Alex Plus Jess Photography in New York City is a leading photographer specializing in wedding engagement and elopement, as well as family and proposal photography Here are 7 of our favorite locations for a photoshoot in or near Central Park!

1. BETHESDA FOUNTAIN AND BETHESDA TERRACE is one of our favorites! We recommend getting there early not just for the light, but also for the crowds. Bethesda Fountain and Terrace are one of the most famous parts of Central Park, but when you get there early it’s still pretty empty. Don’t sweat people in the background. We’ll shoot around them or edit them out if we have to - the important thing is to be in the moment and capture YOU.  We’ll cruise around and explore the whole area. There’s all kinds of secret spots in Central Park, particularly around the Bethesda Fountain and Terrace such as The Mall, the Naumburg Bandshell, and Bow Bridge, and every little corner has character and a story to tell. Be open to looking all over for that special light.

2. GAPSTOW BRIDGE is a gorgeous spot covered in vines that blends in with the scenery around it. This is a very popular spot for photographs, so let's make sure to get there early! The current Gapstow Bridge was built in 1896 to replace a more elaborate bridge with distinctive cast-iron elements that deteriorated. It’s hard to beat the backdrop of the skyline, mixed with the romantic stone bridge surrounded by the pond and willow trees.

3. WASHINGTON SQUARE PARK is gorgeous. The arch which was created in 1891 (!), is iconic. The lighting and lack of people are a strong reason we’ll frequently recommend mornings for engagements in New York City, and Washington Square Park and the surrounding area are no exception. The way the light bounces off the buildings, the lack of crowds, the (usually) cool weather, really allow you to have the city to yourself.

4. WAGNER COVE -  This gorgeous lesser-known spot in Central Park, is such a great spot for photos, especially if you are looking for an intimate wedding ceremony with your closest family and friends, or just want a more quiet spot for engagements, a proposal, or even family photos. It’s nearby other attractions, down some stone steps near Cherry Hill and the Bethesda Fountain. Also a plus that this spot is not known by many, you'll be sure to share an intimate photoshoot space with you and your loved one(s) or even for intimate weddings. Looking for great intimate wedding spots? We've got you covered in our blog here.

5. CONSERVATORY GARDENS - A beautifully curated garden within the park. They’re much stricter about rules here, but it’s all to protect the amazing gardening that’s been done. This gorgeous setting is perfect for any shoot you can imagine, and is well kept through every season.

6. LADIES PAVILION - This gorgeous pavilion has a rock area next to it with a giant view of the cityscape behind it. Located near 75th street on the west side of the park. The pavilion itself is also a great location for small wedding ceremonies

7. TREEHOUSE FOR DREAMING - This is a smaller gazebo structure, with the city and skyline in the background. Central Park has many great photo spots that are best suited for elopements or proposals but they also provide beautiful backdrops for weddings too!

We specialize in wedding photography, family photography, elopement, and engagement photography. If you are interested in a photoshoot in the New York and Central Park area, we are so ready to chat with you!