Golden Hour Family Session on the Beach in Locust Valley, NY

The Joy of a Big Family Session

This session, which included over ten family members, was about more than just taking pictures; it was about capturing this families true personality and their unique dynamic. I made sure to capture siblings with siblings, cousins with cousins, parents with their kids, and the grandparents with their grandkids, so on and so on! It was a ton of fun watching the kids just be kids, and getting creative with the different combinations, poses, and candid moments we could initiate.

Golden hour, the hour before sunset, is one of the most flattering and magical times for photos. The light is soft, hard at times, and creates a warm that is not seen during the harsh dayligh. On this Long Island beach in Locust Valley, NY we were presented with:

• Warm, Soft Light: The sun’s glow added a natural radiance to every image.

• Beautiful Colors: The sky shifted from soft gold to gentle pinks and blues, creating a dreamy background.

• Relaxed Atmosphere: As the day winds down, families can enjoy a peaceful, laid-back session by the water.

Creating Timeless Family Memories

What makes large family sessions so special is that they bring everyone together in one place. As your kids get older, getting everyone in one place just gets harder and harder. These aren’t just photos; they’re a family heirloom, which will be referenced and shared for years, generations to come!

Book Your Long Island Family Session

Whether you’re gathering a large family or celebrating an everyday moment, a beach session at golden hour is a beautiful way to capture your story. I photograph families across Long Island and New York City, always focusing on natural, heartfelt moments that showcase your unique bond.

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Capturing a Madison Square Park Morning Couples Session

A Romantic Madison Square Park Engagement Session

As a NYC Proposal and Engagement Photographer, I’m always eager to work in locations that blend genuine NYC charm, history, and meaning—and Madison Square Park is just that. Early in the morning, when the streets are calm, the park glows with soft, even morning light, perfect for photography. For this couples session, we chose Madison Square Park for its proximity to Eleven Madison, a restaurant with a ton of meaning to this couple. It’s where they went to celebrate their many professional accomplishments, and it’s where they got engaged! Naturally, we included the front of the restaurant in their photos.

Why Madison Square Park is Perfect for Engagement Photos

The beauty of early morning here is unmatched. The soft, diffused light highlights the park’s greenery, the surrounding architecture, and the calmness of the neighborhood before the city fully wakes up—capturing that unmistakable NYC charm while keeping the moment peaceful and intimate.

Whether you’re celebrating your engagement, planning photos for save-the-dates, or simply wanting to preserve this exciting chapter of your story, Madison Square Park, Gramercy to the East, and Chelsea just to the West offer the perfect blend of timeless New York elegance and urban romance.

Capturing Iconic NYC Moments

For this proposal, we started with the big moment framed by the greenery of Gramercy Park. After she said yes, we transitioned into an engagement session nearby. One of the most iconic shots of the evening? The couple emerging from the classic New York City subway entrance, the golden light streaming behind them, and yellow cabs zipping by—it doesn’t get more “New York” than that.

Planning Your Gramercy Park - NYC Couples session

If you’re considering an engagement session - couples sessionn Gramercy Park, here are a few quick tips:

• Lighting is key and so are crowds — the park and surrounding streets glow beautifully in the morning light, and the park is the emptiest at this time of the day. While the late afternoon looks GREAT for lighting as well, the park is going to be busy and there will be a lot more people in your photos.

• Mix in city energy — capture yellow taxis, subway entrances, and brownstones for iconic NYC photos.

• Celebrate nearby — Gramercy and the Flatiron District are full of chic restaurants and cocktail bars, perfect for celebrating afterward.

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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Daytime Surprise Proposal on Governors Island with Stunning Views

As a NYC surprise proposal photographer, I’ve documented countless unforgettable moments across the city—but a proposal on Governors Island always feels uniquely special. Just a short ferry ride from Lower Manhattan, Governors Island offers couples a mix of tranquility and sweeping skyline views, creating the perfect setting for a surprise proposal.

Why Governors Island Was Chosen for the Proposal

Governors Island has quickly become one of the most photogenic and romantic places to propose in New York City. On this summer afternoon, the location provided everything a couple could want:

• Unobstructed Views: The Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and New York Harbor all serve as dramatic backdrops.

• Spacious and Calm: Unlike Central Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park, Governors Island offers wide-open spaces with fewer crowds—ideal for a private and intimate proposal moment.

• Daytime Light: Even during the day, the bright summer sun reflected beautifully off the water and surrounding greenery, giving every photo a crisp, vibrant quality.

Capturing the Moment

The proposal took place atop Outlook Hill, where the skyline stretched across the horizon. From the build-up to the knee-drop moment, I captured every candid expression and emotion. After the big “yes,” we explored nearby paths, open fields, and waterfront spots for a mini engagement session, making the most of Governors Island’s variety of scenery.

Why Propose on Governors Island During the Day?

Many couples think about sunset or evening proposals, but daytime on Governors Island offers its own magic. The bright, natural light highlights every detail, while the views of the harbor and skyline are crystal clear. Plus, daytime proposals allow couples to celebrate afterward with activities on the island or a short ferry ride back to Manhattan for lunch, drinks, or more photos.

Planning Your Own Governors Island Proposal

If you’re considering popping the question on Governors Island, here are a few quick tips:

• Take the morning or early afternoon ferry to avoid crowds.

