New York is one of the most iconic and photographed places in the world. From sky-high buildings to classic brownstones, quaint cafes to luxury rooftop bars, and of course, the monolith that is the unmatched Central Park, we are spoiled for choice. Here are my top picks for the best photoshoot locations within two hours of NYC. All are free (or nearly free, if you count subway fare or a coffee at a particularly aesthetic cafe). I chose these spots not only for their vibe and beauty but for the diversity and creative possibilities that are possible within the area.

What I love about shooting outdoors is the element of surprise; we never know quite where we’re going to end up shooting and what unexpected corner will lead us to that magic moment. It can also pose more of a challenge, when it comes to weather, crowds, and rules regarding shooting in certain busineses. They key is to be adaptable and make the most of what you DO have. A little planning and foresight is key!

With all that being said, here are my top 9 picks for the best shooting locations in NYC.

Central Park

I adore shooting in Central Park. I genuinely considered listing this as multiple locations on this list because each one is so iconic in and of itself. You have Bethesda Fountains, Bow Bridge (pictured over The Lake in the photo above. Yes, the one with the rowboats (!!), Umpire Rock for those classic skyline shots. If you end up shooting on a rainy day, I love Bethesda Terrace and The Ladies Pavillion to provide full cover. Weekdays daytime offer the smallest crowds.

2. Brooklyn Botanic Gardens

I guess this one isn’t technically free, but at around $20 a ticket, it’s a pretty affordable option, especially if you want to beat the busier crowds at Central Park. The Brooklyn Botanic Gardens are part of the much larger Prospect Park, where there are also a lot of possibilities to shoot. Personally I prefer the botanic gardens because it’s impeccably maintained and designed and offers a lot of diversity without having to walk for miles. There are Japanese gardens, The Cherry Esplanade (arguably the best place to see the cherry blossoms in the springtime), the rose garden, and an elegant greenhouse with tropical flora and fauna. The busiest I see it is in cherry blossom season so keep this in mind when planning your shoot.

3. West Village

The West Village is so classic and pretty and you feel like you’re in a movie set. It’s got the brownstones, the tree-lined streets, the fancy bars and cafes with people spilling out from every corner drinking their Aperol Spritz and slurping carbonara. From bookstores to restaurants, cobblestone streets, and a quaint cozy feel on every corner, there is a ton to explore in the West Village if you want to capture that city vibe. I love this for the “girl about town” vibe.

4. Untermyer Gardens Conservancy

I will admit, this is the one location on this list that I haven’t been to myself but it looks stunning. It’s also a little far, so be prepared for a two-hour train journey from Manhattan each way. But if you Google Untermyer Gardens Conservancy and check out more photos, I bet you’ll see why it’s worth the trek. From luscious gardens to river views and exquisite architecture, this is truly a photographer’s dream.

5. Coney Island

You may know it from the iconic scene in Uptown Girls or the melancholy song by Taylor Swift. From the Wonder Wheel to the sun-drenched boardwalk and lively beach, Coney Island is a wonderland of color and summer fun to explore. There’s something nostalgic about the boardwalk at sunset, and nothing compares to the glow of the neon lights of Luna Park at twilight. Dream up your next summery shoot with a nod to Americana, and pump up your wardrobe with some red, white and blue.

6. SoHo

The cobblestone streets and intricate facades of SoHo are a dream setting for the urban lifestyle shoot. Lined with designer stores, chic passerby, and plenty of aesthetic shops, you’ll be spoiled for choice on where to shoot next. Early birds will get the quietest streets with the least foot traffic, and the softest morning light.

7. Rockaway Beach

New York might not be known for it’s beaches, but it doesn’t mean we don’t have them! If you’re willing to trek out to the Rockaways, you can get your beach shoot fix with less crowds (and a secret unofficial nude beach if you’re daring). Time your shoot at sunset for epic vibes.

8. New York Botanical Gardens

An alternative to Brooklyn Botanic Gardens and Central Park, New York Botanic Gardens (located in the Bronx) has all the aesthetic trimmings (rose gardens, greenhouses, forest) for your urban nature shoot with arguably fewer crowds.

Top 8 Free Shooting Locations in New York City

Central Park