Proposal photographer

Carl Schurz Park Summer Proposal

Carl Schurz Park is one of New York City’s most peaceful and scenic waterfront spots. With views of the East River, colorful summer flowers, and tree-lined paths, it offers a quiet and natural setting that feels miles away from the city’s busy streets.

For this proposal, the day couldn’t have been more perfect. The sun was out, and the trees were in full bloom. Adam chose a spot overlooking the water—simple, open, and surrounded by greenery. It was there that he got down on one knee.

The moment was calm and personal. After she said yes, the two took a walk through the garden areas and tree-covered paths, stopping for portraits among the blooming flowers.

Every photo from the day carried that warm summer color palette—bright greens, soft pinks, and the clear blue of the water in the distance. Carl Schurz Park’s mix of light, nature, and space made it an ideal setting for this kind of intimate moment.

Why Carl Schurz Park Is a Great Spot for Proposals

Carl Schurz Park offers a quieter, more relaxed alternative to some of Manhattan’s busier parks. Located along the East River, it features beautiful gardens, open lawns, and shaded walkways that make it an ideal spot for proposal photos.

During the summer, the flowers are in full bloom, and the views of the river add a peaceful, natural backdrop that photographs beautifully. For couples seeking a serene, scenic spot that retains a distinctly New York feel, Carl Schurz Park is a hidden gem.

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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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.

BOOK NOW!

An Evening Proposal at Gapstow Bridge - Central Park, NYC

When describing our style of photography I often use the words “timeless”, “photojournalism”, and “classic”. As secret marriage proposal photographers, we understand your proposal is not a photoshoot or a full on engagement session. We are simply capturing your proposal as it happens and the moments that follow. What’s unique about photographing a proposal is how real the emotion is and how wide of a spectrum the emotions are. Having photographed well over 2,500 NYC Proposals we’ve seen tears of joy, laughter, and excitement with every moment.

Gapstow Bridge in Central Park has it’s special times of the day. For tonight’s NYC proposal, this location in Central Park shined bright as the sun set. The plaza hotel and the Gapstow Bridge served as the perfect backdrops.

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

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Nick's Surprise Proposal at Central Park's Gapstow Bridge

There’s something special about stealing a moment when the world around you is bustling—yet time slows down for just two people. That’s exactly how Nick’s surprise proposal at Gapstow Bridge in Central Park unfolded: a Friday midday, soft light filtering through the leaves, and an iconic New York City backdrop without the usual crowds.

Why Gapstow Bridge is Such an Exceptional Proposal Spot

  • Iconic Ambience & Views: Gapstow Bridge rests at the southern edge of Central Park, with sweeping views of the pond, the trees, and the Plaza Hotel just beyond. It’s a quintessential NYC scene: nature and architecture in perfect harmony.

  • Light & Timing Matter: Though Gapstow is popular, there are windows—like weekday midday moments—where it feels more intimate. The sun at midday casts a clean, soft glow that highlights faces beautifully without harsh shadows.

  • Quiet Even Amidst the City: Being in Central Park, yet right near one of its quieter edges, provides privacy and emotional focus. For Nick, proposing during a less crowded time meant the moment felt deeply personal.

Capturing the Moment: Details & Emotion

Arriving in advance allowed me to pick spots on the Gapstow Bridge where light plays beautifully across the water and stone. Nick led his partner across, under the arch of the bridge, with the city’s skyline peeking through the trees in the background.

As she turned, there he was—on one knee—under that natural frame of city and nature mixed. The moment was silent for a beat: her surprised joy, his steady smile, the sunlight dancing off the pond. After she said yes, we explored nearby pathways, soaking in candid laughter, soft embraces, and portraits bathed in the calm light of that midday hour.

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

BOOK NOW!

Golden Hour Spring Proposal at Bow Bridge, Central Park

As a NYC proposal photographer, I never tire of the magic that Central Park brings in spring. On April 18th, the soft golden hour light turned Bow Bridge into a fairytale setting, with the San Remo towers elegantly framing the scene. Watching a surprise proposal unfold here is always special — the combination of natural beauty, iconic architecture, and intimate moments creates images that feel timeless.

Why Bow Bridge is Ideal for a Spring Proposal

Bow Bridge is one of Central Park’s most romantic spots. Its sweeping curves, delicate ironwork, and serene lake make it perfect for a cinematic moment. In spring, the trees surrounding the bridge are just coming alive, offering soft pops of green and the occasional blush of cherry blossoms. The San Remo rises gracefully behind, giving every shot a distinct New York City signature.

This location is perfect for couples who want:

  • This location is perfect for couples who want:

    • Romantic and intimate settings — the bridge feels secluded even on busier days.

    • Iconic NYC backdrops — the skyline and San Remo make your proposal unmistakably New York.

    • Golden hour perfection — soft, warm light enhances emotion and captures natural beauty.

Capturing the Moment

For this session, I arrived early to choose the best vantage points and ensure the golden light hit just right. As the couple approached the bridge, I captured the anticipation, the subtle glances, and the nervous excitement before the big moment. When the proposal happened, the sun was low, casting a warm glow across the scene, illuminating the joy and surprise in every expression. Afterward, we took a short stroll along the nearby paths to capture candid portraits with the water, trees, and skyline blending naturally into the background.

Tips for Planning Your Bow Bridge Proposal

  • Schedule around golden hour — late afternoon in spring offers the most flattering light and minimal crowds.

  • Scout locations ahead of time — knowing the bridge’s angles ensures unobstructed, scenic shots.

  • Consider nearby paths for variety — Bow Bridge connects beautifully to other romantic spots in the park.

Choosing a professional NYC proposal photographer guarantees that every smile, glance, and tear is preserved with artistry and discretion. Golden hour proposals in Central Park are unforgettable, and having the moment beautifully documented allows couples to relive 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

book now!