30 Best Photo Spots in New York City with Photography Tips 

Best photo spots in Brooklyn, New York

Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of New York’s most iconic landmarks. Walking across it, you’ll get incredible views of Manhattan, the East River, and the bridge’s impressive architecture. The cables and the arches provide a perfect setting for classic New York photos.

Completed in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge was the longest suspension bridge in the world, stretching over 1,595 feet (486 meters) from tower to tower. Also, the bridge’s steel cable design was a groundbreaking innovation at the time.

I am sure you have seen Brooklyn Bridge in countless movies, so adding Brooklyn Bridge to your itinerary is an absolute must. However, considering the popularity of this place, the sunrise mission is a must.

The pedestrian walkway is above the vehicle lanes and can be accessed from Living Memorial Grove on the Manhattan side or from Tillary Street on the Brooklyn side. The walkway is accessible at any time of the day and there is no entrance fee.

Dumbo – Manhattan Bridge View

The DUMBO neighborhood offers one of the most Instagrammable places in New York with the perfect view of the Manhattan Bridge. Creative souls will love the framing of the Empire State Building visible from Washington Street.

This spot is a favorite for photographers because of the unique composition it provides. The cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and the massive steel bridge combine for a perfect New York photo. 

Similarly to Brooklyn Bridge, this place gets packed early, but you can easily combine it with Brooklyn Bridge and other photo spots in Brooklyn and plan a fun morning photoshoot in New York.

Most photographers stay close to Plymouth Street, however, if you have a telephoto lens, you can stay between Front Street and Water Street. I tried both and liked the second option way better, but it works only with a bit of zoom.

Plymouth Street

At the end of the famous Manhattan Bridge View, you will find Plymouth Street, which offers a unique perspective of Brooklyn Bridge. This is such an obvious photo spot, yet most people pass by without taking a photo.

Beyond the views, you can capture the urban vibe of Brooklyn with industrial brick buildings on the side. If you ask me, this is one of the most underrated places in New York for photos. Use your telephoto lens and thank me later!

Pebble Beach

Behind Plymouth Street, you will see a small park that leads you to another important New York photo spot – Pebble Beach. This spot is perfect for landscape photography, with both the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge visible from the beach.

Pebble Beach offers some of the best views of New York, and it simply has to be on your New York postcard bucket list. You might want to hang around for a little longer to soak up the beautiful scenery in front of you.

It’s an ideal location for both day and night photography. It’s especially great for long exposures during the evening when the city lights up. If you have enough time, you should certainly come back for an evening shoot as well.

Old Pier 1

Just a short walk away, you will find Old Pier 1 in Brooklyn Bridge Park. It is another great place to take photos in New York with a stunning view of the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty in the distance. 

This location offers a peaceful setting to capture waterfront NYC photos, and the rows of old wooden pylons create an interesting setting for your shots. In fact, I was surprised to see so many photographers at this spot.

Just like Pebble Beach, this is a great place for sunset photoshoots in New York or long-exposure photography at night. the lights of Manhattan twinkling across the river will take your breath away.

Squibb Park Bridge

Squibb Park Bridge is a lesser-known photo spot in Brooklyn, connecting the scenic Brooklyn Heights neighborhood to Brooklyn Bridge Park. This pedestrian bridge has its own charm and offers an incredible view of New York City. 

The zigzagging wooden structure of Squibb Park Bridge creates a perfect blend of modern design and nature. One of the highlights of Squibb Park Bridge is the view it offers of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.

While there might be a lot of people passing by, there are not many photographers at this location. This means that with a bit of patience, you can get a good shot any time of the day. I have to say that evening is the best time in my opinion.

Best photo spots in Manhattan

Times Square

Times Square is one of the most famous New York Instagram spots, known for its neon lights, massive billboards, and constant activity. The square is always packed, but if you’re looking for vibrant, high-energy New York photos, this is the place to be. 

At night, the bright lights illuminate the streets, creating an electric atmosphere that’s perfect for long-exposure photography. For the best shots, try to capture the scene from the red steps or experiment with different angles to highlight the magnitude of the place.

While you could wake up early, I believe you should embrace the crowds at Times Square instead. After all, the lively atmosphere is just one of the reasons why so many people love this location.

Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is a train station and not only an iconic attraction but also one of the prettiest places in New York for photography. The massive arched windows, the celestial ceiling, and the iconic four-faced clock make this a must-visit spot.

The Main Concourse, with its 125-foot high ceiling, is the heart of the station and one of the most Instagrammable places in New York. The Main Concourse with its 125-foot high ceiling painted with constellations is the heart of the terminal.

The concourse is also home to the terminal’s iconic four-faced opal clock, which stands atop the information booth in the center of the space. The clock’s faces are made of opal, and the structure itself is valued at millions of dollars, so make sure you stop by.

This is yet another location where you will want to embrace the crowds, meaning you can get a good photo any time of the day. Go to the main hall and head to one of the stairs. A wide-angle lens will work like a charm.

You can visit the main hall for free and it doesn’t require a ticket. The train station is open from 5.15 am to 2 am, however, shops and cafes inside the train station have different working hours.

!!! Don’t miss the Whispering Gallery, located near the Oyster Bar, which offers a fun acoustic trick where a whisper can be heard from across the arch. Another hidden gem is the Campbell Apartment, a former private office turned cocktail bar located on the upper level of the terminal.

New York Public Library – Stephen A. Schwarzman Building 

The New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is one of the most iconic libraries in the world. Beyond being a place for books, the library is one of the most Instagrammable places in New York.

Inside, the Rose Main Reading Room is the highlight. Spanning nearly two city blocks, its high ceilings, arched windows, and chandeliers make it a must-visit in NYC. You will need to join a guided tour to visit the Rose Main Reading Room.

Considering that this is a public library, you will want to be discreet with your photos, especially in the Rose Main Reading Room, where locals go to study. For a more relaxed environment, you will want to photograph the exterior of the library as well.

You can visit the New York Public Library for free, and it is accessible to everyone. Even the guided tour to visit the Rose Main Reading Room is free. It is open from Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm and on Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm.

Extra tip! Visit the little sister of New York Public Library – Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL), which is located just around the corner. It offers a fantastic terrace with beautiful New York views completely for free.

Bryant Park

Bryant Park is a true gem in Midtown Manhattan, offering a scenic escape surrounded by some of New York’s most iconic architecture. Nestled among skyscrapers, this park is a peaceful, vibrant space that gives you a little break from the city chaos. 

With the stunning New York Public Library on one side and notable buildings like the Art Deco American Radiator Building towering nearby, Bryant Park gives you the chance to meet history and modernity in a unique setting that makes it a highlight of any NYC visit.

Each season brings new colors and character to the Park. In the spring, the park blooms with flowers, while autumn paints the trees in rich, warm colors, providing endless New York photography opportunities. 

The park is also known for its winter transformation, hosting a holiday market and an ice-skating rink, giving you the chance to capture some iconic NYC Christmas photos. Summer, on the other hand, is the perfect picnic season.

For photographers, Bryant Park is a spot where you can capture classic New York scenes at any time of day. At sunset, the park fills with a warm glow, and in the evening, the lights of the surrounding buildings create a stunning contrast against the night sky.

Oculus Center

The Oculus Center, located at the World Trade Center site in Lower Manhattan, is one of New York’s best modern landmarks. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the structure’s futuristic design resembles a bird in flight.

The interior offers vast white, ribbed space flooded with natural light from the skylight above. The minimalistic design, with clean lines and sharp angles, makes it one of the best New York photography spots.

I have to say that I usually don’t like modern architecture and design. However, Oculus Center took my breath away. Despite the crowds, you can easily get a stunning shot even during the busiest time of the day, which is another bonus.

Bring your wide angle, wear something colorful (avoid white and pastels) and head to the stairs at one of the entrances on Greenwich Street or Church Street. You will see a few stairs and a viewing platform as soon as you enter.

Oculus Center is open 24 hours, seven days per week, but shops and cafes have different working hours. This is another great NY photo spot you can visit for free, so don’t miss it! Especially when visiting Lower Manhattan.

Radio City Music Hall

Radio City Music Hall is one of the most famous entertainment venues in the world. Known for the Rockettes’ legendary performances, this theater has been a central part of New York’s cultural scene since it opened in 1932.

