A Morning Proposal on Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island offers one of the most unique perspectives of New York City — skyline views, riverfront walkways, and calm morning light. On this late October morning, the trees along the waterfront had turned a soft yellow, framing the skyline beautifully. Across the East River, the iconic Pepsi-Cola sign glowed gently in the background, adding that perfect NYC touch to the scene.

The couple arrived just as the light softened over the river. It was quiet and peaceful. He got down on one knee with the skyline stretching behind them, capturing that magical blend of calmness and city energy that makes Roosevelt Island so special.

Planning and Capturing the Surprise

This proposal was timed perfectly for the morning light. The soft sun reflecting off the East River brought out the colors of the fall foliage and gave the skyline a warm golden tone. After the proposal, we walked along the waterfront for portraits — with the yellow leaves, river views, and the Pepsi-Cola sign providing a quintessentially New York backdrop.

It was a simple and genuine moment — full of emotion, laughter, and the quiet beauty of a fall morning in the city.

Why Choose Roosevelt Island for a Proposal

For couples looking for a peaceful yet distinctly New York setting, Roosevelt Island is a hidden gem. The riverwalk offers unobstructed skyline views, open space, and seasonal colors that make every photo feel alive.

Whether you’re drawn to the view of Midtown Manhattan, the charm of the tramway, or the soft light that hits the island in the morning, Roosevelt Island provides the perfect mix of privacy and iconic scenery for a proposal that feels both intimate and timeless.

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 the 2025 We Are All Human Foundation Gala at Cipriani Wall Street

NYC Corporate Event Photography | Multi-Camera Remote Coverage = The Best Gala Photos

In October, the We Are All Human Foundation gathered in New York City for its 2025 Annual Gala—an inspiring celebration of global unity, leadership, and impact. Hosted at Cipriani Wall Street, the event brought together leaders from business, government, and philanthropy at the conclusion of a week-long conference held across New York City celebrating Hispanic Leadership.

And this year, our team did something most corporate event photographers do at a gala: We positioned multiple remote-mounted cameras throughout the venue. This allowed us to captured wide shots and zoomed in close ups from unique positions that would be difficult and time consuming to access throughout the night. The result? Dynamic, coverage from every angle without disrupting the flow of the evening or missing key moments (I.e. Awards being given out, the live auction, guests reactions). Besides candids and wide photos from above, we gathered key individuals for group photos and watched for the moments that defined the evening by being present amongst attendees on the ground.

The Key gala moments we captured

When working with new clients and existing clients we always go in to an event with a “shot list”. These are the key moments and people we know the client wants captured. From there, we learn who is who using LinkedIn and throughout the night we are checking each item off of our list.

• Inspiring speeches from global leaders

• A live auction led by the exceptional auctioneer team at J. Towers Perkins

• High-energy Cirque du Soleil performances honoring their CEO

• Award presentations and honoree moments

• Elegant cocktail receptions & networking

• Branded press and media activations

• Candid emotional reactions and guest interactions

• The step and repeat

From the emotional standing ovations to the high-flying acrobatics overhead, this gala was a fusion of elegance, excitement, and purpose—and our imagery reflects that. As a NYC corporate event photographer, I’m passionate about capturing elevated moments for global brands, nonprofits, and forward-thinking organizations—especially when we can combine creativity and technology to deliver exceptional coverage.

If you’re planning a NYC gala, corporate summit, awards ceremony, or multi-day conference, let’s talk about how we can bring your event to life—on camera and beyond.

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Matt's Sunday Afternoon Central Park Fall Proposal behind the Bow Bridge

A Fall Central Park Proposal in The Ramble

There is nothing quite like a fall proposal in Central Park in late October. As a New York City Proposal Photographer, I’ve photographed countless magical moments and it really is true that each proposal is actually unique. Matt’s late-afternoon proposal in The Ramble, with Bow Bridge glowing behind the couple, was something truly unique and one of the proposals I’ll reference for a long, long time.

Planning the Perfect Central Park Proposal

Central Park is one of the most romantic places in NYC to propose—especially in autumn. It can also be one of the busier places in the city outside of Times Square. Before the big moment, Matt and I worked closely together to plan everything:

• Location: The Ramble with Bow Bridge as the backdrop

• Timing: Last afternoon for warm lighting

• How: They’d be walking to the boat house for their reservation for drinks. Matt would ask me for a cellphone photo on their iPhone. I’d take the photo, he’d propose, and I’d quickly rip my camera up from my side to capture their moment.

Capturing the Proposal

Late-afternoon in fall means gorgeous golden light—but also dramatic sun angles and shadows. With the sun low behind the couple, the lighting was challenging and constantly shifting. I moved intentionally around them as Matt got down on one knee, shooting into the sun while balancing bright highlights and soft autumn tones.

