Proposal

Jane's Carousel DUMBO Proposal at Sunset

Omar chose a very special place for his surprise proposal. He worked with Celestine DUMBO to use their back patio on the one night of the week they are closed for his secret Brooklyn Bridge proposal. This private space allowed Omar to decorate and be out of site. The cover of the restaurant also gave him a reason to get dressed up nicely, a place to go, and a reason to be there at a set time without raising suspicion.

Why This Location Works Well

  • The combination of Jane’s Carousel, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and the Brooklyn Bridge in view offers iconic NYC landmarks in the background, which makes photos instantly recognizable.

  • Using a private patio (Celestine DUMBO) that’s closed to the public gave Omar control over privacy and décor, reducing surprises and crowd interference.

  • Sunset light adds warmth and softer shadows, improving skin tones and giving a dramatic glow to skyline elements.

  • The juxtaposition of architectural elements (bridge, buildings), the carousel, water views, and twinkling city lights brings visual variety to the photos.

Tips for Planning a Proposal Here

  • Pick a restaurant or venue with private or semi-private space if possible; it offers better control.

  • Time the proposal around sunset for warm light and softer contrast.

  • Scout angles in advance—carousel, bridge, skyline—and plan where both wide shots and close-ups will work best.

  • Decorate minimally but meaningfully so the environment enhances the moment without overwhelming it.

  • Coordinate with your photographer ahead of time so they know when and where to position for both natural and city lights.

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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An Afternoon Proposal in Brooklyn Bridge Park

Deciding where to propose in New York City - Think about this…

I always recommend choosing a place with meaning. Perhaps it’s your favorite spot in a park, that place you went on your first date, or where you made one of your best memories. For Justin, the hilltop overlooking Lower Manhattan and the Manhattan Bridge was that spot.

Proposing in Brooklyn Bridge Park at Sunset is the best place to propose in Brooklyn

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.

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Late September Evening DUMBO Proposal

DUMBO and the area around Brooklyn Bridge Park, facing west, is a great choice for a sunset proposal. Brooklyn Bridge Park is not only well-maintained and not terribly busy, but iconic for its views of lower Manhattan, the World Trade Center, and, of course, the Brooklyn Bridge. The lighting in Brooklyn in the late afternoon provides a ton of locations and angles to photograph as the warm sun sets. This part of Brooklyn has so much character in its look and feel of the buildings, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the park that your photos will be guaranteed to be unique.

Why This Location Works Well

  • The view includes major NYC landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, the World Trade Center, and the lower Manhattan skyline, which make images feel instantly recognizable.

  • Brooklyn Bridge Park facing west gets good late afternoon/sunset light, which produces warm tones and softer shadows.

  • The park is maintained and clean; features like walkways, piers, and architectural elements add variety in backgrounds.

  • Because it’s in DUMBO, there is a combination of urban texture (brick, steel, industrial architecture) and natural elements (water, sky) that contribute to visual interest.

  • It tends to be less crowded in late September evenings compared to peak summer, helping with privacy and flexibility.

Tips for Planning a DUMBO Sunset Proposal

  • Time your proposal so you arrive at or slightly before sunset—this gives you warm light and a window for both wide and close-up shots.

  • Scout the area in advance: identify piers, viewpoints, and walkways that frame the skyline well.

  • Dress in colors that pop against the skyline and water—solid, complementary tones work best.

  • Be ready to move: there are many vantage points, so having flexibility helps if one area gets blocked by people or lighting shifts.

  • Work with a photographer who knows how to handle both natural light and city lights—bridges, windows, and reflections can all affect exposure.

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.

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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!