As someone who called the East Coast home before moving to Southern California, the chance to return always feels like coming back to my roots. So, when Eloisa and Moses invited me to capture their NYC engagement photos, I knew it would be a special experience. Exploring the city with them was a treat, and I had so much fun creating images that reflected their love while weaving in the iconic landscapes and energy of New York. To learn more about their engagement session and my advice for couples hoping for a similar experience, keep reading.
Why Eloisa + Moses chose NYC for their Engagement Photos
One of my favorite things about Eloisa and Moses is their love of travel and adventure. Though they live in Houston, they wanted to visit NYC for their engagement photos. Eloisa had never been to New York before and hoped to experience the romantic, vibrant feeling the city is known for. They turned the trip into a full getaway, wandering through the streets, taking in the sights, and enjoying their time together in the city.
A Thoughtful NYC Engagement Session with a Romantic Gesture
Part of Eloisa’s vision to capture the spirit of NYC in her engagement photos included both indoor and outdoor backdrops, so we planned the day around that. We started in Central Park, where I documented the couple at Bethesda Terrace, one of my favorite spots in the entire city. I loved photographing them among the arched ceilings, brick courtyard, and the iconic Bethesda Fountain.
After a quick coffee stop, we headed to a nearby library. The marble interiors mixed with the soft light and classic architecture were breathtaking, and a perfect fit for Eloisa’s vision. It was a lovely way to finish a day full of special moments documenting their engagement in New York.
A Special Surprise
The entire day with Eloisa and Moses was filled with romantic gestures exchanged between the two, but one of my favorite moments of the NYC engagement session happened right at the very start. Although Eloisa and Moses had agreed not to get an engagement ring, he had a special gift waiting for her. In front of Bethesda Fountain, he knelt and re-proposed with a ring he had secretly chosen for her. Eloisa was completely surprised, and it was a sweet moment that set the tone for the rest of the morning.
Advice for Planning Your NYC Engagement Photos
As a New York engagement photographer, I’ve had the joy of documenting many couples all around the city. If you are considering getting engagement photos in New York City, my biggest piece of advice is to plan your session for an early weekday morning. Starting at sunrise gives the city a quieter, more intimate feel, and allows you to fully enjoy the moment together.
With Eloisa and Moses, we arrived at Bethesda Terrace at first light, then made our way to the library as it opened. By staying ahead of the crowds, we were able to capture their connection in a relaxed, meaningful way, creating memories they could truly savor and enjoy.
How I Helped Facilitate This NYC Engagement Session
Unlike weddings, which often come with a venue and a general timeline, engagement sessions tend to be more flexible and open-ended. Eloisa and Moses had a clear sense of the mood they wanted for their NYC engagement photos though, which allowed me to step alongside them and help shape their vision into a thoughtful plan.
Eloisa had initially hoped to capture interior photos at a hotel, so I stayed in close communication, exploring options and possibilities. When the hotel plan didn’t work out, we pivoted to the library, which turned out to be the perfect alternative. The space captured exactly what Eloisa had envisioned, and it was a natural fit for their session.
Getting to photograph Eloisa and Moses’s NYC engagement photos was truly incredible. Not only did I have a wonderful time helping them bring their engagement session plans to life, but I also loved how they approached their day with a relaxed, yet focused attention on their experience and each other. Whether your engagement session takes place in New York, Southern California, or somewhere in between, reach out! I would love to hear your ideas and help you bring your vision to life.
For more inspiration for your engagement session, check out the posts below!
- Eloisa & Moses’ Stylish NYC Engagement Photos
- 13 Best Engagement Photo Locations in Southern California
written by Sonder Studio
