Capturing Fall Graduation Photos at Columbia University

Hiring an experience, professional photographer ensures you get more than just snapshots and a few lucky photos —you get a professional, top tier NYC experience that highlights your personality, accomplishments, and the essence of New York City in every photos. Having captured countless NYC graduation photos since 2012, I have firsthand experience scouting the perfect locations, the do’s and do not’s of posing, and knowing proper lighting. Hiring a professional photographer makes your graduation photoshoot stress-free and worth while.

I specialize in creating timeless portraits that celebrate your achievements in iconic New York City settings. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing Hana’s Fall 2025 graduation from Columbia University. Capturing a grad session in the fall present a lot of unique opportunities; fall foliage, fall lighting, and 0 competition with others on their graduation shoot.

Book Your Session Today!

Ready to celebrate your graduation with stunning professional photos? As a dedicated professional graduation photographer in NYC, I’ll guide you through every step—from location scouting, to selecting the right time of the day for lighting and crowds, to helping you pose.

• How many photos do I get

  All of the photos I capture are 100% yours! The # of photos you receive is related to how responsive you are to taking photos.

  Most photographers only deliver their top 20-30 photos, and then they up charge for the rest. They do this, so they don’t have to edit everything. I give you everything edited, and full-resolution. I want you to have it all!

• What is required for booking a session?

  
  I require a 50% deposit and signed contract to secure your grad session on my calendar.

• AccordWILL YOU HELP me WITH POSING finding and a location

  YES! This aint my first rodeo and most likely this is your first time working with a photographer. The most common feedback I hear is how much my client's appreciate my direction and prior experience!

Where to Propose in Central Park Without Crowds - Bridge #27

Bridge #27 sits tucked away at the southern edge of the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir far from the heavy traffic of Bow Bridge or Bethesda Terrace. While other iconic Central Park bridges dominate your instagram feed, this lesser-known location wins for privacy, a view, and storytelling—all critical for an intimate proposal in New York City’s most popular park. Bridge #27 is not about proposing in the the most famous spot—it’s about creating the best experience and timeless images.

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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Orbis Gala 2025 at the Rainbow Room

The 2025 Orbis Gala took place at the Rainbow Room at Rockefeller Center, raising funds for Orbis’s mission to deliver eye care and training around the world through its Flying Eye Hospital program. The evening combined purpose and elegance, with guests gathering high above the city for a night dedicated to global impact.

We began the evening photographing the step and repeat as guests arrived, followed by coverage of the cocktail hour, honoree presentations, and speeches throughout the night. As the sun set over Manhattan, the atmosphere of the Rainbow Room transformed — soft daylight gave way to the venue’s signature purple uplighting, creating a dramatic contrast against the 360° skyline view.

In addition to documenting key moments, we focused on candid interactions and small group portraits throughout the evening. From guests connecting during cocktails to the emotional moments on stage, our goal was to capture both the spirit and story of the night.

For every event — whether it’s a gala like this or a smaller corporate celebration — we work closely with clients to identify key people and moments in advance. That preparation ensures each gallery reflects both the energy of the evening and the people behind it.

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A Proposal at Bridge No. 27 in Central Park

Some of the best proposal locations in Central Park are the ones most people walk past without noticing. Bridge No. 27 is one of those locations—a quieter bridge tucked into the park with lake views, surrounding greenery, and far fewer crowds than many of the better-known proposal spots.

Jason proposed here in late October, when the fall colors around the lake had just started to shift. The bridge itself created a clean, symmetrical setting while still feeling relaxed and understated.

Planning and Capturing the Moment

• Proposal location: Bridge No. 27 in Central Park

• Backdrop: Lake views, trees, and early fall color

• Time of day: Late October

• Focus: A quieter, lesser-known Central Park setting

The structure of the bridge naturally framed the couple while keeping the surrounding landscape visible in the background.

Why Bridge No. 27 Works for a Marriage Proposal in Central Park

• Less crowded than many iconic Central Park proposal locations

• Open lake and greenery views

• A more private atmosphere without leaving the main areas of the park

For couples planning a marriage proposal in Central Park, locations like Bridge No. 27 offer a balance between privacy and classic New York scenery.

Planning a Central Park proposal?
Finding the right location often comes down to balancing privacy, scenery, and timing. Reach out to work with a New York City proposal photographer and plan a proposal that feels personal and natural.

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

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 warm October afternoon.

For this proposal, the couple arrived on the balcony during the ballet’s intermission. We carefully planned they’d enjoy the intermission and as everyone went back to the hall they’d stay back. As the balcony finally emptied out, he got down on one knee. It was a simple, confident moment - no elaborate setup, just genuine emotion and the energy of the city around them.

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. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING A PROPOSAL PHOTOGRAPHER IN NYC

Gapstow Bridge Golden Hour Proposal

Gapstow Bridge is one of Central Park’s most photographed spots, and for good reason. With its stone arch, view of the city skyline and iconic Plaza Hotel, and the reflection of trees in the water, it captures that perfect balance of nature and New York City, very “NYC Central Park”.

For this proposal, the timing was perfect. It was early fall, first thing in the morning (no crowds) ,and the light was golden—soft, warm, and just starting to rise high in the sky.

As the sunlight peaked above the city buildings Juan arrived to the Gapstow Bridge. After a few moments, he proposed. The moment was so simple, and genuine! With the park glowing in those first hints of autumn color I was really, really excited for what’s to come. After she said yes, they stayed for portraits around the bridge, the water, and the nearby paths. The golden light reflected off the leaves and water, giving every photo a soft, glowing tone that only happens this time of year.

Why Gapstow Bridge Is a Classic NYC Proposal Spot

Gapstow Bridge offers one of the most recognizable views in Central Park, combining the park’s natural beauty with the city skyline. During golden hour, the light filters through the trees and reflects across the pond, creating a warm, romantic atmosphere that’s ideal for proposals and portraits.

Its location near the southeast corner of the park makes it easy to access, yet it still feels quiet and secluded—especially in the early evening. Whether it’s a summer sunset or an early fall afternoon, Gapstow Bridge always delivers that timeless Central Park backdrop.

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