Top 12 NY/NJ Engagement shoot locatioNS

Congrats on your upcoming engagement shoot.  Choosing a location is often a concern for some couples, so we are hoping this post will help ease some of that decision making anxiety.  

My biggest piece of advice is to not overthink the location - the photos are about you, but if there is a spot that holds sentimental value to you as a couple, we should go there, or somewhere similar.  If you are outdoorsy, a park or a garden, or even a hike would be the perfect spot.  If you are more city-people, then an immediate NYC suburb or one of the 5 boroughs would probably be the ideal choice.

Here are some of my favorite spots to shoot in and around NJ and NY.

Liberty State Park

LSP is a great option to get several different looks.  The park has city views, park walks, and the old train station - which all provide their own unique backdrops.  There are no permit fees, but it can get crowded on weekends.  Perfect for couples who might live in Jersey City, Hoboken, or NYC - or for anyone who loves to see the skyline. 

Asbury Park

Asbury Park offers a unique and vibrant backdrop for an engagement shoot. Known for its eclectic atmosphere, beautiful beach, and iconic landmarks, Asbury Park provides plenty of opportunities for capturing memorable moments. Here are some ideas for your engagement shoot in Asbury Park:

1. Asbury Park Boardwalk: Start your shoot on the famous Asbury Park Boardwalk. Capture moments as you stroll hand in hand, with the beach on one side and vibrant shops, restaurants, and attractions on the other. The boardwalk's colorful murals and vintage architecture can serve as interesting backdrops for your photos.

2. Asbury Park Beach: Take advantage of the beautiful beach for your engagement shoot. Capture romantic moments on the sandy shores, against the backdrop of the crashing waves and expansive ocean. Consider incorporating beach props like blankets, umbrellas, or beach balls to add a playful touch to your photos.

3. The Stone Pony: The Stone Pony, a legendary music venue, is a landmark of Asbury Park's rock 'n' roll history. Capture moments near its iconic exterior or against the backdrop of its famous stage mural. This location adds a cool and edgy vibe to your engagement shoot.

4. Sunset at Sunset Park: Head to Sunset Park to capture breathtaking sunset shots. This elevated park offers panoramic views of the ocean and Asbury Park's skyline. The warm, golden light during sunset creates a romantic and dreamy atmosphere for your photos.

5. Convention Hall: Convention Hall is a historic building with an impressive façade and unique architectural details. Incorporate this landmark into your shoot, either outside or inside, to add a touch of vintage charm and grandeur to your photos.

6. Asbury Park Murals: Asbury Park is known for its vibrant street art and murals. Explore the city's streets and alleys to find colorful and eye-catching murals that can serve as unique and artistic backdrops for your engagement shoot.

Jersey Shore

Asbury isn’t the only beach town.  NJ offers plenty of shoreline to do some really great shots.  LBI, Belmar, and Point Pleasant are just a few of the spots.  If the shore has meaning in your relationship, this is a perfect option!  It is always a good idea to end the shoot with an ice cream cone!

Skylands - Botanical Gardens - Ringwood, NJ

This is probably my favorite place to shoot. I used to go up there as a kid and just wander the grounds with my camera, taking photos of the flowers and the landscape. The Botanical Gardens require a permit to shoot , but I have one - so nothing is needed on your end.  The Gardens offer a perfect backdrop in every season - with flowers in the summer and beautiful foliage come fall.  Beyond the gardens, there are several walking paths, brick work, an old mansion which is also a wedding venue, and water features.  Something for everyone!  The sunsets up there are also breathtaking.

Branch Brook Park

Branch Brook Park in Newark, New Jersey is a stunning location for an engagement shoot. With its picturesque landscapes and beautiful cherry blossom trees, you'll have a wonderful backdrop for your photos. Branch Brook Park features several bridges that add character and charm to your photos. The stone bridges, such as the Branch Brook Bridge and the Cathedral Bridge, create a timeless and romantic backdrop for your engagement shoot.

central park

Central Park in New York City is a quintessential location for an engagement shoot. With its vast green spaces, iconic landmarks, and picturesque views, there are plenty of options to create beautiful and memorable photos. Bethesda Terrace and Fountain: Start your shoot at Bethesda Terrace, one of the most famous spots in Central Park. The elegant terrace, adorned with intricate tile work and a grand staircase, provides a stunning backdrop. Capture moments on the terrace, under the arcade, and by the Bethesda Fountain, with its Angel of the Waters statue.

hello brooklyn!

