Capturing Dylan's Sunset Brooklyn Bridge Park Proposal

A Hidden Gem for Proposals in Brooklyn Bridge Park: Behind Celestine

As a professional NYC Proposal Photographer who has captured over thousands of proposals since 2012, I’ve learned one important truth—New York’s most iconic spots only get busier with time. The Brooklyn Bridge, DUMBO, and Jane’s Carousel are always filled with tourists and other photoshoots,, making it difficult to plan a private and intimate moment. But what many don’t know is that tucked just behind the restaurant Celestine on Jay Street lies one of Brooklyn Bridge Park’s best-kept secrets for proposals.

For Dylan’s sunset proposal, this hidden spot offered everything we needed: breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan skyline, the World Trade Center, and of course, the sunset over the city. It gave us the perfect balance of iconic NYC scenery while still maintaining a level of privacy that can be hard to find in such a popular area.

For couples planning a proposal in Brooklyn Bridge Park, I always recommend considering this quiet corner behind Celestine. It’s close enough to the heart of DUMBO for post-proposal celebrations, but just far enough to avoid the crowds. With thoughtful planning, you can capture the magic of NYC while keeping the moment truly yours.

If you’re dreaming of a Brooklyn Bridge proposal that blends romance, iconic views, and privacy, this hidden location might be the perfect fit.

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

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. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING A PROPOSAL PHOTOGRAPHER IN NYC

Central Park Ladies Pavilion Daytime Proposal

Central Park’s Ladies Pavilion is one of those timeless New York spots that feels peaceful no matter how busy the city gets. Nestled along the lake with the skyline peeking through the trees, it’s surrounded by greenery, water, and soft light - especially on a sunny afternoon. For William’s proposal, the weather couldn’t have been better. The couple arrived by the lake under clear skies, the sunlight reflecting off the water and filtering through the leaves. With the Pavilion behind them and the rocks nearby adding that classic Central Park charm, William got down on one knee.

The moment was quiet and full of emotion; just the two of them, the sound of the water, and people passing by in the distance.

After the proposal, we walked around the area capturing portraits along the lake, near the Pavilion, and on the nearby rocks. The sunlight made every photo glow, and the greenery gave each frame that signature Central Park feel.

Why the Ladies Pavilion Is a Perfect Spot for Proposals

The Ladies Pavilion combines everything people love about Central Park - lake views, soft light, and a touch of old New York charm. It’s slightly tucked away, offering privacy while still feeling open and bright.

During the day, the sunlight reflects beautifully off the water, and the surrounding trees create a natural frame for photos. Whether it’s an intimate moment by the lake or a full shoot around the nearby paths and rocks, this location captures both the romance and the energy of the city.

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

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.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING A PROPOSAL PHOTOGRAPHER IN NYC

Joel's Romantic DUMBO Proposal | Brooklyn Bridge Park Proposal Photography

Choosing the Perfect Proposal Spot in DUMBO

We’ve captured thousands of surprise proposals across New York City since 2012, and each one is genuinely unique and memorable. Recently, our team photographed Joel’s proposal in DUMBO, a location that perfectly blends Brooklyn’s charm with sweeping views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline. When most couples think of a DUMBO proposal, they picture the crowded areas near Jane’s Carousel (examples here) or along the waterfront South of the bridge near the Rivers Cafe. However, Joel wanted something more private and intimate, while still incorporating the Brooklyn asthetic. Together, we chose a tucked-away location in Brooklyn Bridge Park, just behind Celestine, the popular restaurant on Jay Street.

The Perfect Cover Story

We helped Joel plan every detail of his surprise NYC proposal with care. To keep the proposal a surprise, he told his partner they had a dinner reservation at Celestine. This clever excuse made it natural to walk toward this part of the park at just the right time. It give him a reason to go to X spot at Y time.

Why DUMBO is One of NYC’s Best Proposal Locations

DUMBO is one of New York City’s top proposal and engagement spots because it offers:

• Iconic views of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges

• A mix of cobblestone streets, parks, and waterfront backdrops

• Easy access to world-class restaurants like Celestine for a celebration afterward

By choosing a less crowded area, Joel created a proposal that felt special, intimate, and unforgettable.

Planning Your Brooklyn Bridge Proposal

As New York City’s best proposal photographer, Jonathan Heisler Photography helps couples plan and capture their perfect moment. From scouting the right location to ensuring every detail is discreetly documented, we’re here to make your engagement unforgettable.

Thinking about proposing in New York City? Let’s talk about creating the perfect moment—and capturing 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

Friday Afternoon Proposal in Central Park’s Conservatory Garden

As a NYC Proposal Photographer, I’ve captured countless proposals, but Rohil’s September early evening proposal was beautifully intimate. Instead of choosing one of Central Park’s busier landmarks, Rohil and I planned something more private for his future fiancée—a proposal in a tucked-away section of the Conservatory Garden, beneath the charming elevated trellis.

The timing couldn’t have been better. On a Friday afternoon, the garden was quiet, bathed in the soft glow of early fall light. The trellis offered a natural frame of greenery, purple flowers, and rustic charm, making the perfect backdrop for a surprise proposal. Unlike the bustling Bethesda Terrace or Bow Bridge, this spot allowed Rohil and his partner to savor the moment in peace without the distraction of large crowds, other photographers, and at times uneven lighting.

If you’re considering a Central Park proposal, don’t overlook its hidden gems. Whether under a trellis, in a quiet garden, or along a secluded pathway, these lesser-known locations offer beauty, intimacy, and photographs you’ll cherish 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