As a NYC engagement photographer, few spots offer such a dramatic combination of city skyline and waterfront charm as Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City. On April 23rd, the park was alive with the fresh energy of spring — blooming trees, gentle breezes off the East River, and soft afternoon light reflecting on the water. It was the perfect setting for capturing a couple’s love story with the Manhattan skyline as a breathtaking backdrop.
Why Gantry Plaza is Perfect for Engagement Photos
Gantry Plaza is one of NYC’s hidden gems. Its wide piers and open spaces provide unobstructed views of the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and the East River, making every angle picture-perfect. The park’s industrial-chic gantries add character and a unique urban flair that balances beautifully with the natural beauty of the waterfront.
Couples choose Gantry Plaza for:
Iconic skyline views — Manhattan’s towering buildings across the river make for cinematic shots.
Waterfront ambiance — the gentle ripples of the East River add motion and tranquility.
Open space and privacy — plenty of room to wander, laugh, and create candid moments without crowds.
Capturing the Moment
I love starting sessions here in the late afternoon, when the light softens and the skyline glows. On this day, the couple strolled along the pier, hand-in-hand, pausing to take in the view and laugh naturally. We moved between the gantries and the waterfront path, framing moments against the sparkling water and iconic skyline. By the time the sun was low, the golden light reflected off the river, creating those warm, cinematic images every couple dreams of.
Planning Your Gantry Plaza Engagement Session
If you’re thinking about Gantry Plaza for your engagement photos:
Aim for late afternoon in spring or summer to catch golden hour over the skyline.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking the piers and park paths.
Scout the location with your photographer to maximize both scenic and intimate shots.
Whether you want sweeping skyline portraits or relaxed, candid moments by the water, hiring a professional NYC engagement photographer ensures every detail — light, angle, and timing — is captured beautifully.
Jonathan Heisler Photography is comprised of professional New York City photographers specializing in photographing private NYC proposals.