The building’s bright marquee, grand entrance, and luxurious interior make it one of the best photo spots in New York, which means that you will want to stop by and capture the beauty of it. 

While it looks beautiful during the daylight, it gets even better at night. The neon lights and bright signage make it a perfect spot for New York long-exposure photos, so bring your tripod and let your camera do the rest.

Vessel

This extraordinary structure, designed by British architect Thomas Heatherwick, opened to the public in 2019. With its honeycomb design and 154 interconnected staircases, Vessel makes it on the list of the best photo spots in New York.

The vessel’s design is eye-catching and unusual. The structure stands 150 feet tall and is made up of shiny copper-colored steel and glass. Its shape, which narrows at the base and expands outward, creates interesting angles and reflections.

Unfortunately, during our time in New York interior of the Vessel was closed, however, now it is open to the public again. The entrance fee is 10$ for a specific date or 15$ for a flexible ticket. Click here to discover more and purchase your ticket.

Albertine Book Shop

Tucked inside the historic Payne Whitney mansion on Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue, Albertine is a charming French-English bookstore. Part of the French Embassy in New York, Albertine offers one of the most beautiful spaces for book lovers and photographers.

The space is spread across two floors, with the upper level featuring a breathtaking celestial ceiling painted by artist and designer Étienne Moyat. Decorated with constellations and planets, this place is perfect for photography.

Albertine is the only bookstore in New York dedicated entirely to French and Francophone literature, with books available in both French and English. So in case you are looking for a good book for your flight back home, this is the place for you.

You will need to bring your wide-angle lens to truly capture the beauty of this bookshop. When it comes to crowds, this is one of those hidden photo spots in New York, which means that you can get a good photo any time of the day.

It is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm. 

Tudor City Bridge

Tudor City Bridge is a small pedestrian bridge connecting the charming, historic Tudor City neighborhood with the area around the United Nations headquarters. This bridge provides a perfect spot with stunning views of Midtown Manhattan.

It is known for its iconic view of 42nd Street, perfectly framing the Chrysler Building between rows of tall skyscrapers. This composition has made the bridge one of the best photo spots in New York and a favorite location for photographers.

While this location is particularly beautiful during golden hour or after sunset, you can get a great photo any time of the day. I have to say that this spot has gained a lot of popularity, so be prepared.

Unfortunately, we didn’t get to visit Tudor City Bridge due to the international summit. The entire area was closed down for visitors and considering proximity to the United Nations headquarters, I believe it happens often.

However, I still believe it should be on the list of the popular Instagram spots in New York. Even if I didn’t see it with my own eyes, it is all over social media and it definitely deserves a visit.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral sits right in the middle of Midtown, just across from Rockefeller Center. This beautiful cathedral is one of New York’s most famous landmarks, and its grand Gothic architecture really stands out against the modern skyscrapers around it.

Inside, the cathedral has incredible stained-glass windows that cast colorful light across the marble floors and high vaulted ceilings. The atmosphere is really calming, which is surprising for such a busy area.

We visited St. Patrick’s Cathedral right before heading to Top of The Rock. Around 9 am, it was still pretty empty, and with a bit of patience, we could avoid the crowds, however, during the day, this place gets very busy.

It is open every day from 6.45 am to 8.45 pm. There is no entrance fee, so you can visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral for free.

Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park is another iconic photo spot in New York that has been featured in multiple movies and TV shows. It is known for its grand Washington Square Arch that frames Fifth Avenue.

At the center of the park, the fountain area is always buzzing with life. You’ll find street performers, musicians, skateboarders, and locals. The fountain and the arch make it one of the best photo spots in New York, especially around sunset time.

Unlike other places on this list, crowds are part of the charm, and you can spend a lot of time people-watching. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can take a photo of the Washington Square Arch from Fifth Avenue. With a bit of patience, it is pretty easy.

Extra tip! While you are there, make sure you stop by the Washington Mews, which is a cute pedestrian street.

Chinatown

Chinatown in New York City is one of the most colorful and lively neighborhoods you can visit. Located in Lower Manhattan, this area is packed with busy markets, street vendors, and restaurants.

After spending 9 months in Asia, I could see a lot of differences, however, it is definitely a unique place and transports you to a completely different New York. This is why Chinatown must be added to the best New York photo spots.

