New York City Proposal Ideas:
Best Places for an Epic
Engagement
New York City is a romantic and grand place to propose. There are so many beautiful iconic places full of color and beautiful backdrops. Coming up with great New York City proposal ideas and planning the details may feel like a challenge… there are just so many beautiful places to choose from! But don't let all the details overwhelm you. The most important thing is that your proposal reflects you both as a couple, no matter how casual or grandeur it is.
Whether your style is uber-romantic, unique and eccentric, or private and intimate, we have some great suggestions to help you pick the perfect (and most photogenic!) proposal spot. Below we list some of our favorite marriage proposal ideas, the best places to propose in New York City, as well as our tips on hiring a proposal photographer to capture it all.
What’s on this page?
New York City Proposal Ideas
We've helped so many couples just like you plan and capture this momentous occasion, so we'd like to think we have learned a thing or two along the way. Allow us to give you some pointers.
Your proposal moment is not the best time to wing it. You want your future fiancé to feel like some serious thought went into it - it's a big deal! You have probably already been stressing about the big moment, but take a deep breath and start with our 4 tips to pulling off the perfect New York City proposal:
Finding the Perfect Spot
Our favorite places to propose in New York City are listed below! You have probably already daydreamed about the big moment, and it's important to imagine the type of proposal you want to have - romantic, intimate, adventurous, unique, or casual. Most importantly, your proposal should reflect you both as a couple. Once you have your proposal vibe in mind, you can start thinking about locations.
Keeping the Surprise Alive
Ensuring your proposal in New York City remains a complete surprise is all about having a solid backstory. Discreetly gather information about your schedule and preferences to choose the perfect time and location for the proposal. Refrain from discussing specific plans openly with friends or family, and keep any physical signs of the engagement, such as the ring, well-concealed until the opportune moment to ensure the element of surprise. Don't forget to keep all digital communication secure during the planning process.
The Role of a Secret Proposal Photographer
Communicate clearly with the proposal photographer about the specific moments you want captured, such as the initial reaction or a scenic backdrop. There are two ways you can capture the moment:
Paparazzi-Style Shoot: A proposal photographer in paparazzi style discreetly captures the genuine reactions of the moment, blending into the surroundings with long lenses and strategic angles for an authentic and unposed record of the surprise proposal. To get many shots you might have to re-create the moment during the shoot, which is fun!
Book a Photoshoot and Propose Mid-Shoot: Choosing a pre-planned photoshoot allows for a seemingly ordinary session where the photographer, aware of the impending proposal, subtly guides the couple through poses. When the time is right, the proposer seizes the moment, creating a unique fusion of a professional
Preparing for the Proposal Moment
Practice getting down on one knee beforehand and think about what you will say. You don’t need to have your speech memorized but spend a little time jotting down what you’d like to say. Stick to an idea, not a script. Keep the ring secure and don't forget to finish with: Will you marry me?
Proposal Photographers in New York City
We capture tons of proposals, so we've collaborated with our very own New York City proposal photographers to curate a list of the most romantic and picturesque locations for popping the question. Take a look at the recommended spots below and book your shoot to capture the moment before the date gets booked up!
Best Places To
Propose in New York City
Choosing a gorgeous destination is a great way to start, so you are already on the right track! We see a lot of engagements every week and know the best places to propose in New York City. Check out our list below to start getting some New York City proposal ideas.
Places To Propose In New York City / 01
Brooklyn Bridge & Dumbo
DUMBO stands for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass”. It is one of the most picturesque locations in NYC since you have views of all of Manhattan. The park is also large enough to find a quiet spot for your more private NYC engagement ideas.
Propose and Capture here!
Places To Propose In New York City / 02
Central Park
Our two favorite places to propose in Central Park, NYC are both bridges. First, the Gapstow Bridge is near 62nd street and it has one of the best views of the New York City skyline. You can even take a Gondola ride from here. Also, the Bow Bridge is a great Central Park proposal spot. It was finished in 1862, and they say it resembles the bow of a violinist. If you want to go all out, imagine hiring a flash mob or musicians for your proposal! Here are our other favorite Central Park proposal spots in NYC: Bethesda Terrace & Fountain, Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, Wagner Cove, Cat Rock, and Conservatory Garden.
Propose and Capture here!
Places To Propose In New York City / 03
Top of The Rock
If you want a Rockefeller Center proposal, you can choose from the Top of the Rock or (if it is winter) the ice rink and Christmas tree. These spots create a romantic and iconic backdrop for a marriage proposal in New York City. After popping the big question, you can stroll down 5th Ave for your secret NYC proposal photographer to capture the post-engagement glow.
Propose and Capture here!
Places To Propose In New York City / 04
Edge Observation Deck
The Edge is the highest open-air deck in North America! Proposal at the Edge is easy, and all you need to do is buy tickets for yourselves and your photographer and up you go! The best light is just before sunset when there is a nice shadow on the buildings.
Propose and Capture here!
Places To Propose In New York City / 05
Summit One Vanderbilt
With breathtaking panoramic views of New York City, the location provides a romantic and unforgettable setting for a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Whether you choose to propose on the observation deck or in one of the private event spaces, the sophisticated ambiance and breathtaking views are sure to create a moment that you and your partner will cherish forever.
Propose and Capture here!
Places To Propose In New York City / 06
The High Line
This relatively new pathway was built on the former New York Central Railroad line. It is almost a mile and a half long, so there are plenty of proposal spots along the way with great views of the west side of Manhattan.
Propose and Capture here!
Places To Propose In New York City / 07
Statue of Liberty
There are 2 places to propose here. First, you can grab a cruise (we recommend Statue Cruises) or a private boat and propose on your way to the island. Otherwise, you can climb the 354 steps to Lady Liberty’s crown get engaged on the very top!
