Hello! I am Tyler Lyons, creator behind Scratch Studios, an award-winning wedding and lifestyle photography company based in New York City. Today’s post provides some insight into what I consider to be the top ten locations for New York City wedding photography.

1. Central Park

First on the list has to be Central Park! Located between the Upper West and Upper East sides of Manhattan, Central Park is the most visited urban park in the United States, and the most filmed location in the world. Main attractions within the park include the Ramble and Lake, Sheep Meadow, Central Park Carousel, Belvedere Castle, Conservatory Garden, the Pond and Gapstow Bridge, providing stunning views of Midtown Manhattan, and iconic New York wedding photos.

2. Long Island City (Gantry State Park + Hunter’s Point South)

Long Island City is another excellent location loved by NYC wedding photographers. A former manufacturing epicenter, it is known for its gleaming high-rises and views of Manhattan, art galleries and performance spaces. Gantry Plaza State Park and Hunters Point South are located along the waterfront; and are excellent spots for candid and first look wedding photos.

3. Carl Schurz Park (Upper East Side)

Carl Schurz Park in the glamorous Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan has beautiful views of the East River, as well as the Roosevelt Island Lighthouse, Triborough Bridge, Randall’s and Wards islands, and the Gracie Mansion. This is one of my favorite locations for romantic wedding photographs.

4. Prospect Park, Brooklyn

Prospect Park is home to the borough’s last remaining forest and only lake; and is my favorite Brooklyn wedding photography site. The Picnic House and Boathouse are historic settings with scenic views, both beautiful places for New York wedding photos.

5. South Seaport District

The Seaport District in Lower Manhattan was formerly an 1800s fishing port, with views of the city skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. Home of historic ships, landmark buildings, and three piers, there are so many unique and exciting locations for engagement and wedding photos here!

6. Tribeca

Tribeca offers spectacular views of the Hudson River along its western border, beautiful architecture, lots of greenery and outdoor spaces. The Hudson River Park has excellent views of the skyline across the river, providing an amazing backdrop for wedding photographs. The Oculus is another great spot to check out, too!

7. Soho + Washington Square Park

Soho and Washington Square Park are spectacular locations for authentic New York wedding photographs. The park is well known by its arch honoring George Washington, and its fountains, with several other monuments and facilities, gorgeous trees and green spaces. Soho boasts the greatest collection of cast-iron architecture in the world. Known for its cobblestone streets, restaurants, galleries and boutiques, Soho is a stunning atmospheric backdrop for authentic, energetic, and candid photographs.

8. Theatre District

The Theatre District, Times Square. Most Broadway theaters are located in the Theater District, with many city landmarks and iconic locations for stunning photographs. Times Square is one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions, and the site of the annual New Year’s Eve ball drop. Embrace your inner performer during your session!

9. West Village

West Village is one of my favorite locations in Manhattan for engagement sessions and wedding portraits. Beautiful classic townhouse architecture creates a beautiful backdrop of warm brick tones, complimented particularly well during fall/autumn. West Village highlights include the High Line Park, Hudson River Park and Whitney Museum of American Art. These locations provide breathtaking backdrops for exciting, colorful New York wedding photographs.

10. Dumbo, Brooklyn

To round out my personal top ten favorite engagement + wedding portrait photography locations in New York City, I have to go with Dumbo, Brooklyn! Dumbo offers a huge variety of different backdrops, including a beautiful view of Manhattan, pebble beach, Jane’s Carousel, industrial boho looks, and so much more. Pro tip: end your session with some shots on the infamous Brooklyn Bridge, and aim to get that precious golden hour light.

if you are looking for romantic, warm, authentic and energetic new york wedding photos, please drop me a line below!

Learn more