I recommend you start with Doyers Street and move on to Canal Street. This is the most picturesque area of Chinatown, and you can easily combine it with Little Italy, which is another iconic place in New York.

Stone Street

Stone Street in New York’s Financial District is a historic cobblestone street with old-world charm. Known for its European-style atmosphere, this pedestrian-only street is filled with cozy pubs, restaurants, and outdoor seating areas. 

The low-rise brick buildings and cobbled ground stand out from the skyscrapers surrounding it, making it one of the best photo spots in New York. I recommend visiting this street only during the warm months when the street offers a lively atmosphere.

We visited Stone Street in the early evening, which was perfect to see it lit up and full of energy. It’s free to wander around and a great place to capture New York’s mix of history and modern life.

Best photo spots in Central Park, NYC

Bethesda Terrace 

Bethesda Terrace is famous for being one of the best photo spots in Central Park, and all of NYC. The Terrace is divided into two levels, with the upper one offering a privileged view of the fountain and the park. But the terrace hides even a bigger beauty in its arcade on the lower level. 

Its ceiling is adorned with nearly 14,000 tiles made by the legendary Minton Tile Company. These tiles are unique not only for their artistic beauty but also for being one of the largest installations of Minton tiles in the world.

This setting has made the arcade a popular backdrop for movies and TV series. I am sure that every Gossip Girl fan will recognize this place from the final episode, but this is just one of the endless examples.

Bethesda Terrace is accessible from 6 am to 1 am, and it’s free to enter. However, because it’s such a popular spot, especially for photography, it can become quite crowded, even early in the day, so bring extra patience and a clear vision of the photo that you want to get.

I recommend you use a wide-angle lens for the arcade to capture the ceiling and the arches or a 35 mm lens to capture the arches and the fountain in the back. On the upper level, a zoom lens is ideal to capture the perspective over the fountain and to play with depth of field.

Bethesda Fountain

Just a gasp away from the Bethesda Terrace, you will find the magnificent Bethesda Fountain. This fountain stands as an architectural gem and an Insta-worthy place in New York.

Bethesda Fountain was completed in 1873 and designed by sculptor Emma Stebbins. The fountain represents the biblical healing of a disabled man at Bethesda, and it is also known as the “Angel of the Waters.”

The fountain has appeared in multiple films and TV shows, including Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and Sex and the City. It even inspired the playful intro of Friends, where the cast famously dances around in a fountain. 

This makes it a fun mix of artistry and pop culture significance and has turned the fountain into a must-visit spot in New York for tourists and locals. Similarly to Bethesda Terrace, you will need to visit the fountain early in the day.

The Mall & Literary Walk

If you are passionate about movies and TV series, this is another location you can’t miss to snap your iconic NYC postcard. This walkway has been featured in films such as Vanilla Sky, Kramer vs. Kramer, and Maid in Manhattan.

It is one of Central Park’s most famous landscapes and a real horticultural wonder. The two rows of American elm trees shape a promenade and gathering space that has preserved its timeless charm since the 19th century.

An early visit is recommended if you want to avoid crowds. However, for a more dynamic experience, consider visiting later in the day when the path fills with people walking their dogs, musicians, and street performers, giving the scene a lively, urban charm.

Bow Bridge

Bow Bridge is one of Central Park’s most iconic and photographed landmarks, with its Victorian style and romantic charm. The bridge’s shape represents an archer’s bow, giving it an instantly recognizable silhouette.

Designed by Calvert Vaux and Jacob Wrey Mould, Bow Bridge is a mix of Classical Greek refinement with Gothic, Neo-Classical, and Renaissance design elements. This architectural blend makes it stand out as a true gem of Central Park. 

Bow Bridge is also a hot spot for couples: it often serves as the place for wedding proposals, romantic strolls, and even wedding photography. Overlooking the lake, it offers picturesque views of rowboats framed by the impressive Manhattan skyline in the distance.

In addition to being a real-life romantic meeting point, Bow Bridge has made frequent appearances in film and television. Classic films like Manhattan, The Way We Were, and Keeping the Faith have all captured its charm.

For the best experience, plan a visit early in the day to capture the soft morning light reflecting off the water. 

