David's Pier 26 Summertime Proposal

A Romantic Summertime Surprise Proposal on Pier 26 in Lower Manhattan

As a NYC surprise proposal photographer, I witnessed countless unforgettable moments—each one really is unique. Set along Manhattan’s scenic West Side, Pier 26’s location offers the perfect blend of waterfront views, city skyline, no tourists, and a good story of why and when.

Why David Chose Pier 26 for His Proposal

Pier 26, part of Hudson River Park in Lower Manhattan’s Tribeca neighborhood, is a hidden gem for couples seeking a peaceful yet iconic New York City backdrop. With its sweeping views of the Hudson River, the One World Trade Center towering nearby, and the Statue of Liberty visible in the distance, it’s no wonder David selected this location for such an important moment.

In the summer, Pier 26 comes alive with lush greenery, cool river breezes, and a warm, golden glow as the sun sets over the water. It’s a perfect blend of urban energy and natural tranquility—ideal for a surprise proposal in NYC. Pier 26 at Hudson River Park also has the City Vineyard right there, easily giving you a reasonable excuse to go for “brunch”, “lunch”, “dinner”, or “drinks” at a set time.

Why Pier 26 is Ideal for a Summer NYC Proposal

• Scenic Waterfront Views: Pier 26 offers panoramic views of Lower Manhattan, Jersey City, and the Hudson River, all bathed in golden hour light during summer evenings.

• Less Crowded Than Other NYC Spots: Compared to more well-known spots like Brooklyn Bridge Park or Central Park, Pier 26 offers more privacy—ideal for surprise proposals.

• Unique Features: The eco-friendly Tide Deck, rooftop deck, and native gardens add character and versatility to any proposal photo session.

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

Chris’s Secret Gantry Plaza Proposal, Long Island City

GANTRY PLAZA, LONG ISLAND CITY IS THE PERFECT PLACE in nyc TO CAPTURE YOUR SURPRISE PROPOSAL with a view and privacy!

There’s something about a surprise proposal at Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City—it’s the blend of dramatic NYC skyline views and peaceful moments that aren’t obvious to most. Chris chose this spot for his secret proposal, and with the Empire State Building, 59th Street Bridge, and the United Nations in view, the setting couldn’t have been more iconic. But what made the moment even more special was how intimate it felt, despite being in one of the city’s most visible places.

The Proposal Story:
Chris planned everything carefully so that the proposal would feel genuine, heartfelt, and unforced. They arrived at Gantry shortly before sunset, with soft golden light stretching across the water and casting a glow on the cityscape behind them. As they walked along the waterfront promenade, Chris led his partner toward one of the piers overlooking the river. Surrounded by warm light and calm reflections, Chris knelt and asked the question—just the two of them (though with the city as their witness). The reaction, the surprise, the laughter, and tears—those emotional moments are what make photos like these timeless.

Why Gantry Plaza State Park is a Great Choice:

• Skyline & Water Views: You get clear lines of the Midtown skyline—Empire State Building, bridges, waterfront—so many iconic NYC elements in one frame.

• Golden Light Potential: Late afternoon into sunset gives dramatic soft lighting that flatters skin, buildings, and water.

• Relatively Private Vibes: Even in popular times, LIC tends to be less crowded than Manhattan hotspots. Parts of the park feel secluded, giving couples room for genuine moments.

• Great Variety: Gantry offers piers, benches, trees, and open sky—so you can switch spots easily for different looks (wide, medium, close-up) without moving far.

Tips for Planning a Secret Proposal Here:

• Choose a time near golden hour (sunset) to get that beautiful warm light and avoid harsh midday shadows.

• Visit midweek or just before the busiest evening hours to minimize crowd interference.

• Consider outfit choices that work well with the colors and contrast of the skyline + sunset—solid colors, layers, etc.

• Scout a few vantage points ahead of time (piers, benches, waterfront paths) so you can adjust if something doesn’t feel right.

• Bring a photographer who knows the area, understands light changes by the water, and can help with discreet positioning so the surprise stays intact.

Chris’s secret proposal at Gantry Plaza is a reminder of how much power the right place + time + feeling has. Even in a city full of iconic spots, it’s the moments of genuine surprise, connection, and love that resonate forever.

If you’re thinking about planning your own secret proposal in NYC—LIC, Gantry, Central Park, or anywhere meaningful—Jonathan Heisler Photography is here to help you create and capture an unforgettable memory.

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

TOP OF THE ROCK NYC NIGHT TIME PROPOSAL | Dan and Lindsay

Dan proposed to Lindsay Friday night atop Rockefeller Center at Top of the Rock while they were in NYC for the weekend. After getting up to the 68th floor, he got down on one knee and popped the question with the breathtaking view of the city as a backdrop! Proposing at night added a whole new dimension and depth to their special moment.

