Greg's Carl Schurz Park Upper East Side Surprise Proposal

Capturing the Perfect Moment: Greg’s Afternoon Proposal at Carl Schurz Park on Manhattan’s Upper East Side

When Greg decided to propose to his partner, he knew he wanted the moment to be as unique and memorable as their story. After careful consideration, he chose Carl Schurz Park on Manhattan's Upper East Side for the special occasion. While Central Park is often considered the go-to spot for proposals in New York City, Carl Schurz Park offers a quieter, more intimate alternative that can elevate your engagement photography to another level. If you live on the Upper East Side you must have visited Carl Schurz atleast once.

In this blog post, we'll walk you through the beauty of Carl Schurz Park, why it's an ideal location for a proposal, and the unforgettable experience of photographing Greg's afternoon engagement.

While Central Park has earned its iconic status as a proposal hotspot, Carl Schurz Park offers its own set of unique advantages that make it a hidden gem for couples looking for something more serene and personal.

  1. Tranquil, Less Crowded Setting Central Park, while stunning, is often bustling with tourists, joggers, and photographers. For a more private and peaceful atmosphere, Carl Schurz Park provides a quieter setting on the Upper East Side, with fewer crowds, which allows for a more intimate experience. The serene environment makes it easier to connect with your partner and focus on the moment without distractions.

  2. Stunning Views of the East River and Roosevelt Island One of the standout features of Carl Schurz Park is its breathtaking views of the East River. The park offers panoramic vistas of Roosevelt Island, the Queensboro Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline, creating a picturesque backdrop that perfectly complements the beauty of the proposal. Whether you're near the water’s edge or nestled in one of the park’s lush green spaces, the scenery adds a dramatic flair to your photos.

  3. Diverse Photo Opportunities The park's design, which includes tree-lined paths, blooming gardens, and elegant statues, provides a range of picturesque backdrops for engagement photos. From the iconic Gracie Mansion (the official residence of the Mayor of New York City) to the tranquil riverside, the location offers a variety of scenic spots that will make your engagement photos look as though they belong in a storybook.

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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A Quintessential Fall Proposal on the Bow Bridge

Fall in New York City is magical—crisp air, golden foliage, and that soft, warm light that seems to pause time just for you. For Rashib’s proposal, Bow Bridge in Central Park provided the perfect backdrop: trees ablaze with autumn color, the water shimmering, and the bridge standing as a graceful arch against the skyline. With just the right moment, a walk in the park turned into something unforgettable.

The Proposal Story:
Rashib planned an afternoon walk with his partner through Central Park, the kind of outing that feels peaceful yet alive. As they approached Bow Bridge, the colors of fall were at their peak—fiery reds, amber, gold—and the light had that mellow glow only fall can bring. Standing together on the bridge, with foliage overhead and the reflections on the pond below, Rashib knelt. Between rustling leaves and quiet laughter, the moment was intimate despite being in one of New York’s most photographed places.

They stayed a while after, savoring the view, sharing smiles, exploring nearby paths, and taking photos that captured both the vast panorama and the little details: leaf-covered paths, silhouette shots, and gentle embraces.

Why Bow Bridge in Fall Is a Magical Choice:

  • Seasonal Light & Color: Autumn offers warm tones—the golden hour is richer, shadows softer, contrasts more flattering.

  • Nature + Architecture Balance: The elegant curves of Bow Bridge + autumn foliage + the pond reflections = layered visuals that tell a story.

  • Emotion & Atmosphere: The cooler air, falling leaves, and soft light give proposals a nostalgic, romantic feel.

  • Accessibility: Bow Bridge is relatively easy to reach, yet once on or near the bridge, the scene feels private, serene, and special.

Tips for Planning a Fall Proposal at Bow Bridge:

  • Aim for mid-afternoon to just before sunset, so you get warm light but still plenty of daylight.

  • Visit on a weekday if possible: fewer crowds, more breathing space.

  • Choose outfits that complement fall colors: warm tones (burgundy, mustard, forest green), soft layers, and textures like wool or knit.

  • Be mindful of the weather—fall days can shift, so bring layers or plan for possible overcast light.

  • Pick a photographer familiar with Bow Bridge—someone who knows vantage points, how light shifts, and how to use reflections.

Rashib’s proposal on Bow Bridge is a reminder that with the right timing, light, and location, even a simple walk through Central Park can become a golden moment you’ll remember forever.