Belvedere Castle

Belvedere Castle is one of Central Park’s most recognizable landmarks. It combines architecture with panoramic views that make it a perfect destination for photographers. The name “Belvedere” comes from the Italian “Beautiful View,” fitting perfectly for this purpose. 

Perched on the top of a rock, the castle was designed by Central Park co-creator Calvert Vaux to serve as a lookout for visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Though it might be one of New York’s lesser-known Instagram spots, Belvedere Castle offers some of the best views in Central Park. From its terraces, you can look out over the Great Lawn and the Turtle Pond. The castle also houses one of Central Park’s visitor centers.

For photographers, Belvedere Castle provides multiple unique viewing points. Capturing the castle from Turtle Pond with a zoom lens gives you the chance to get a dramatic view of the castle and a mix of Modern and old architecture.

Climbing up to the castle’s terrace opens up panoramic views and offers another excellent photo opportunity. Morning light or late afternoon are the best moments to snap an iconic Central Park postcard.

Extra photo spot in Central Park

Don’t miss this hidden photo spot in Central Park, which offers a unique view of the San Remo Apartment building and the Lake. This is particularly stunning during fall foliage considering the beautiful scenery around.

It is not indicated on Google Maps, so it might be a bit tricky to find, but I am here to help you with that. If you are walking from the Bethesda Fountain, cross the Bow Bridge and look to your left. The second path is the place to be and I am sure you won’t miss it!

Best views of New York

New York City’s skyline is iconic, and some of the best ways to take it all in are from the observation decks scattered around Manhattan. Each spot offers a unique perspective on the city’s landmarks, bridges, and the busy streets below.

Considering the limited time in New York, we decided to pick just one observatory in New York and we quickly came to the conclusion that Top of the Rock would be the best choice for us. Mostly, thanks to the iconic view of the Empire State Building.

We booked the first available time slot and arrived at the Rockefeller Center 10 minutes before the opening time. After a mini tour and short film, you are taken to an elevator and can wander off on your own. Once you arrive at the top, you will find three upper floors.

I recommend you skip the first floor and head directly to the second floor while your photographer goes to the 3rd floor. This way you can easily avoid the crowds as everyone is busy exploring the first floor (which is the least impressive one, but still worth a visit afterward!).

Top of the Rock is open every day from 8 am to 12 am. The entrance fee is 44 USD with available add-ons. Please make sure to book your time slot in advance, especially if you are visiting during the high season.

Other observatories for amazing New York views:

• Empire State Building Main Deck | from 44 USD | Get your tickets here
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt | from 46 USD | Get your tickets here
• Edge NYC | from 40 USD | Get your tickets here
• One World Trade Center | from 44 USD | Get your tickets here

More New York Instagram spots

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is the icon of New York and simply has to be added to the best photo spots in New York. Standing on Liberty Island, just a short ferry ride from Lower Manhattan, this massive statue was designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and gifted by France.

While standing near the statue is awe-inspiring, it’s often at its most photogenic from the water. Capturing it from the ferry or a boat—especially with a telephoto lens—gives you the classic view, framed by the city and the harbor.

Staten Island Ferry offers fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty, and you can take it for free. Just head to Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan and board the first available ferry. You can either visit Staten Island after or take the next available ferry back to Manhattan.

The ride takes approximately 25 minutes, and you will want to stay on the right side of the ferry on the way to Staten Island. You will also love the views of Lower Manhattan from the back of the ferry.

Roosevelt Island and Roosevelt Island Tramway

Roosevelt Island is a narrow strip of land in the East River, right between Manhattan and Queens, offering some of the best views of New York from a unique perspective.

Once on the island, there’s a peaceful vibe that’s a nice change from the busy city. At the southern tip, you’ll find the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park with open lawns, granite walkways, and views of the Manhattan skyline, especially stunning at sunset.

To get to Roosevelt Island, you will want to hop on the Roosevelt Island Tramway, which is a unique cable car that offers fantastic views of Manhattan. It is part of public transport, so you can use your daily ticket or a single ticket.

In conclusion…

This is the end of the best photo spots in New York! I’m sure you are impatient to get to New York and create some unforgettable postcards. I believe that these photography tips will help you take epic photos and find the exact locations of the best photo spots in New York. 

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

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