How I Captured the Magic of New York City as a Destination Photographer
As a destination photographer, I thrive on capturing love in its most pure, authentic, and beautiful form. When I decided to take a trip to New York City, I knew it was an opportunity to do something a little out of the ordinary. I set out to document love in its rawest form by capturing moments with couples I’d never met before, all across the iconic city.
This project, which I call the “Love in New York” series, was all about creating memories you can feel. It’s about freezing moments in time that are nothing short of magical. From cuddling by the Brooklyn Bridge to dancing under the Bethesda Terrace and beside the Bethesda Fountain, I had the honor of documenting spontaneous love stories with four incredible couples from all walks of life.
One of the things that made this trip so special was the energy of the city itself. New York is a city full of life, where love can blossom anywhere, and anything is possible. My mission was to show couples embracing that very thing: pure, unfiltered, unposed love.
How I Found My Couples
The idea for this series wasn’t just about going to New York and taking photos at tourist hotspots. It was about connecting with real couples, people who are just like you and me. People who were in love and wanted to freeze that moment forever.
I spent my days walking around Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and DUMBO (down under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), asking couples if I could take their photos. I approached both locals and visitors, people who were taking in the city’s beauty and experiencing their own love stories.
Now, let’s be real, asking strangers to take their photos isn’t easy. But, when I approached this couple near the Bethesda Fountain, I knew I had to give it a shot. I was biking through Central Park when I looked down at the terrace and saw two people dancing by the water, with a guitarist serenading them. It was one of those moments when everything aligned, and I knew I had to capture it.
I locked eyes with them and without a second thought, I locked my bike to a nearby fence (yep, had to haul that bike down the stairs with me!), and approached them. And just like that, I was able to capture their intimate dance in the heart of the hustle and bustle of the city. It was pure magic.
See the behind-the-scenes video here!
The Unexpected Love Stories
Another unexpected moment was when I was wandering near the lake in Central Park. I noticed a couple in a paddle boat, looking perfectly at ease with each other in the middle of the water. I waved them over in ear-shot so I could ask them if I could take their photos. They got close enough to shore and I found out that the couple was visiting from Israel, and to my surprise, they had just gotten engaged two days earlier! I couldn’t believe my luck. They had no idea I was even planning to capture this moment, but it was one of those things where it just felt meant to be.
Check out the photos here on my Instagram post!
The third time I approached a couple was equally serendipitous. I spotted them while they were walking through DUMBO, one of the most beautiful and picturesque parts of NYC. He was from Italy, and she was from France. They were on vacation, exploring the city and each other, completely wrapped up in love. They were glowing – and not just because of the incredible city around them. It was one of those moments that I couldn’t miss, so I asked them if I could take a few photos.
It wasn’t always easy. I had to step out of my comfort zone and approach strangers, something that definitely didn’t come naturally to me. There was even one couple who thought I was asking for money! They immediately said no and I went on my way. Classic NYC, right? But when I showed the next couple my Instagram and explained I wasn’t a total weirdo (LOL), they immediately agreed. After that, we made our way to DUMBO for a photoshoot. The area beneath the Manhattan Bridge is one of the most romantic spots in New York. The stunning skyline in the background created the perfect New York City vibe.
See more from the behind-the-scenes video here! As well as their blog, New York City Couple Photoshoot.
Why I Love Being a Destination Photographer
As a destination photographer, I’m constantly seeking new places, faces, and moments to capture. But what truly excites me is the opportunity to document love in all its forms, in all kinds of places. I could’ve stayed at home and captured the same kind of moments, but there’s something about the energy of a city like New York that elevates everything. The spontaneous, unplanned moments make it real – and that’s why I love doing what I do.
As a photographer, I understand the pressure that comes with having your photo taken, especially in an unfamiliar setting. That’s why, during these shoots, I never asked couples to pose. I simply prompted them to be themselves – to cuddle, hold hands, walk, dance, and share their love. I wanted to capture how they were feeling in the moment, letting go of any distractions, so the photos could speak for themselves.
Whether it’s an engagement session, wedding, or just a spontaneous moment between two people, I believe it’s all about capturing real emotions. It’s about creating memories you can feel. And that’s exactly what my “Love in New York” series is all about.
Book Me as Your Destination Photographer!
Are you and your partner ready to document your love story, whether it’s in a city as magical as New York, or somewhere else that’s special to you? If you’re an adventurous couple who wants to capture memories that are raw, real, and beautiful, I’d love to help you freeze those moments in time and be your destination photographer!
From intimate city shoots to destination weddings and elopements, I’m here to make sure your love is captured in the most genuine and authentic way possible. Contact me on my website! I can’t wait to be part of your big day!
See more of my work on my Pinterest and portfolio!
Check out more blogs below!
6 Fun Engagement Photo Ideas for Every Couple
Why You Should Have an Engagement Session Before Your Wedding Day
