proposal photographer nyc

Photographing a Thanksgiving Day Roosevelt Island Proposal

A Picture-Perfect Proposal on Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island, nestled between Manhattan and Queens, is a unique, quiet oasis in the middle of New York City’s East River. Its serene ambiance, panoramic views of the skyline, and stunning waterfront make it the perfect spot for a proposal — especially during the busy Holiday touristy months.

Cheng-Wei’s plan was to propose as they strolled the Cornell Tech campus, the place where they both met while completing their Masters degree. The specific spot we chose featured the 59th Street Bridge and the Cornell Tech buildings.

We ventured near the Four Freedoms Park, which is always a stunning spot with its dramatic views of Manhattan and its sweeping, minimalist design. The geometric lines and large stone sculptures provided an artistic contrast to the warmth of this newly engagement couple, making each photo feel so special.

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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The Best Engagement Proposal Photographer in NYC: Capturing a Sunset Moment on Roosevelt Island

If you're looking for the perfect spot for an engagement proposal in New York City, Roosevelt Island should be at the top of your list. Nestled between Manhattan and Queens, this peaceful oasis offers stunning views of the city skyline, the iconic Empire State Building, the architecturally beautiful 59th street bridge, and the UN. It’s no wonder why Joshuva chose this spot to surprise his partner with a breathtaking sunset proposal, with the Panorama Hotel and Bar providing the perfect disguise for going to Roosevelt Island.

As one of NYC’s premier marriage proposal photographers, it’s an honor to capture such beautiful moments that will last a lifetime. Let’s take a closer look at how we captured Joshuva's unforgettable proposal and why Roosevelt Island is the perfect place for an engagement to remember.

A Sunset Proposal to Remember

Joshuva’s proposal took place just as the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the East River. As the sun dipped behind the skyline, Joshuva dropped to one knee, and the moment finally happened after weeks of secretly planning.

Roosevelt Island’s scenic beauty and unique vantage points make it a top choice for couples looking for an intimate yet dramatic setting. Whether you’re envisioning a quiet, romantic moment or a grand proposal with a stunning view, this location offers both.

As your dedicated NYC marriage proposal photographer, I specialize in documenting these fleeting, emotional moments so you can relive them forever. From the nervous excitement before the big moment to the joyful celebration after the proposal, every emotion is captured with precision.

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

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A Guide to Roosevelt Island Proposal Photography

If you're planning to propose in New York City, you may immediately think of the iconic spots like Central Park, the Empire State Building, or the Brooklyn Bridge Park. While these locations are beautiful and well-known, they can also be crowded and lack the intimacy that such an important moment deserves. For those seeking a more secluded yet stunning setting, and an experience along the way, Roosevelt Island offers the perfect solution—a hidden gem that combines breathtaking views, a cool experience (the overhead tram getting there provides amazing views) and a relaxed atmosphere. Read below about why you should consider planning a secret proposal on Roosevelt Island, NYC below!

The journey of getting on Roosevelt Island

The Roosevelt Island Tramway: For an unforgettable proposal, take your partner on a ride. The Roosevelt Island Tramway, which offers spectacular aerial views of the city is unique and unlike anything else in the city.

why you should consider planning a secret proposal on Roosevelt Island, NYC

1. Unbeatable Views of Manhattan - Roosevelt Island sits just off the East River, nestled between the boroughs of Manhattan and Queens. From this vantage point, you’ll get panoramic views of the iconic Manhattan skyline; Empire State Building, World Trade Center, the UN.

2. Seclusion in the Heart of the City - While Manhattan and Brooklyn can often feel overwhelmingly busy, Roosevelt Island provides a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle. This relatively small island offers a peaceful and intimate environment, perfect for a private proposal.

3. Romantic Spots for Your Proposal - Roosevelt Island is full of picturesque locations that provide a romantic setting for your proposal. Consider these standout spots:

  • Four Freedoms Park: Located at the southern tip of the island, this park is a serene oasis with beautifully manicured gardens, paths, and monuments. The park’s open spaces and dramatic views of the Manhattan skyline make it an ideal spot for a proposal.

  • The Promenade: This long path stretches along the edge of Roosevelt Island, offering amazing views of the river and the surrounding skyline. It’s a quieter spot for a proposal, with benches and peaceful green spaces where you can stop and enjoy the view before popping the big question

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Jeremy's Surprise Engagement atop Outlook Hill on Governors Island

Photographing a surprise proposal on Governors Island is memorable experience Unlike many parts of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Long Island city where there are tourists everywhere, Governors Island is quiet. Why? Because a ferry is the only way to get to Governors Island and that keeps people away. The views on the island are well worth a quick ferry ride, especially if this is where you are going to propose.

Here are a few tips to make sure your secret NYC marriage proposal on Governors Island is captured perfectly by your professional photographer or friend:

  1. Plan ahead: Work with a professional proposal photographer to iron out of the the logistics of the proposal in advance. This includes deciding on the exact location, time of day, ferry times, and any special requests or details you would like captured.

  2. Be discreet: It's important to blend in. We are just another tourists admiring the sites of NYC!

  3. Capture the emotion: The moment is way more than just a photo of someone on their knee.

  4. Have fun: Engagements are a happy and exciting occasion, so don't forget to enjoy the moment

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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Photographing a Mid-Summer Proposal on Roosevelt Island NYC

Roosevelt Island is so close to Manhattan and yet it couldn’t be any more different than the hustling-bustling city. When you take the cable car ride (or subway) to Roosevelt Island you enter another world. The island offers amazing views of Manhattan and Long Island City every which way you look. It also offers a view with few tourists, vendors, and trash unlike so many other parts of 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

book now!