Patrick's Long Island City Engagement Session at Sunset

The Long Island City waterfront captures New York City perfectly with its iconic New York City views; Empire State Building, 59th street bridge, the UN and our famous NYC Sunset/Sunrises. However, what I like most about photographing in Long Island City and Gantry Plaza State Park is how private and intimate this area is when compared to other parts of New York City. Luckily the tourists haven’t figured this out yet!

Tonight’s engagement session with Patrick and Sam during golden hour could not have been any better.

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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Chris' Sunrise Gantry Plaza Surprise Proposal

The Long Island City waterfront captures New York City perfectly because of its iconic New York City views; Empire State Building, 59th street bride, the UN and our famous NYC Sunset/SunriseWhat I like most about photographing surprise marriage proposals in Long Island City and Gantry Plaza State Park is how private and intimate this area is when compared to other parts of New York City.

Why Gantry Plaza is Perfect for a Fall Proposal

Tucked along the East River in Long Island City, Gantry Plaza State Park offers sweeping city views, peaceful waterfront paths, and seasonal charm that comes alive in the fall. The park blends industrial design, natural beauty, and urban energy—all wrapped in the warm colors of autumn.

Here’s what makes it so special:

Vibrant Fall Foliage

• In the fall, Gantry Plaza transforms with vibrant tones of red, orange, and gold, adding warmth and depth to every photo. The contrast between the colorful trees and the sleek Manhattan skyline creates a picture-perfect backdrop that feels uniquely New York.

Iconic Manhattan Views

• Few spots offer such clear, unobstructed views of midtown Manhattan, including landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. During golden hour, the setting sun casts a warm glow across the river, lighting up the skyline—and your moment—in the most romantic way.

Industrial Elegance

• The historic gantries and the famous Pepsi-Cola sign bring a touch of New York’s industrial history to the park. These structures, surrounded by seasonal foliage, create a dramatic and cinematic look that’s perfect for proposal photography.

Peaceful Atmosphere

• Unlike other popular NYC proposal spots, Gantry Plaza in the fall feels quiet, relaxed, and uncrowded, especially during weekday evenings or early mornings. It’s an ideal setting for an intimate moment, away from the typical city chaos.

Let’s Capture Your Fall Proposal in NYC

Fall is one of the most romantic times of year to get engaged, and Gantry Plaza offers everything you could want: colorful scenery, skyline views, and an atmosphere that’s equal parts peaceful and powerful.

As a NYC proposal photographer, I’m here to help you plan the perfect moment—from choosing the right time and location to capturing your story with authenticity and heart.

Ready to propose with the Manhattan skyline and golden leaves behind you? Let’s make it happen.

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

A Golden Hour LIC Gantry Plaza Proposal

Gantry Plaza, Long Island City is the perfect place to capture your surprise proposal and the new york city skyline. There are zero tourists here.

The Long Island City waterfront captures New York City perfectly because of its iconic New York City views; Empire State Building, 59th street bride, the UN and our famous NYC Sunset. What I like most about photographing surprise marriage proposals in Long Island City and Gantry Plaza State Park is how private and intimate this area is when compared to other parts of New York City.

Tips for Planning a Gantry Plaza Proposal

If you’re considering popping the question at Gantry Plaza, here are a few tips to make your moment unforgettable:

• Timing is everything - Sunset is the perfect time for soft, flattering light and dramatic skyline views.

• Scout the spot - There are multiple piers, garden paths, and hidden corners to choose from—each with its own unique view.

• Hire a photographer - Proposals go by in a blur—having someone capture the moment ensures you can relive it forever.

• Celebrate nearby - Long Island City has plenty of cozy restaurants and rooftop bars for a post-proposal toast.

Let’s Capture Your NYC Proposal at Gantry Plaza

Whether you’re planning a surprise proposal or want help mapping out the perfect location and lighting, I’m here to make the process stress-free and special. Gantry Plaza is one of my favorite places to shoot—and one of the best-kept secrets for epic New York City engagement photos.

Ready to plan your unforgettable moment with the Manhattan skyline behind you? Let’s talk.

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

Joseph's Surprise Proposal at Gantry Plaza Proposal in Long Island City

Proposing in Long Island City captures nyc

The Long Island City waterfront captures New York City perfectly because of its iconic New York City views; Empire State Building, 59th street bride, the UN and our famous NYC Sunset. What I like most about photographing surprise marriage proposals in Long Island City and Gantry Plaza State Park is how private and intimate this area is when compared to other parts of New York City.

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

Pascal's Spring Proposal at Gantry Plaza LIC

Gantry Plaza Shows Off NYC Oh So Well!

Pascal and I started planning his proposals week ago. This well before his and Kara’s first visit to New York City from Germany. Since he had never been to Gantry Plaza in Long Island, and only saw photos of it, it was crucial to plan every detail, and make sure he was confident in the plan. I sent pascal a map screenshot of where to go and examples of what his big moment could look like. It could not have gone any better!

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Proposing In Long Island City's Gantry Plaza | Pierre and Allyson

Photographing proposals at night in NYC

As an experienced professional NYC Proposal Photographer I know where you should propose and where you should not propose at night. Long Island City’s Gantry Plaza State Park is 110% where you should propose, day or night, if New York City is a part of your relationship. For Pierre, Gantry Plaza was the spot for him.

LONG ISLAND CITY’S GANTRY PLAZA CAPTURES NEW YORK CITY SO WELL!

Nothing beats a view and nothing beats a view of the New York City skyline, especially when the Empire State Building is positioned dead center of your view. That is why proposing on the piers of Gantry Plaza makes so much sense. If your relationship started or blossomed in New York City, then your big moment should include the city in it as well.

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