Propose and Capture here!
Places To Propose In New York City / 08
Private Places
Maybe you are looking for more intimate NYC engagement ideas? Or you may prefer something simple yet creative? Finding a proposal spot in NYC that is private, quiet, and intimate can be challenging. Here’s some ideas to get you started: private picnic in a quiet area of a park, cater a private dinner and celebration at a luxury Airbnb, rent a boat for a proposal while you cruise on the water, book a private table at your restaurant of choice, and take a private cooking class and propose at dessert.
Propose and Capture here!
Our Clients' Proposal Photography Stories
Alina was an amazing photographer and helped plan our engagement shoot very well. She's professional and very nice. Highly recommend!
– Lety
Hired for New York City Photoshoot
New York City Proposal Photoshoot Packages
Timeless Souvenir
The moment and the yes!
295
USD60 Minute Photoshoot
of the big moment & post-engagement
30 Digital Photos of Your Choice
Beautifully Edited & High-Res
One-on-one Planning
Collaborate with a Local
Private Online Gallery
Active for 6 months
Storyteller
Most Popular!
375
USD90 Minute Photoshoot
of the big moment & post-engagement
45 Digital Photos of Your Choice
Beautifully Edited & High-Res
One-on-one Planning
Collaborate with a Local
Private Online Gallery
Active for 6 months
Sightseer
Get the MOST photos
490
USD2 Hour Photoshoot
of the big moment & post-engagement
60 Digital Photos of Your Choice
Beautifully Edited & High-Res
One-on-one Planning
Collaborate with a Local
Private Online Gallery
Active for 6 months
The above proposal photoshoot pricing is for New York City.
What's included in my photoshoot package?
Peace of Mind
Choose from vetted and highly rated personal photographers. Hassle-free booking and a travel-friendly refund policy.
Expert Photo Editing
All photography is edited for light, color, & composition to make your proposal photos gorgeous.
Local Tips
Your personal photographer also acts as an informal tour guide with all the best photography spots and local secrets for what to see, eat, & do in town.
How To Hire A New York City Proposal Photographer
The moment you reach for the ring, adrenaline and emotions start to kick in and you might not even remember the moment! Hiring a secret New York City proposal photographer for your surprise engagement will allow you to capture and relive that moment again and again.
Your marriage proposal is a story you will never tire of telling, so it definitely deserves better than selfies! Capture it with New York City proposal photography that you'll look back on for years to come.
How does a proposal photoshoot work?
Before choosing a photographer, we recommend having some New York City proposal ideas in mind first! There are two ways a proposal photoshoot usually happens:
- Hire the photographer for a “normal” photoshoot with your partner, but let the photographer in on your secret proposal plan! This is the best way to ensure the photographer captures the moment perfectly, usually at a closer distance and better positioned.
- The photographer can be waiting at the designated spot to secretly capture the moment, paparazzi-style. After the big moment, the photographer can introduce themselves and proceed to capture that post-engagement glow.
After your photo shoot is booked, you will be able to plan and coordinate with your photographer directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a photoshoot cost?
Choose between 3 different packages that range from 60 minutes up to 2 hours. All Local Lens photographers are professionals that were handpicked for quality, style, and skill. There are no separate fees for marriage proposals, but we do require a 1 hour minimum.
How do they capture it? Are they hidden?
Depends on what you want! 1. The photographer can be hidden and ready to capture the moment, paparazzi-style. Afterwards, the photographer will introduce themselves and you both can enjoy a fun engagement photoshoot to capture the post-engagement glow. You might re-create the proposal again just to make sure you get a variety of proposal moment shots. 2. Another option is to book a normal photoshoot (you can say that a family member gifted you a shoot, or ask your SO if they would would want a local tour guide that takes photos) and then during the shoot propose and just the oportune moment in your chosen spot. This method usually results in the best photos. These photos will be perfect for your official engagement announcement, wedding website, save-the-date cards, and wedding invitations!
Can the photographer get flowers, champagne, or displays?
Usually. However, this depends on the photographer’s capacity to handle these details, and those extras will always incur an extra cost that is either paid to another provider or to the photographer directly. Those extras are usually worth it! Ask your photographer if they are able to help with those details and what the extra cost would be.
Can I get all the RAW photos?
How long does it take to get the photos?
Photos are edited for light, color, and composition and delivered in high-resolution JPEG format to you by email in a private online gallery within 5 business days. Your photographer will upload more than the amount of photos included in your photo package so you can pick all your favorites to keep. If you feel there is a certain photo or pose that is missing, we’ll be happy to look into it for you!
Can I purchase more photos or prints?
Yes! From your gallery, you can opt to purchase more digital photos, prints, canvas prints and more all from your gallery. We partnered with Bay Photo, some of the best in the business for professional art quality photography prints.
Can I buy a proposal shoot for someone else?
Yes! Purchasing a gift card is an easy way. You can also make the inquiry and book the photographer and then once you are ready to pass communication off, just change the contact preferences in your Local Lens account and then the photographer will switch over to communicating to the person you select.
Is getting a photographer really worth it?
The moment comes and goes in an instant. The better you capture it, the better you will be able to look back on the memory as the years go by.
Ready to capture the question with beautiful proposal photography?
Inquire NowRelated Posts
Pulling Off the Ultimate Surprise Proposal in New York City
A Beautiful NYC Marriage Proposal Photoshoot
Central Park Proposal: Best Places For an Epic NYC Engagement
DUMBO Marriage Proposal Photoshoot: How One Couple Got the Shot of a Lifetime
Rockefeller Proposal: Top of The Rock or Ice Skating Rink?
