Chanel Factory New York Summer Party at City Winery NYC

As an NYC Event Photographer working with corporate clients, I understand documenting the Chanel Factory New York Summer Party hosted at the vibrant City Winery. This evening event took place in the afternoon and went until after sunset, allowing me to capture the changing light.

I made sure to capture guests against the backdrop of the Hudson River and Lower Manhattan with the pier 26 view. I focused on capturing candid moments, including laughter between colleagues, spontaneous conversations, and posed groups. I also captured detailed shots of branded elements scattered throughout the venue.. As the event evolved into the evening, the mood shifted: the skyline lit up, and guests gathered for group portraits at sunset. I moved between staged group shots and natural, in-the-moment coverage to preserve both the formal and relaxed energy of the night.

One highlight was capturing the sunset group portraits. The mix of architecture, natural light, and guest energy allowed me to create images that feel both polished and evocative. After the event, I delivered a curated gallery that balances posed headshots, environmental storytelling shots, and detail imagery ideal for social media, press, or internal recaps.

If you’re searching for a NYC corporate event photographer who can handle all phases of your event—from midday to sunset and beyond—Jonathan Heisler delivers seamless coverage, fast turnaround, and images that tell a story. Let’s make your next gala, summer party, or brand experience unforgettable—contact me to book your coverage.

Capturing Mitchell’s Proposal at The Edge Hudson Yards NYC

Amidst the crowds, Mitchell was determined to create a meaningful moment with Sofia. Despite the sea of onlookers, the focus was entirely on the two of them. The mix of overwhelming energy from the crowd and the intimacy of their moment made their moment special. Having captured countless proposals at The Edge, even during the busy, busy holiday season, this was the busiest I had seen The Edge.

Following the proposal, we explored different vantage points of The Edge, taking advantage of the glass-floor views and unique architectural lines that make it one of NYC’s most striking photo backdrops. Sofia’s excitement and joy was evident through every frame, and the combination of golden sunlight coming through the late summer haze, city lights beginning to twinkle, and their geniune happiness made for unforgettable engagement photos. | Read our How to Guide of Proposing at The Edge here!

For couples considering a Hudson Yards proposal, it’s important to keep in mind just how busy The Edge can get, especially at sunset. That’s why working with an experienced NYC proposal photographer can make all the difference. Knowing the flow of the space, the best angles, and how to adapt to unpredictable crowd levels ensures your proposal is captured beautifully, no matter the circumstances.

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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Nathan & Vanessa’s NYC City Hall Elopement | Friday Morning Wedding Photography

There’s something timeless and super impactful about a New York City Hall elopement. On a late August Friday morning, I photographed Nathan and Vanessa as they tied the knot at the Manhattan Marriage Bureau (Aka City Hall). Their moment was simple, intimate, and honest. It’s what make NYC elopements so special. Our time together can be broken down in 3 parts, which I discussed later on in this blog post after the photos:

  1. Posed photos before their appointment

  2. Documenting the ceremony and the details unique to them, and a City Hall Elopement

  3. Post-ceremony portraits around City Hall / Lower Manhattan

Posed Photos Before Their Appointment

We met bright and early to take advantage of the soft morning light before their 8:30am appointment. The energy of the city was just beginning to wake up, which gave us plenty of space for relaxed, posed portraits. Nathan and Vanessa shared a quiet moment together as I guided them through poses that captured both their excitement and calm anticipation before walking into City Hall.

Documenting the Ceremony and Details

Once inside the Manhattan Marriage Bureau, I shifted focus to the details that make a City Hall elopement so unique—the couple’s license, wedding bands, and the brief but meaningful ceremony. The vows may have been short, but the emotion between Nathan and Vanessa spoke volumes. I captured their smiles, laughter, and the joy of officially becoming husband and wife in the heart of New York City.

Portraits Around City Hall

After the ceremony, we explored the elegant architecture of the building and the surrounding City Hall area for more posed portraits. From the classic marble staircases to the greenery of City Hall Park, each backdrop added variety and character to their gallery. These photos celebrated both their love story and the unmistakable charm of downtown Manhattan.

Why Choose a NYC City Hall Elopement Photographer?

Elopements and City Hall weddings may be intimate, but they are just as deserving of thoughtful photography. From candid documentary moments to timeless portraits, having a professional photographer ensures your story is beautifully preserved.

