Golden Hour Pier 25 Proposal

Pier 25 is one of those places that truly shines at golden hour. The light hits the Hudson River and the West side of Manhattan, the skyline starts to glow, and you can see the sun setting behind New Jersey while the towers of Lower Manhattan light up for the evening. For Will’s Proposal, everything came together perfectly. The couple arrived just as the sky turned into warm gold. With the One World Trade Center standing tall in the background and the water reflecting the last light of the day, Will got down on one knee.

The moment was quiet and simple—just the two of them with the sound of the river and people passing by.

After the proposal, we captured portraits along the waterfront, using the skyline and sunset as a backdrop. The timing couldn’t have been better and nor could have the weather for an early October night here in New York City.

Why Pier 25 Is Perfect for a NYC Proposal

Pier 25 offers one of the best unobstructed skyline views in Lower Manhattan. It’s a quieter alternative to nearby Battery Park or the High Line, with open waterfront space and incredible light during golden hour.

Couples can enjoy both the Manhattan skyline and the sunset behind New Jersey—a rare combination that gives photos depth and warmth. Whether it’s an intimate proposal or a planned celebration with friends afterward, Pier 25 delivers that timeless New York atmosphere without the crowds.

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 Proposal at Central Park Overlook with Stunning NYC Skyline

As a NYC proposal photographer, I’m always excited to capture moments in Central Park where the city and nature meet perfectly. On June 20th, the light was just right — bright, clear, and full of energy. The couple chose a scenic overlook that frames the Manhattan skyline beautifully, making it an ideal spot for a daytime proposal with sweeping city views.

Why Central Park Overlook is Perfect for a Daytime Proposal

Central Park offers countless iconic locations, but overlooks provide a unique perspective of the city in all its glory. From this vantage point, you can see Midtown and Upper Manhattan rising behind the trees, blending urban architecture with lush greenery.

Couples choose this spot for:

• Unobstructed skyline views — perfect for memorable photos with Manhattan in the background.

• Daylight photography — clear, natural light ensures crisp and vibrant images.

• A serene park atmosphere — despite being in the heart of the city, the overlook feels private and peaceful.

Capturing the Moment

I arrived early to find the best angles and lighting. As the couple approached the overlook, I captured candid reactions, the nervous excitement, and finally the joyful “yes!” moments — all against the backdrop of a bright, airy sky and the city skyline. Even during a short daytime session, the combination of greenery and architecture created a series of photos that feel both intimate and unmistakably New York.

Planning Your Central Park Daytime Proposal

• Schedule during mid-morning or early afternoon for bright, even light.

• Scout the overlook with your photographer to plan the best angles.

• Keep it simple and focused — a short session can capture beautiful memories without feeling rushed.
  
  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

Dean's Williamsburg Brooklyn Rooftop Proposal

Dean chose a tasteful and perfectly timed way to propose atop the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg Brooklyn. He rented one of the hotels best rooms with a magnificent view of the Manhattan skyline.

Why the Wythe Hotel Rooftop Is a Perfect Proposal Spot

• Spectacular Manhattan Skyline Views — From the rooftop at Wythe, you see sweeping Manhattan vistas. The Empire State, lower Manhattan skyscrapers, the East River, all framed in one view. It’s dramatic, romantic, and ideal for photos with impact.

• Rooftop Ambience + Privacy — Compared to public parks or busy bridges, a hotel rooftop offers more control over the moment: fewer interruptions, cleaner lines of sight, and a more curated setting that feels both elevated and personal.

• Golden Light Opportunities — The height and orientation of Wythe’s rooftop make it especially good at dusk. As the sun sets, light casts across the cityscape beautifully—softening edges, creating golden tones, and giving romantic warmth to every shot.

• Stylish, Urban Vibe — Williamsburg itself mixes gritty charm and modernity. The Wythe Hotel rooftop strikes that perfect balance: upscale enough to feel special; still full of texture, character, and edge that speaks of NYC.

Capturing Dean’s Proposal: Details & Moments

Dean planned carefully. He booked one of Wythe Hotel’s best rooms—positioned to give views right over the city. I scouted ahead to find angles that would maximize both view and light, especially as sunset approached.

As dusk set in and the sky softened, Dean asked. The moment landed against a backdrop of glowing city lights and fading day. Afterwards, we walked around the rooftop edge, capturing reflections, silhouette shots, and candid reactions. The architecture, the skyline, and the emotional punch all came together in images that feel cinematic and real.

If you’re considering proposing in Williamsburg—especially somewhere elevated like the Wythe Hotel rooftop—and you want that moment captured with elegance, heart, and cinematic beauty, let’s connect.

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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Tim's Central Park Model Boat Pond Marriage Proposal

What’s so unique about the Model Boat pond in Central Park is how intimate and quiet this not so hidden NYC gym is. The tourists flock to Bethesda Fountain, the Bow Bridge, and the Gapstow Bridge, but the Model Boat Pond, not so much. Located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side this Central Park location is one of my favorite places to capture a surprise marriage proposal.

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