easy access to world-class restaurants like Celestine for a celebration afterward

By choosing a less crowded area, Joel created a proposal that felt special, intimate, and unforgettable.

Planning Your Brooklyn Bridge Proposal

As New York City’s best proposal photographer, Jonathan Heisler Photography helps couples plan and capture their perfect moment. From scouting the right location to ensuring every detail is discreetly documented, we’re here to make your engagement unforgettable.

Thinking about proposing in New York City? Let’s talk about creating the perfect moment—and capturing it forever.

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