7 tips for taking great photos in New York
New York is one of the most photogenic cities in the world. But you need to know the right techniques to make the most of it! Here are my tips for even better photos…
1/ Capture the morning light
For the best photos of the New York skyline, wake up early and shoot before 9:30 am, when the sky is at its most vivid blue. Head to the Brooklyn Bridge or walk along Brooklyn Bridge Park for stunning shots. After 10 am, the light weakens: humidity can wash out the sky, and clouds often roll in.
2/ Photograph streets at midday
New York’s tall buildings cast long shadows over the streets for most of the day. To photograph streets in sunlight, shoot around midday when the sun is highest in the sky. This timing works especially well for capturing Greenwich Village and Times Square in daylight.
3/ Get altitude
Want aerial views like the famous photographer Yann Arthus-Bertrand? Take a helicopter tour over New York with your camera ready. Tours are designed to give you the best shots: a pass over the Statue of Liberty, views of the Financial District, and a flight up the Hudson River for unbeatable panoramas of all Manhattan. You’ll have a blast capturing these aerial perspectives.
For more details, visit the page on helicopter tours over New York.
4/ Get on the water
After the helicopter, a boat is your next essential tool for spectacular photos. You have plenty of options. Start with the Staten Island Ferry, which crosses New York Harbor and gives you excellent views of the Manhattan skyline. The ride is free. You can also add a sailing or motorboat cruise for closer views of the Statue of Liberty and shots under the Brooklyn Bridge. Explore all the options in our guide to cruises in New York.
5/ Chase the sunset
New York sunsets can be spectacular. Here are three top spots to capture them:
- Top of the Rock: This observation deck overlooks nearly all of Manhattan with the Empire State Building in the foreground—a prime sunset location.
- New Jersey: Cross the Hudson River to photograph the orange glow of sunset reflecting off the Manhattan skyline.
- Brooklyn Bridge Park: The iconic Brooklyn Bridge is highly photogenic, especially at dusk when the Financial District lights begin to glow.
6/ Bring a tripod
New York is ideal for night photography—capturing the lights of Times Square, taxis streaking past the Flatiron Building, or skyline views from Brooklyn or New Jersey. A tripod is essential to avoid blur.
Note that tripods are not allowed in observation decks, including Top of the Rock and the Empire State Building. Instead, brace your camera firmly against your bag or a ledge and use the self-timer.
7/ Photograph New Yorkers
New York’s architecture will dazzle you. But many travel photos from the city focus only on buildings and monuments, making it look empty of people. Don’t miss the chance to capture the energy of the Big Apple by photographing New Yorkers. If you’re taking a close portrait, ask permission first—you’ll find most New Yorkers are friendly and happy to chat.