Proposing at Sunset in Front of the Brooklyn Bridge - DUMBO NYC

There’s something unforgettable about the moment the sun starts dipping low, casting warm golden light across the East River. As a NYC proposal photographer, I get to witness those magical moments—just like this one, when Rick proposed under soft summer hues in DUMBO, right in front of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Why DUMBO & the Brooklyn Bridge are a Perfect Proposal Setting

• Stunning Iconic Views: The Brooklyn Bridge is unmistakable—its soaring towers and cables make for dramatic backdrops. Combine that with the Manhattan skyline across the water, and you get epic photos.

• Golden Hour Light: Sunset in DUMBO brings that flattering, warm glow—perfect for romantic portraits. The light softens before it fades, giving everything a dreamy, cinematic quality.

• Water & Urban Contrast: The combination of river reflections, cobblestone walkways, and exposed architecture adds texture and depth. It’s an urban setting, but with just enough nature and open sky to balance things beautifully.

• Accessibility + Visual Drama: DUMBO is easy to reach from Brooklyn or Manhattan. Yet once you’re there, the location feels special—the bridges, the promenade, the skyline—it all works together for a memorable surprise.

Capturing the Moment

On that summer evening, I arrived early to scope out angles and anticipate where the light would fall. As the sun dropped, it softened, turning the water gold and casting long, romantic shadows. I positioned myself where the Brooklyn Bridge would frame Rick as he knelt—so when she looked up, everything would feel cinematic.

After she said yes, we took advantage of the sunset glow, wandering along the water, letting the light and architecture do the storytelling. The result: a mix of emotional candids, wide cityscapes, and intimate portraits that are meaningful and dramatic.

If you’re thinking about proposing in NYC—especially in a spot like DUMBO with views of the Brooklyn Bridge—let’s talk about making it unforgettable. A proposal should feel like you, beautiful, carefully planned, and perfectly captured.

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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Jane's Carousel DUMBO Proposal

Sometimes there’s just no time for tradition. For Taylor, that was the case when proposing to Jordan at the Brooklyn Bridge Park in front of Jane’s Carousel. Jordan instantly knew he was going to propose as he went for his sweater pocket. As he pulled out the ring she ecstatically screamed “YES”

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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Pascal's Spring Proposal at Gantry Plaza LIC

Pascal planned a surprise proposal at Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City during spring. He and his partner were visiting from Germany, and this was their first time coming to Gantry. To make sure everything went smoothly, Pascal and I prepared in advance — I sent him a map showing the route, marked where his partner would walk, and showed examples of where their proposal moment could happen.

The Proposal Story

We met at Gantry Plaza before sunset. With daylight still good and spring foliage starting to show, the walk along the waterfront was calm. Pascal waited for the right spot — a pier with a view of the skyline and water. When his partner arrived, he proposed. Photographs included wide shots showing the skyline and river, medium frames to focus on the couple, and close-ups to capture emotion. Because we planned the location ahead, we had time to choose angles and prepare without rushing.

Why Gantry Plaza State Park Is a Good Proposal Location

• Offers clear views of major NYC skyline landmarks (Empire State Building, United Nations, etc.)

• Waterfront setting allows for reflections in the water, adding depth to images

• Multiple vantage points (piers, walkways, gantries) give flexibility to move depending on light and composition

• More privacy compared to many Manhattan spots, especially in spring evenings before crowds peak

Tips for Planning a Gantry Spring Proposal

• Plan ahead: look at maps, pick your route, decide where the proposal moment will be, especially if your partner hasn’t seen the location before

• Time the proposal close to golden hour (late afternoon / just before sunset) so light is soft and flattering

• Arrive early to check light, explore possible spots, and avoid surprise obstacles

• Dress in season-appropriate attire and colors that work well with skyline + waterfront backdrops

• Use a photographer experienced with waterfront light and reflections

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Anthony's DUMBO Work Week Proposal

Photographing a midweek and A middle of the day proposal in New York City has its benefits.

Proposing in the middle of the workweek in NYC has so many benefits. To start, the crowds are almost absent compared to the weekends. Proposing in the middle of the day has some challenges primarily if you’re looking to have your moment photographed by a professional photographer. The lighting isn’t always the best, but we can work with you to select an ideal location.

Working with a proposal photographer in brooklyn

DUMBO and the area around the Brooklyn Bridge Park facing West is a great option for a midday proposal and photography session. To start, the view of Manhattan and the New York City skyline provides real context to where you are. Next the lighting in DUMBO provides a ton n of spots to work around the strong high sun. Lastly, there’s so much character in the look and feel of this part of NYC that your photos will be guaranteed unique.

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

Sam's Private NYC Proposal

Where to propose in NYC with a rooftop view of Manhattan?

If you’re looking to propose without a crowd and have an unobstructed view, a rooftop proposal is the way to go. Your options include reserving The Edge in Hudson Yards or The Empire State Building, all of which we have captured, or you could talk to one of the many hotels throughout the city. Just ask us where is the best rooftop to propose!

The Proposal Plan: Sam and Eli were going to brunch on the rooftop of the William Vale Hotel in Williamsburg Brooklyn.

Venue: The William Vale Hotel - Williamsburg Brooklyn

How we plan and photograph surprise proposals.

We aways make sure to arrive 30 minutes early to ensure we are there before you! We also require a point of contact from the venue or rooftop be present. Most importantly you need to supply us with the point of contact’s information in advance.

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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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