If you’re thinking of planning a proposal in Central Park—during fall or any season—Jonathan Heisler Photography would love to help you capture every meaningful, beautiful detail.

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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

Capturing a Real Long Island Family at Home | Posed and Candid Moments Make the Session Succesful!

When it comes to family photography, there's something undeniably special about capturing moments in the comfort of your own home. Home is where memories are made, laughter is shared, and connections are felt most deeply. Recently, I photographed this happy family right in their Long Island home, and the experience was nothing short of heartwarming.

This particular family consisted of two adorable girls, their parents, and the grandparents, all of whom came together to create a picture perfect session that showcased the essence of family life. It was an intimate setting filled with genuine moments, and the photographs that emerged from this session truly reflect the love and bond that ties this family together.

Why home photography sessions with a professional are so, so good!

Comfort and Familiarity
One of the biggest advantages of having a family session at home is the sense of comfort and familiarity it brings. The children, especially, felt completely at ease in their own environment. There's no rush, no travel stress—just an opportunity to be themselves in the space where they feel most secure. This allows for more candid, natural interactions that truly capture the spirit of the family.

Whether it's the girls running through the living room, playing with their favorite toys, or sitting on the couch cuddled up with grandma and grandpa, the photographs taken in these spaces feel incredibly authentic. No stiff poses—just real, unscripted moments that tell the story of a family’s everyday life.

Generational Connections
Having the grandparents join the session added another layer of warmth and significance to the photos. It was a beautiful reminder of how family ties span generations. The joy on the girls' faces as they played with their grandparents or hugged them tightly was a testament to the special relationship between them. There’s something truly magical about capturing these moments, as they’re often the memories that last a lifetime.

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Corporate Conference Photography in NYC | NPM 2024 by Jonathan Heisler

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As a professional NYC corporate event photographer, capturing the essence of a full-day conference is both exhilarating and challenging. In November 2024, I had the privilege of photographing the NPM Financial Services conference, a dynamic event featuring multiple speaker panels and breakout sessions.

Key Aspects of Conference Photography:

  • Dynamic Speaker Panels: Documenting a range of discussions, from intimate two-person conversations to expansive panels with up to eight participants.

  • Audience Engagement: Capturing attendees' reactions, note-taking, and interactions to convey the event's atmosphere.

  • Branding and Details: Highlighting sponsor logos, signage, and event materials to maintain brand consistency.

  • Candid Moments: Photographing spontaneous interactions during breaks and networking sessions to add depth to the event's narrative.

Utilizing dual-camera setups, I ensured comprehensive coverage, from wide-angle shots of the venue to close-ups of speakers and attendees. This approach allows clients to relive the event's energy and engagement through a diverse image gallery.

If you're planning a corporate conference or event in NYC and seek a photographer who can deliver high-quality, storytelling images with a quick turnaround, let's connect. I'd be honored to capture your next event.

Zack's Manhattan Waterfront Proposal

New York City is renowned for its iconic landmarks and picturesque settings, making it a dream location for couples looking to propose, regardless of where you are from. If you're planning a surprise proposal and want to ensure that the moment is captured beautifully, hiring a professional proposal photographer is a must. Pier 64, located along the Hudson River in Tribeca, is one of the most scenic spots in the city, offering a blend of natural beauty and urban charm. The stunning backdrop of Manhattan’s skyline as the stage for your unforgettable moment is, well, unforgettable

In this blog, we’ll explore what makes a surprise proposal on Pier 64 the perfect setting and why hiring a professional photographer to document the event is the best way to preserve those precious memories.

Why Pier 64 is Perfect for a Surprise Proposal

Pier 64 offers a serene yet striking setting for any couple ready to take the next step in their relationship. This hidden gem in the heart of Tribeca has a combination of lush green spaces, wooden boardwalks, and panoramic views of the Hudson River. The area is part of Hudson River Park, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life while still being close to the heart of NYC.

  • Breathtaking Views: The skyline of lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty make for an epic backdrop.

  • Natural Beauty: The waterfront, gardens, and outdoor spaces provide a lush, romantic atmosphere.

  • Tranquil Yet Accessible: Pier 64 isn’t overly crowded, giving you the perfect environment for an intimate moment without the distractions of mass crowds.

A surprise proposal is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and having the right photographer there to document every second is essential. A professional photographer brings more than just technical skill; they have the expertise to anticipate the moment, blend seamlessly into the environment, and capture the emotions in a way that truly tells your love story.

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

book now!