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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A Unforgettable Governors Island Proposal at Collective Retreats | NYC Proposal Photographer

As a NYC proposal photographer, I’ve captured hundreds (a few thousand) proposals across every corner of the city—but few spots rival the magic of Governors Island at sunset, where there are no crowds and no unobstructed views. For Dhruv’s surprise proposal at Collective Retreats, we planned every detail carefully to make sure this early October moment unfolded flawlessly against one of the most scenic backdrops in New York City.

Planning the Perfect Governors Island Proposal

Governors Island is unlike any other proposal location in NYC—it’s peaceful, scenic, and feels like a world away from the city, even though it’s just an 8-minute ferry ride from Lower Manhattan. Dhruv and I coordinated the timing down to the minute. They’d spend the day on the island at the retreat, and I would arrive to their private cabin just before they’d come back for dinner.

We chose Collective Retreats, the island’s beautiful glamping-style resort, for its private, relaxed setting and incredible views of the Statue of Liberty. After a quick walkthrough earlier in the week, we decided to capture the big moment at Outlook Hill, one of the island’s highest points with a 360° panoramic view of Manhattan, New Jersey, New York Harbor, and Lady Liberty herself.

Why Governors Island is a Hidden Gem for Proposals

For couples looking for something unique yet quintessentially New York, Governors Island offers it all—privacy, skyline views, and a touch of adventure. The ferry ride adds to the excitement, the lighting is incredible near golden hour, and there are endless opportunities for stunning photographs.

Whether you’re planning a sunset proposal at Collective Retreats, a romantic picnic by the harbor, or a panoramic moment atop Outlook Hill, this destination feels like your own private slice of New York City.

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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Lincoln Center Midday Proposal

Lincoln Center is one of those classic New York City locations that never loses its charm. With its open plaza, fountains, and the iconic backdrop of the Metropolitan Opera House, it’s the kind of place that feels elegant and timeless, especially on a bright October afternoon.

For this proposal, the couple arrived on the balcony during ballet’s intermission, surrounded by the clean lines of the buildings. Without much pretense, he got down on one knee right there in front of it all. It was a simple, confident moment - no elaborate setup, just genuine emotion and the energy of the city around them. She said yes, and applause quickly followed from nearby visitors who happened to witness it.

After the proposal, we took portraits around the area: in front of the reflecting pool, along the marble walkways, and near the steps of the theater. The light was perfect - bright, and full of that early-fall warmth that makes October in New York so photogenic.

Why Lincoln Center Is a Beautiful Spot for Proposals

Lincoln Center offers a mix of modern architecture, open light, and classic New York character. During midday, the sun reflects beautifully off the white stone and glass, creating a bright, elegant backdrop for photos.

It’s ideal for couples who want a clean, sophisticated city setting without the heavy crowds of Midtown. Whether you’re drawn to the fountain, the symmetry of the plaza, or the arts and culture surrounding it, Lincoln Center has a calm, timeless feel that works in every season.

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 Beautiful September Morning Proposal on the Brooklyn Bridge

There’s nothing quite like experiencing the Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise. On this September morning, the sky glowed a soft purple-blue as the sun began to rise over the East River. The Manhattan skyline sparkled in the distance, creating an unforgettable backdrop for a romantic surprise proposal. As a NYC proposal photographer, I know that early mornings on the bridge are some of the most magical moments the city has to offer.

Why the Brooklyn Bridge is Perfect for a Morning Proposal

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks, and early morning is the best time to experience it in full serenity. The crowds haven’t yet arrived, the light is soft and flattering, and the skyline views are unmatched. September mornings bring a crispness to the air and a dreamy glow that makes the moment feel both cinematic and intimate.

Couples love proposing on the Brooklyn Bridge because:

• Unobstructed Views: From the East River to the Manhattan skyline, the bridge offers 360-degree photo opportunities.