Planning Your Central Park Proposal?

Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet wooded hideaway or an iconic Manhattan skyline view, proposing in Central Park is always unforgettable. With thoughtful planning, great light, and a little help navigating crowds, your NYC proposal can be just as magical as Matt’s.

If you’re planning a proposal in Central Park or anywhere across New York City, I’d be delighted to help you plan and capture your special moment beautifully.

Jonathan Heisler Photography is comprised of Professional New York City photographers specializing in photographing private NYC proposals, as well as engagement sessions and weddings.

A Sunny Afternoon Proposal in Fort Tryon Park

Daniel chose a warm, sunny late-October afternoon for his proposal in Fort Tryon Park, one of the most beautiful and underrated spots in Manhattan. The garden paths were bathed in glowing — golden leaves mixed with vibrant greenery, creating the perfect balance of fall color and warm air. On a quiet path amongst the garden, Daniel got down on one knee. The moment was as perfect at the Fort Tryon Heather Garden, peaceful, intimate, and beautiful.

Planning and Capturing the Moment

Daniel wanted a space that felt natural, calm, and full of color. He also wanted a place that would provide them with a day of activities. First they went to the MET Cloisters and then they’d explort Fort Tryon Park. We coordinated the timing of the day, the plan, and the location he’d propose in. After the proposal, we explored nearby spots in the park for staged portraits. The combination of fall foliage, bright sun, and natural textures created a dreamy, glowing set of images that brought out the warmth of the entire moment.

Why Fort Tryon Park Is a Beautiful Proposal Location

Fort Tryon Park has a unique kind of charm with its lush gardens, stone architecture, and some of the quietest, most intimate corners in the city. In late October, the mix of golden fall tones and lingering greenery makes it especially photogenic.

It’s a perfect location for couples who want a nature-filled proposal without leaving Manhattan. The light, the colors, and the calm atmosphere all come together to create a setting that is both romantic and timeless.

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

Andrew's Fall Engagement Photos in Gantry Plaza State Park, Long Island City

A NYC Engagement Photographer’s Guide to an Quiet Waterfront Location

Fall in New York City brings cool temperatures (no sweating), golden leaves, and the perfect backdrop for engagement photos with context. Fall also brings the the perfect light, which makes for great photos. And when it comes to breathtaking skyline views, beautiful waterfront light, and a mix of lush foliage with a city view, Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City is one of my go-to locations for engagement sessions.

So, why Choose Gantry Plaza for Your Engagement Photos?

Manhattan Skyline Views

If you want iconic city photos without the crowds of Manhattan, Gantry Plaza is unbeatable. With sweeping views of the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and Midtown skyline, the backdrop is perfect

NYC Waterfront

The park’s piers and riverside boardwalks create a peaceful, open-sky feel—perfect for sunset sessions and early morning when the skyline glows and the light wraps beautifully around you. F

Fall Foliage Meets Urban Texture

Gantry Plaza offers the perfect balance—colorful fall leaves and city architecture. From tree-lined walkways to industrial gantries, you get diversity in your photos without ever leaving the park. In autumn, the golden tones pop against the steel and skyline.

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 Fall Proposal at the Ladies Pavilion

Late October in Central Park offers one of the most beautiful backdrops for a New York City proposal. The Ladies Pavilion, overlooking the lake, was surrounded by golden fall foliage as boats drifted across the water. On a crisp autumn day, with the trees at their peak color, he proposed on the rock just beside the Pavilion — a spot that perfectly captured the park’s timeless beauty.

Planning and Capturing the Surprise

This proposal was planned to combine a scenic fall setting and an iconic Central Park location. Daylight reflected softly off the lake, enhancing the vibrant reds and oranges of the surrounding trees. After the proposal, we explored nearby paths for portraits that highlighted both the couple’s excitement and the colorful autumn landscape. Their friends later joined to celebrate, and we captured joyful group portraits surrounded by the peak fall colors.

Why Choose the Ladies Pavilion for a Proposal

The Ladies Pavilion offers a classic Central Park scene with privacy, character, and an unbeatable view of the lake. In the fall, it’s especially stunning — surrounded by changing leaves, calm water, and the gentle sound of boats passing by. It’s an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic and authentic New York City backdrop, free from the heavy crowds.

If you’re planning a proposal in Central Park or anywhere across New York City, I’d be delighted to help you plan and capture your special moment beautifully.

Jonathan Heisler Photography is comprised of Professional New York City photographers specializing in photographing private NYC proposals, as well as engagement sessions and weddings.