• Choose Outlook Hill or the waterfront esplanade for the best views.

• Plan a post-proposal activity, like biking around the island or a picnic on the lawn.

Whether it’s midday under a bright sky or sunset overlooking the harbor, Governors Island is one of NYC’s most versatile and romantic proposal locations. And with a professional NYC proposal photographer capturing the moment discreetly, you’ll have timeless memories to 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

A Central Park Proposal Behind the Ladies Pavilion

As a Central Park Proposal Photographer in New York City, I’m always on the lookout for locations that combine privacy, a view, and good light. One of my favorite spots is just behind the Ladies Pavilion, offering sweeping views of Midtown Manhattan framed by Central Park’s lush green spaces.

Central Park Proposal Photographer | Midtown Skyline Views

The Ladies Pavilion itself is a classic choice, but it can often be filled with people (and trash), the view isn’t ideal, it’s confining, and the the lighting is not good (dark inside, bright background). However, the spot just behind it proves to be ideal (location here). Here, the skyline of midtown Manhattan is visible above the trees, giving couples the perfect mix of city and nature in their proposal photos.

As a professional Central Park engagement and proposal photographer, I help couples find the perfect spot to ask the biggest question of their lives. Whether you’re drawn to classic landmarks like Bow Bridge or Bethesda Terrace, or you prefer tucked-away spots like this one behind the Ladies Pavilion, I’ll guide you through the best choices for lighting, crowds, and overall atmosphere.

Planning a proposal in Central Park? Let’s create the perfect moment with the New York City skyline as your backdrop.

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

Summer Day Proposal at Bow Bridge, Central Park

As a NYC proposal photographer, I always love capturing proposals in Central Park, but Bow Bridge in the summer has its own special energy. On July 29th, the park was bathed in bright daylight, with sunlight streaming through the trees and reflecting on the water below. The couple’s joyful moments felt effortless and natural, perfectly complemented by the iconic bridge and surrounding greenery.

Why Bow Bridge Works for a Summer Day Proposal

Bow Bridge is one of Central Park’s most versatile proposal spots. Unlike golden hour or sunset sessions, daytime light brings out the vivid colors of the park’s lush foliage and creates crisp, lively images. The bridge itself provides architectural interest while the surrounding lake and trees frame the couple in a way that feels both romantic and relaxed.

This location is ideal for couples seeking:

• Vibrant daylight photography — summer light makes colors pop and images feel fresh.

• Classic Central Park charm — the bridge, water, and foliage provide an unmistakably NYC backdrop.

• Candid, joyful moments — open daylight encourages natural movement and interaction without the need for posed shots.

Capturing the Moment

I started by walking the paths leading to Bow Bridge to find the best spots for light and perspective. As the couple approached the bridge, I captured their laughter, playful glances, and the anticipation building up to the proposal. When the moment came, the bright daylight highlighted their emotions and the surrounding greenery, creating vibrant, joyful images. Afterward, we explored nearby paths to capture more candid shots, mixing wide scenic views with close-up details.

Planning Your Bow Bridge Daytime Proposal

• Choose mid-morning or early afternoon to take advantage of strong, clear daylight.

• Scout angles with your photographer — the bridge and surrounding paths offer many photogenic options.

• Keep it relaxed and natural — daytime sessions work best when couples feel free to move, laugh, and interact naturally.

Hiring a professional NYC proposal photographer ensures every moment is captured beautifully, from candid expressions to scenic compositions. Bow Bridge in summer provides a bright, cheerful, and iconic setting that results in timeless photographs.

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

David's Pier 26 Summertime Proposal

A Romantic Summertime Surprise Proposal on Pier 26 in Lower Manhattan

As a NYC surprise proposal photographer, I witnessed countless unforgettable moments—each one really is unique. Set along Manhattan’s scenic West Side, Pier 26’s location offers the perfect blend of waterfront views, city skyline, no tourists, and a good story of why and when.

Why David Chose Pier 26 for His Proposal

Pier 26, part of Hudson River Park in Lower Manhattan’s Tribeca neighborhood, is a hidden gem for couples seeking a peaceful yet iconic New York City backdrop. With its sweeping views of the Hudson River, the One World Trade Center towering nearby, and the Statue of Liberty visible in the distance, it’s no wonder David selected this location for such an important moment.

In the summer, Pier 26 comes alive with lush greenery, cool river breezes, and a warm, golden glow as the sun sets over the water. It’s a perfect blend of urban energy and natural tranquility—ideal for a surprise proposal in NYC. Pier 26 at Hudson River Park also has the City Vineyard right there, easily giving you a reasonable excuse to go for “brunch”, “lunch”, “dinner”, or “drinks” at a set time.

Why Pier 26 is Ideal for a Summer NYC Proposal

• Scenic Waterfront Views: Pier 26 offers panoramic views of Lower Manhattan, Jersey City, and the Hudson River, all bathed in golden hour light during summer evenings.

• Less Crowded Than Other NYC Spots: Compared to more well-known spots like Brooklyn Bridge Park or Central Park, Pier 26 offers more privacy—ideal for surprise proposals.

• Unique Features: The eco-friendly Tide Deck, rooftop deck, and native gardens add character and versatility to any proposal photo session.

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