• Movie like romance : Early morning colors—like the purple-blue sky we witnessed—add a movie like element to the experience and the photos, which you’ll have forever.

• Iconic Architecture: The stone arches and suspension cables frame each shot perfectly, making it instantly recognizable and timeless.

Capturing the Moment

For this proposal, I arrived early to find the best angles along the wooden pedestrian path. As the couple reached the center of the bridge, the sky shifted from purple-blue to soft golden hues. Against the backdrop of Lower Manhattan’s skyline, he got down on one knee. The quiet stillness of the bridge at that hour made the moment feel private, even in one of the busiest cities in the world.

After the “yes,” we took additional portraits along the bridge, using both the sweeping skyline views and the intricate architectural details to tell their story.

Planning Your Brooklyn Bridge Proposal

If you’re considering a Brooklyn Bridge proposal, here are a few quick tips:

• Go early. Sunrise offers the most privacy and the best light.

• Dress smart. It can be breezy in the morning, so layers help.

• Plan portraits. After the proposal, stroll toward Brooklyn Bridge Park for more iconic photos by the waterfront.

Brooklyn Bridge proposals are bold, beautiful, and unforgettable. With the right timing and a professional NYC proposal photographer to capture it all, you’ll have timeless images of one of the city’s most iconic locations.

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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Capturing Dylan's Sunset Brooklyn Bridge Park Proposal

A Hidden Gem for Proposals in Brooklyn Bridge Park: Behind Celestine

As a professional NYC Proposal Photographer who has captured over thousands of proposals since 2012, I’ve learned one important truth—New York’s most iconic spots only get busier with time. The Brooklyn Bridge, DUMBO, and Jane’s Carousel are always filled with tourists and other photoshoots,, making it difficult to plan a private and intimate moment. But what many don’t know is that tucked just behind the restaurant Celestine on Jay Street lies one of Brooklyn Bridge Park’s best-kept secrets for proposals.

For Dylan’s sunset proposal, this hidden spot offered everything we needed: breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan skyline, the World Trade Center, and of course, the sunset over the city. It gave us the perfect balance of iconic NYC scenery while still maintaining a level of privacy that can be hard to find in such a popular area.

For couples planning a proposal in Brooklyn Bridge Park, I always recommend considering this quiet corner behind Celestine. It’s close enough to the heart of DUMBO for post-proposal celebrations, but just far enough to avoid the crowds. With thoughtful planning, you can capture the magic of NYC while keeping the moment truly yours.

If you’re dreaming of a Brooklyn Bridge proposal that blends romance, iconic views, and privacy, this hidden location might be the perfect fit.

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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Central Park Ladies Pavilion Daytime Proposal

Central Park’s Ladies Pavilion is one of those timeless New York spots that feels peaceful no matter how busy the city gets. Nestled along the lake with the skyline peeking through the trees, it’s surrounded by greenery, water, and soft light - especially on a sunny afternoon. For William’s proposal, the weather couldn’t have been better. The couple arrived by the lake under clear skies, the sunlight reflecting off the water and filtering through the leaves. With the Pavilion behind them and the rocks nearby adding that classic Central Park charm, William got down on one knee.

The moment was quiet and full of emotion; just the two of them, the sound of the water, and people passing by in the distance.

After the proposal, we walked around the area capturing portraits along the lake, near the Pavilion, and on the nearby rocks. The sunlight made every photo glow, and the greenery gave each frame that signature Central Park feel.

Why the Ladies Pavilion Is a Perfect Spot for Proposals

The Ladies Pavilion combines everything people love about Central Park - lake views, soft light, and a touch of old New York charm. It’s slightly tucked away, offering privacy while still feeling open and bright.

During the day, the sunlight reflects beautifully off the water, and the surrounding trees create a natural frame for photos. Whether it’s an intimate moment by the lake or a full shoot around the nearby paths and rocks, this location captures both the romance and the energy of the city.

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