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

Brendon's Fulton Street Proposal

Few places in Lower Manhattan capture both character and romance quite like the South Street Seaport. Its historic cobblestone streets, glowing lights, and water views create a cinematic backdrop for moments that feel timeless. On a crisp evening, Brendon chose Fulton Street at the Seaport for his surprise proposal — blending the charm of old NY with the thrill of “yes.”

Why Fulton Street / South Street Seaport Is Such a Strong Choice

• Historic Character & Texture — The Seaport area mixes old warehouses, cobblestones, and maritime architecture. It’s authentic New York, not the polished tourist shot.

• Evening / Night Lighting at its Best — When the sun goes down, strings of lights, street lamps, and reflections off the water all come alive. It makes for romantic, dramatic photos.

• Less Crowded Than Major Tourist Spots — Even though Seaport is known, choosing a slightly off-peak time (late evening) kept things intimate.

• Water & Skyline Views — With views toward the East River, and light bouncing off the piers, the setting often feels cinematic — the sound of the water, the ambient glow, the bridge or skyline in the distance.

Capturing Brendon’s Proposal: Moments & Mood

Brendon arrived with everything mapped out. I scouted the best angles along Fulton Street ahead of time: where the light from street lamps and shop windows would frame him, where reflections from wet pavement (or water) might enhance the scene.

As dusk turned into night, Brendon led his partner across cobblestones. City lights flickered above, and the seabreeze played softly off the river. Then, he stopped, knelt down, and asked. The moment felt electric — intimate despite being in the city, moody with light and shadow, emotional.

After she said yes, we stretched out the session: portraits under street lamps, candid laughter, walking hand in hand past historic facades. The contrast of dark sky, warm light, texture, and emotion created images that feel both cinematic and deeply personal.

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

Slade's NYC Proposal at The Edge

The Proposal Plan: As far as Amanda knew, the plan was to checkout the amazing views of NYC atop Hudson Yards The Edge. Slade chose to propose at The Edge for it’s unobstructed views of Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn and any which way you could see.

HOW TO HAVE A PROFESSIONAL PROPOSAL PHOTOGRAPHER PHOTOGRAPH YOUR SECRET MARRIAGE PROPOSAL AT THE EDGE HUDSON YARDS

To propose at The Edge and have your moment photographed by a professional proposal photographer book your tickets, and have your NYC proposal photographer book his/her tickets before you. That way they are up top before you. I have several recommendations on where up top you should propose and where, but I’ll tell you about that later! Using my experience as a professional NYC Proposal Photographer really pays off when it comes to photographing proposals at The Edge, or anywhere in 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

Capturing Justin's Pier 17 Secret Marriage Proposal

Rainy Day Surprise Proposal at Pier 17 with Views of the Brooklyn Bridge

Even when rain clouds roll in, the magic of a marriage proposal doesn’t fade—it just becomes more memorable. As a NYC proposal photographer, I’ve learned that sometimes weather adds emotion, atmosphere, and drama—in the best ways possible. Like when Justin braved a grey morning and chose to pop the question at Pier 17, watching the Brooklyn Bridge stand strong in the misty background.

Why Pier 17 Is a Great Proposal Location (Even in the Rain)

• Unobstructed, Dramatic Views of the Brooklyn Bridge – One of Pier 17’s biggest advantages is its open sightlines to the Brooklyn Bridge. The bridge’s silhouette becomes even more striking against overcast skies, creating a mood that’s cinematic and unforgettable.

• Public but Not Overrun – Pier 17’s rooftop is open to the public, yet it tends to avoid the heavy foot traffic of classic tourist-heavy spots. That means more freedom to move, find the best angles, and less worry about interruptions.

• Urban Setting + Weather Drama – Rain can soften harsh city edges (literally!), reflect lights, pour texture into photos. When paired with city architecture + iconic landmarks, you get a beautifully moody palette that feels unique.

• Flexibility & Romance in Imperfect Moments – Choosing to hold the proposal despite gloomy weather shows authenticity, risk, boldness… all great ingredients for emotional storytelling. Plus, sometimes guests or passersby are fewer, which can give the moment more intimacy.

Capturing Justin + Erin’s Proposal: Weather, Tension, Joy

I monitored the weather all week leading up to the proposal date. It wasn’t improving—in fact, forecasts predicted increasing clouds and possible rain. Justin considered alternate locations, but something about Pier 17 felt right: the view, the plan, the idea of choosing what matters over perfect conditions.

On the morning itself, clouds hung low, a fine drizzle hovered in the air, and visibility softened. We embraced it. We used reflections, ambient light, and the muted tones of the sky to frame the proposal. When Justin got down on one knee, the Brooklyn Bridge faded into mist as a quiet, powerful witness.

Even after she said yes, the rain didn’t stop the celebration—it became part of it. We walked the rooftop; we captured moments of joy under umbrellas; we let the surroundings tell the story. The result: photos that feel moody, real, and emotionally rich.

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