Engagement Session

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Austin's Picture Perfect Central Park Fall Foliage Proposal

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Austin chose Ladies Pavilion “Cove” on the West Side of Central Park for his proposal because of these factors:

  • The location offers views of Manhattan’s skyscrapers.

  • It has relative privacy compared to more popular areas.

  • Fall foliage is strong in that area—leaves turn color, adding visual depth.

  • Afternoon light offers softer shadows and good direction for photos.

The Proposal Story

We scheduled during a workday afternoon in autumn to avoid heavy foot traffic. The trees were showing rich fall colors, creating a vibrant backdrop. As light softened in the afternoon, we used shaded spots under trees and near pavilion architecture to reduce harsh contrasts.

At the moment of the proposal, Austin knelt at a spot that included skyline in the background and foliage framing from above. Multiple angles were used: wide shots showing the full setting, medium shots to include foliage and structure, and close-ups for emotional detail. The location’s combination of fall color, architectural framing, and soft light contributed to strong images without needing elaborate setup.

Why Ladies Pavilion Cove Works Well in Fall

  • Fall foliage adds color contrast and texture to photos.

  • This spot balances nature and Cityscape; skyline is visible, but trees soften urban edges.

  • Afternoon light during fall tends to be less harsh; shadows more manageable.

  • The location is easier to access and less crowded during weekdays.

  • Structural elements (pavilion, stone, paths) provide framing options.

Tips for Planning a Fall Proposal at Ladies Pavilion Cove

  • Choose a weekday afternoon in autumn when foliage is near peak.

  • Scout your route ahead, see where trees frame skyline and where light might be harsh.

  • Use clothing with colors that complement fall foliage (earth tones, warm colors).

  • Plan for shots at different distances (wide, medium, close) to vary the feel.

  • Work with a photographer experienced in managing changing light and shade.

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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Upper East Side Fall Foliage Engagement Session

As an Upper East Side Engagement Session Photographer I am able to photograph so many different looks and feels all within a few city blocks. On todays fall foliage engagement session, Jayson and Stephanie started their session along Park Avenue and ended it in Central Park.

The Best Place for Engagement Session Photos

NYC engagement photos are a dream for couples across the world. These photos set the standard for so many. Whether you take them in Central Park, in DUMBO Brooklyn with the Brooklyn Bridge, or atop a spectacular skyscraper, you’re sure to make memories called photographs. That’s because these special locations are iconic worldwide. And when captured by the right photographer, there’s no place more epic than New York City.

With so many different looks and feels in such a short trip, it can be difficult to choose a spot for your NYC engagement photo session. You may even want to do pictures at multiple locations.

Jacob and Ashley's West Village Engagement Session

The most asked question: “Where should we take our engagement photos?”

My go to answer is pick a place with meaning and significance to you both. If you spent every Sunday getting to know one another in Central Park, then let’s photograph your NYC Engagement photos in Central Park. Or pick a place that matches your look and feel. For Jacob and Ashley, the West Village and the Meat Packing District checked all of the boxes.

NYC provides so many different looks and feels within a short distance. You can walk in those heels during your engagement session and conquer.

On today’s engagement session, we started off in the Meatpacking District, walked along the High Line, and then wound up in the West Village. We captured the cobblestone streets, great architecture, design, and some of New York City’s most iconic views.

Knowing your couple, allows you to know their style.

Having photographed their surprise proposal last Spring on Pier 17, I had gotten to know Jacob and Ashley’s style; simple and down to earth. We chose the Meatpacking District Manhattan for it’s timeless look, and then we coordinated on outfits. Ashely wanted something that would pop amongst the grays of the city and the grey of the day, and she totally rocked it. Jacob, wanted comfortable, but a little more fun. He also wanted to compliment his fiance. Success!

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Ben and Jenn's Brooklyn Bridge Park Sunset Proposal

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Why Brooklyn Bridge Park is the perfect place to propose NYC

Brooklyn Bridge Park offers magnificent views of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, the World Trade Center, and a glimpse of the Empire State Building. This iconic NYC destination is a top destination for tourists and locals alike for obvious reasons. So, why choose DUMBO’s Brooklyn Bridge Park for your proposal? Simply put, your photos will have NYC in them.

Photographing a DUMBO Brooklyn Bridge Park Proposal

DUMBO and the area around the Brooklyn Bridge Park facing West is a great option for a sunset proposal and photography session. The lighting in DUMBO provides a ton of spots and angles to photograph as the warm sun sets. This part of Brooklyn has so much character in the look and feel of the buildings, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the park that your photos will be guaranteed unique.

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!