Exploring NYC with Your Family: Best photoshoot locations.

Exploring NYC with Your Family: Best photoshoot locations.

Traveling to NYC is an incredible experience, with its many historic buildings, museums, shopping, and world-class dining. Not only does New York offer a broad variety of places to visit, it also the perfect place to capture some updated family portraits! Why not embrace this fun vacation and include a photoshoot while you’re here?  Let’s find out how you can find enrich your vacation experience by including a photographer to tag along.

A family of five poses outdoors in front of the NYC skyline. The parents sit on a low wall, holding two young children, while a third child stands between them. They are all dressed in coordinated neutral-toned outfits, perfectly captured by a family photographer with the city's skyscrapers visible in the background.

Why Choose Professional Family Photos When in New York City?

Having photos to commemorate your NYC visit is incredibly important. A photograph offer a tangible memory that showcases this unforgettable trip you made as a family. You can turn your photos into an album and share it with your friends, or decorate the walls of your home. Once your babies grow up, it’s the perfect way to look back and remember the places you’ve traveled to.

These pieces will add character and flair to your home, and provide an upfront view into your life. So why hire a pro to snap these shots? Keep reading to see why hiring a NYC family photographer is a must!

Left image: A young boy and girl face each other holding hands on a city rooftop walkway. Right image: The same boy and girl sit close together on a wooden bench in Highland Park NYC, smiling at the camera. They are in casual outfits, with the girl in a dress and the boy in a sweater and jeans.

NYC Photographers Know the Best Shooting Locations

Let’s be honest – as a traveling family – you may not know all the prime locations. A professional photographer does. Not only can your photographer recommend spots that define your family’s character, they know their way around town too.  Traffic, lighting, and weekend crowds are just some of the factors that come into play.  These photographers aren’t gatekeeping these locations, but they know the best photo spots and places to visit. This not only offers fantastic family photographs but also keeps you safe.  Below is a list of NYC locations we’ve compiled for your family photo shoot.  Mention these to your photographer and use them as a starting point.

A family of four, two adults and two children, stands in front of a rustic stone farmhouse reminiscent of a Westchester county barn with a wooden fence in an idyllic countryside setting. The adults embrace while the two children stand nearby, with trees and a warm evening glow in the background.

Central Park

You cannot visit NYC without taking a trip to Central Park. The stunning bridges and terraces surrounded by nature give a sense of calming peace. All this while bring surrounded by one of the busiest cities in the world! This is a perfect location for young families and those with babies.

Times Square

Another iconic, world-famous place! If you want to be in the middle of the big city and bright lights, you’ll want to plan your family photography here.

A family sits on rocks beside a river, in front of NYC cityscape dominated by the Brooklyn Bridge. They share a kiss while holding their baby. The sky is overcast, casting a soft light over the scene as the baby’s face turns slightly away, gazing at the water.

Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is a historic suspension bridge that embodies NYC’s character. An architectural wonder of the Big Apple and perfect for couples.

The High Line

The High Line is a lofted park that combines the perfect urban environment with beautiful nature. A derelict train line turned into an urban paradise.  This is an excellent spot for young families with babies. They can enjoy the natural and urban scapes without traveling anywhere else.

Left image: Two teen sisters walk hand in hand along a cobblestone street between red-brick buildings. Right image: One person sits on an outdoor metal staircase in Tribeca, New York City, against a brick wall, wearing a white shirt and jeans, with short hair and black boots.

Timing

Timing is everything when it comes down to getting the best family photos in New York. When you hire a native NYC photographer, you can rest easy knowing they know their way around town.  They will set up a timeline to take advantage of the best lighting, while avoiding heavy traffic and tourist crowds.

Outfits/Coordination

Your family photographer will help guide you with wardrobe choices.  Coordinating outfits work better than matchy-matchy. Wardrobe choices that feel personal, comfortable, and define your family’s character are a good place to start.  Local climate plays a role in your outfits as well.  While layers may add complexity and texture, they may also leave you feeling hot and uncomfortable in the summer heat. Talk to your photographers about striking the best balance with our outfits.

Family photographers work with babies on a regular basis.  Their ability to wrangle children is a valuable skill.  It’s one of the many reasons you’ll want to narrow your search to a photographer who specializes in babies and families.  They will recommend the best spots for your portraits, help coordinate your outfits, and make the day as fun as possible!

A NYC family is sitting in a bright living room. A man and a young girl are seated on a chair to the left, while a woman holding twin babies and a white dog are on a couch to the right. A round coffee table with flowers and a fruit bowl is in the center, creating a cozy inside home atmosphere.

Choosing a Photographer that’s right for You

What To Look For In A Professional New York City Photographer

Choosing a photographer who is not local to you may seem daunting. However, once you understand what things to look for, it’s a relatively simple task! You’ll want to begin your search before you leave your home.  When Googling for a family photographer, pay special attention to their portfolio. Does their style embody your vision? Once you narrow down your list of potential candidates, read through their reviews. Are they highly dated? How far back do their testimonials go?  Years translate to experience, so be sure to look for a photographer who’s been in business for some time.

Lastly, reach out to them regarding availability. Many established photographers like Michael Kormos Photography are booked months in advance. Be sure to check whether they have your date available!

A family of three stands smiling on a sandy Coney Island Beach near the water. The man wears a white shirt and beige pants, the woman wears a flowing patterned dress, and the young girl wears a floral dress. The sky is clear, and a seagull is visible in the background.

After your Photoshoot

Choosing your favorite photos, prints, and albums.

You will most likely be back home before your photographer has time to review your photo. You can expect a proofing gallery within a few weeks.  Your proofing gallery will let you review the images from your shoot, and select your favorites. When culling your images, pay attention to facial expressions, posing, and overall appeal. Once you choose your favorites, your photographer will edit them.  Editing removes distractions, hair flyaways, and ensures your final portraits look like true works of art!

When deciding on what to print, consider a variety of solo, group and filler shots.  The ideal desktop display should include a family portrait as 11×14,  with three or four 5x7s. These smaller prints can feature solo portraits of the kids, Mom & Dad, and a filler shot.  A filler shot is generally an abstract image that adds context.  Think of an image of a city skyline, a street vendor, or a closeup of your shoes. Choose photos that would blend best with your home decor, and pictures that capture the essence of your family trip!

You may also want to consider a Keepsake Album! A professionally designed photo album is an excellent way to share your family trip with friends and family.  It makes for a great addition to your coffee table, while featuring a rich, visual narrative of your travels.

Digital copies of your photos are best reserved for social media or personalized gifts. There are so many ways to turn your images into memorable keepsakes.  From refrigerator magnets to framed desktop and wall art.

A family of four stands on a scenic bridge with intricate railings during a cherished family photoshoot in Central Park. The parents, dressed in autumn attire, smile at the camera while their two young children, a boy and a girl, stand in front. Trees and city buildings paint the background.

Wrapping Up Taking Family Photos During Your NYC Vacation

Getting your family’s photos taken while visiting NYC is a unique way to commemorate a fantastic vacation. The best part is –  you’re getting tangible memories to pass down,  and proudly display in your home. If you’re curious about booking a family photography session, please Contact Us. We’ll be happy to recommend some of NYC’s most iconic locations and guide you through the process.