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. 

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Capturing Devin's Pier 25 Proposal along the Hudson River

There are so many unique places to propose in NYC that share where you are, especially in Lower Manhattan and along the waterfront of Hudson River Park. There’s so much cool architecture in this part of the city and endless amazing views (Statue of Liberty, World Trade Center, the Empire State Building looking uptown)!

Devin chose Pier 25 in Hudson River Park for his proposal for these exact reasons, and it was the perfect location for his NYC proposal and the many photos we captured together.

As they walked down Pier 25, hand in hand, Beth had no idea what was in store for her. The rain had stopped, leaving the air warm. They enjoyed the view of the Hudson River and the towering World Trade Center. As they stopped at the end of the pier to take a selfie, that's when it happened.

Beth turned around to find her boyfriend down on one knee, holding out a diamond ring. She gasped in disbelief as he asked her to marry him, tears streaming down her face.

I captured the moment from a slight distance, standing behind them and capturing their emotions as they shared this incredible moment together. I then approached them, congratulating them on their engagement and introducing myself as their photographer. They were thrilled to have photos of their special moment, with the World Trade Center rising majestically in the background and surrounded by the New York City skyline.

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

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Secret Sunset Proposal at Pier 25 — Hudson River Park, NYC

Finding the best spot to propose in New York City

When it comes to proposing in New York City, finding a location that offers both intimacy and breathtaking views can be a challenge. Pier 25 in Hudson River Park provides the perfect blend of both. With unobstructed views of the World Trade Center, Statue of Liberty, and the Jersey City skyline, it's an ideal spot for a surprise proposal.

Why Pier 25 is a Hidden Gem for Proposals

• Scenic Waterfront Views: The pier offers panoramic views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline, making it a picturesque setting for a proposal.

• Less Crowded: Compared to other popular spots like Central Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 25 tends to be less crowded, providing a more intimate atmosphere.

• Golden Hour Lighting: The pier's orientation allows for stunning sunset views, casting a warm golden glow that's perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Capturing the Moment

On a beautiful summer evening, I had the privilege of capturing a surprise proposal at Pier 25. The couple arrived under the guise of a casual evening stroll, unaware of the special moment that awaited. As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the river, the proposal took place. The backdrop of the Manhattan skyline and the soft evening light created a romantic and cinematic atmosphere.

After the proposal, we took advantage of the golden hour to capture candid moments and portraits, ensuring every emotion was beautifully documented.

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

Akram's Lower Manhattan Marriage Proposal

Congrats Akram and Alex! Akram chose 10am Saturday morning to propose to his girlfriend Alex. We spoke about several different locations and agreed upon a location with a view of the New York City skyline. Our options were Long Island City’s Gantry Plaza, Hoboken, and Pier 25 on Manhattan’s West Side. We chose Pier 25 simply because of its convenience and for its multiple views, World Trade Center looking downtown and the Empire State Building looking uptown.

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