Nathan and Vanessa’s Friday morning ceremony was a reminder that sometimes the simplest celebrations are the most meaningful.

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A Romantic Summer Surprise Proposal in NYC’s West Village

As a NYC surprise proposal photographer, I witness countless unforgettable moments, and each one has its own magic. On August 20th, I had the honor of capturing a truly beautiful summer proposal in the West Village, one of New York City’s most charming and intimate neighborhoods. With its tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and quiet corners, the West Village offers the perfect backdrop for couples looking to celebrate their love in a timeless, romantic setting.

Why the West Village is Perfect for a Proposal
The West Village has a unique charm that combines classic NYC architecture with cozy, hidden corners. For this summer proposal, the couple chose a quiet street near Perry Street, where the sunlight filtered through the trees, casting a soft, golden glow over the scene. The area is ideal for surprise proposals because it provides both privacy and iconic NYC aesthetics without the crowds found in more popular spots like Central Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park.

In the warm summer evening, the West Village came alive with gentle city energy, but the streets remained calm enough for an intimate, heartfelt moment. Historic facades, ivy-covered walls, and cobblestone streets added layers of character to the proposal, making it cinematic and timeless in every photo.

Capturing the Moment
Arriving early, I scouted the best angles and lighting to capture the build-up, the surprise, and the joyful reactions. As the proposal unfolded, I discreetly documented every emotion—the excitement, the laughter, and the tears of happiness. After the big “yes,” we took a short stroll through nearby streets, capturing the couple against the golden hour light for a mini engagement session.

Planning Your West Village Proposal

  • Choose early evening for warm, golden light and calm streets.

  • Consider hiring a local NYC proposal photographer who knows the neighborhood’s hidden gems.

  • Plan a post-proposal celebration—perhaps at a cozy café or rooftop bar nearby.

Whether for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or framed memories at home, a summer West Village proposal delivers timeless, romantic images that will be cherished 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. 

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A Sunny Afternoon Surprise Proposal at Pier 45

As a NYC proposal photographer, I’ve captured proposals all across the city—from iconic bridges to hidden gardens—but Pier 45 offers something refreshingly different. On this bright August afternoon, a couple chose this waterfront gem along the East River as the backdrop for their unforgettable surprise proposal. With the Manhattan Bridge towering overhead, the river sparkling in the midday sun, and even their dog by their side, the moment felt personal, joyful, and uniquely New York.

Why Pier 45 is Perfect for a Proposal
Pier 45, located in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, is part of the East River waterfront parks. It’s modern, accessible, and full of character—perfect for couples looking for a contemporary yet scenic proposal spot.

  • Iconic Views: Pier 45 boasts sweeping views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, as well as the Brooklyn waterfront.

  • Unique Design: With curved wooden seating, elevated viewing platforms, and greenery built into its design, it provides versatile photo backdrops.

  • Dog-Friendly: Since this couple brought their furry friend along, Pier 45’s open design made it an easy choice for a relaxed, pet-friendly proposal.

  • Midday Magic: While many couples opt for sunset or golden hour, this session proves that with the right angles, even midday light can create stunning, vibrant images.

Capturing the Moment
For this proposal, I scouted the pier ahead of time to account for the strong summer light and busy waterfront foot traffic. As the couple arrived with their dog, I discreetly positioned myself near the curved benches where the big question would happen. The surprise unfolded seamlessly—complete with an excited pup bouncing around as she said “yes!”

After the proposal, we spent time capturing engagement photos along the pier’s walkways, using the bold lines of the Manhattan Bridge and the glittering water as a dramatic backdrop. Their dog stole a few frames, making the photos even more heartfelt and authentic.

Planning Your Pier 45 Proposal
If you’re considering proposing at Pier 45, here are a few tips:

  • Opt for late morning or early afternoon when the bridge shadows create contrast and texture.

  • Bring personal touches, like a pet or a planned excuse for being at the pier.

  • Pair the moment with a nearby celebration—Pier 45 is just steps away from Chinatown, the Seaport, and Lower East Side dining options.

Whether you envision a midday waterfront proposal or something more traditional at sunset, having a professional NYC proposal photographer ensures every detail and emotion is 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. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING A PROPOSAL PHOTOGRAPHER IN NYC

BOOK NOW!