Brooklyn offers a vibrant and eclectic backdrop for an engagement shoot. With its unique neighborhoods, stunning views, and iconic landmarks, there are numerous possibilities for capturing beautiful moments. Here are some ideas for your Brooklyn engagement shoot:

1. DUMBO: Start your shoot in DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), known for its cobblestone streets and breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Capture moments on the iconic Washington Street, with the Manhattan Bridge in the background, or along the waterfront at Brooklyn Bridge Park.

2. Brooklyn Bridge: The Brooklyn Bridge itself is an iconic landmark and a popular spot for engagement shoots. Capture moments as you walk across the bridge, with the stunning views of Manhattan and the East River as your backdrop.

3. Brooklyn Heights Promenade: Head to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. The tree-lined pathway and benches provide a romantic setting for capturing intimate moments.

Cross Estate Garden

Cross Estate Gardens, located in Bernardsville, New Jersey, is a beautiful and enchanting location for an engagement shoot. With its meticulously manicured gardens, charming pathways, and historic ambiance, you'll have a stunning backdrop for your photos. Here are some ideas to make the most of your engagement shoot at Cross Estate Gardens:

1. Formal Gardens: Explore the formal gardens at Cross Estate, featuring intricate designs, beautiful flower beds, and well-maintained hedges. Capture romantic moments amidst the colorful blooms and classic garden architecture.

2. Wisteria Pergola: The wisteria-covered pergola at Cross Estate Gardens is a breathtaking feature that adds a touch of whimsy and romance to your photos. Pose beneath the fragrant wisteria vines and let their cascading blooms create a magical setting.

3. Stone Walls and Pathways: The stone walls and pathways throughout the estate offer unique textures and backgrounds for your engagement shoot. Use them as a backdrop or incorporate them into your poses, creating an old-world charm in your photos.

Deep Cut Gardens

Deep Cut Gardens, located in Middletown, New Jersey, is a beautiful and serene location for an engagement shoot. With its expansive gardens, lush landscapes, and stunning floral displays, you'll have a picturesque backdrop for capturing memorable moments. Here are some ideas for your engagement shoot at Deep Cut Gardens:

1. Rose Garden: The Rose Garden at Deep Cut Gardens is a highlight of the park, featuring a variety of roses in different colors and varieties. Capture romantic moments surrounded by the vibrant blooms and their intoxicating fragrance.

2. Formal Gardens: Explore the formal gardens at Deep Cut, which include beautifully manicured lawns, symmetrical hedges, and elegant sculptures. These classic garden elements create a timeless and sophisticated backdrop for your engagement photos.

3. Perennial Garden: The Perennial Garden at Deep Cut Gardens showcases a wide array of perennial flowers and plants, offering a burst of color and texture. Use the vibrant blooms and lush foliage as a backdrop for your romantic shots.

Hoboken

Hoboken, New Jersey, is a charming city with a mix of urban and waterfront settings, making it an ideal location for an engagement shoot. Here are some ideas to make the most of your engagement shoot in Hoboken:

1. Pier A Park: Start your shoot at Pier A Park, a scenic waterfront park with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. Capture romantic moments with the iconic backdrop of the city skyline and the Hudson River.

2. Hoboken Waterfront Walkway: Take a stroll along the Hoboken Waterfront Walkway, which spans the length of the city's waterfront. This pathway offers various vantage points for capturing beautiful photos with the Manhattan skyline as your backdrop.

3. Washington Street: Washington Street is Hoboken's main thoroughfare, lined with charming brownstones, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. Explore this bustling street and capture candid moments as you walk hand in hand.

4. Hoboken Train Terminal: The Hoboken Train Terminal is a historic and iconic landmark. Incorporate its beautiful architecture and grandeur into your engagement shoot for a touch of elegance.

5. Elysian Park: Elysian Park is a peaceful and verdant park with tree-lined paths and a lovely gazebo. Capture intimate moments among the greenery and enjoy the park's serene atmosphere.

6. Hoboken Murals: Hoboken boasts a vibrant street art scene, with colorful murals adorning buildings throughout the city. Seek out these artistic gems and incorporate them into your engagement shoot for a unique and urban touch.

Verona Park

Verona Park is another great park option, featuring bridges, walking paths, and a big lake.  If you time it right you can even go out on one of the paddle boats.  Verona Park sunsets are unbeatable and there is a vast open field to get some unforgettable views.

Sayen Garden House

The Sayen House and Gardens, also known as Sayen Park Botanical Garden, is a beautiful public garden located in Hamilton Township, New Jersey.. It features lush gardens, serene walking paths, and a historic house. Explore the various sections of the gardens to find the most picturesque spots for your engagement shoot. Some highlights include the Rose Garden, featuring over 100 varieties of roses, the Japanese Garden with its serene atmosphere and water features, and the Perennial Garden with its vibrant blooms.