The Ultimate Guide to Engagement Photos in New York City & New Jersey
Before we dive into location recommendations, we want to share a quick thought: Choosing a spot for your engagement photos should never feel overwhelming. Don’t worry about what others might think—what matters most is how the place makes you feel. Whether it’s your home, a park, or even a quiet street, beauty can be found anywhere.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, stress-free session with beautiful photos, that’s completely okay too. To make things easier, we’ve put together a list of unique locations in New York and New Jersey, each with its own charm. Pick the one that speaks to you!
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Top NYC Engagement Photo Locations
Central Park
Central Park is, without a doubt, the place We have photographed the most. Yet every time we go, we discover something new and exciting. It’s a spot that works for almost anyone. The park offers stunning natural scenery, historic architecture, and a unique cultural vibe. If you don’t mind the crowds, you can shoot here at almost any time. But if you prefer peace and quiet and want to feel like the park is all yours, early mornings are a great option. Central Park is beautiful year-round, with each season offering its own charm. Spring and fall are undoubtedly the most breathtaking, but winter, if you don’t mind the cold, has its own magic—you can just imagine how stunning the park looks covered in snow. Some of the most popular spots include The Mall, Bethesda Terrace, and Bethesda Fountain.
DUMBO
Dumbo is another classic spot for engagement photos. While it’s not in Manhattan, it offers the most breathtaking views of the city, especially at dusk when the sunset mixes with the twinkling city lights. Can you imagine? In such a beautiful place, there’s even a charming carousel, and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge stretches overhead, connecting to Manhattan. If you have the time, take a stroll on the Brooklyn Bridge. You’ll walk beneath its grand arches, with the captivating Manhattan skyline as your backdrop.
Beyond the riverside area, you’ll find historic red-brick buildings, cobblestone streets, abandoned rail tracks, charming shops, and of course, the famous “Dumbo – Manhattan Bridge View” at the intersection of Water Street and Washington Street. This spot has been featured in countless iconic movies.
For us, the only downside of Dumbo is that its beauty is no secret—sometimes it can get overly crowded. To avoid the rush, try to skip weekends and holiday late afternoons. If you don’t mind waking up early, Dumbo in the morning is wonderfully serene and just as delightful.
Brooklyn Heights
This is a quaint neighborhood just south of the Brooklyn Bridge (with DUMBO to the north). Although it’s a small area, it has its own distinct character. The streets are quiet, with few pedestrians, and are lined with beautiful historic buildings and trees. The stunning Brooklyn Bridge Park offers a picturesque backdrop, with Manhattan in the distance. If you enjoy a peaceful, scenic environment, this is an ideal spot for a short photo session. It also makes for a great addition to Dumbo, adding variety and a unique touch to your photos.
West Village
The West Village is one of New York City’s most historic and charming neighborhoods, yet we believe it’s one of the most underrated spots for engagement photography. With its quaint, tree-lined streets, beautiful brownstones, and old-world charm, it offers a peaceful and timeless atmosphere. You’ll find quiet streets filled with life—strolling pedestrians, cozy cafes, and a vibrant mix of trendy boutiques and cultural landmarks. For those who connect with its unique character, the West Village is truly a hidden gem.
SoHo
SoHo is a vibrant neighborhood with a trendy atmosphere and artistic vibe. Its iconic cast-iron architecture, cobblestone streets, and high-end boutiques add a unique character to photos, making it a standout choice for shoots.
Compared to the peaceful vibe of West Village, SoHo is always buzzing with busy streets and a steady flow of pedestrians. This dynamic energy gives the area a distinctive charm, making it perfect for those who are drawn to its lively and fashionable atmosphere.
Shooting here is always a fun experience. Couples can start anywhere in the neighborhood and wander through the streets, enjoying the same joyful vibe as a day of shopping together. The unique street scenes, with the crowds and passing cars, all become part of the picture, adding to the lively energy.
Grand Central Station
Grand Central is a truly unique location for engagement photos, with the added advantage of being unaffected by the weather. You’ve likely seen iconic images of couples embracing in the grand hall, surrounded by bustling crowds—this classic scene perfectly captures the essence of Grand Central.
Beyond the central hall, there are many hidden gems and stunning corners waiting to be explored. If the energy of busy commuters and the vibrant pulse of a major transit hub resonate with your story, Grand Central offers a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s an ideal spot for couples seeking a dynamic, memorable, and distinctly New York backdrop for their engagement photos.
New York Street
For a true New York City experience, consider taking your engagement photos right on the bustling streets. Walking among towering skyscrapers, you’ll feel the city’s energy all around you. Capturing the movement of busy streets—pedestrians rushing by, iconic yellow taxis in motion—adds a dynamic, cinematic feel that makes your photos unmistakably New York. NYC’s signature cityscape is everywhere, so after capturing any specific location, you can seamlessly blend into the surrounding streets. This adds variety and depth to your engagement session, making your photos even more dynamic
Top New Jersey Engagement Photo Location
Liberty State Park
Liberty State Park is another fantastic spot with a breathtaking view of Manhattan, similar to DUMBO. The city skyline lies just across the river, and at sunset, the golden light bathes the city, creating a magical backdrop.
Along the riverbank, you’ll find the historic “Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal.” This timeless building, both inside and out, provides a unique and beautiful setting for photos. Additionally, an abandoned railway and vintage train cars offer a rustic, nostalgic atmosphere, adding depth and variety to your shoot.
Unlike the bustling DUMBO, Liberty State Park remains a hidden gem, with fewer crowds and a tranquil ambiance. In my opinion, it’s one of the most underrated locations for engagement photos, offering stunning views and diverse photo opportunities in a peaceful setting.
Grounds for Sculpture
Grounds for Sculpture is our favorite private park in NJ for engagement photos. The park offers a rich variety of settings: lakes, woods, meadows, and historic buildings, all adding depth and diversity to your engagement photos.
What truly sets this park apart from most others are the massive sculptures scattered throughout. These impressive works of art serve as stunning backdrops, infusing your photos with a unique artistic touch.
For couples who love art and live in New Jersey or near Philadelphia, don’t miss the chance to capture your special moments in this must-visit location.
Princeton University
Princeton University is located in a historic town known for its historical architecture, peaceful surroundings, and well-kept gardens. The charm of Princeton lies in its timeless streets, where every corner feels like it has a story to tell. In the fall, the campus becomes even more beautiful, with vibrant autumn colors creating a stunning natural backdrop.
Beyond its beauty, Princeton has a unique academic atmosphere that brings depth and character to your engagement photos. For couples looking for a mix of history, beauty, and intellect, Princeton is a perfect place to capture their special moments.
New Hope & Lambertville
New Hope and Lambertville are our favorite historical towns, not just for photography but also for leisurely strolls and dining at local restaurants—it’s all so relaxing and enjoyable.
Located along the Delaware River, these towns offer a historical train station and old railway tracks, ideal for unique photo settings. I especially love the charming storefronts and bustling small-town street scenes. Grabbing a cup of coffee and exploring the streets adds a sense of adventure to the experience.
If you often visit places like New Hope and Lambertville and enjoy this kind of atmosphere, it’s the perfect choice for your engagement photos.
Wherever you choose, the most important thing is that the location feels meaningful to you. Let’s create something beautiful together!
