Sunset Family Beach Photography at the Sound View in Greenport, NY

Family beach photography will always have my heart. The mix of salty air, soft sand, and warm sunset light creates the most effortless setting for real connection. This sweet milestone session at the Sound View Hotel in Greenport, NY, was all of that and more, shy smiles at the start, sandy toes, and twirling princess dresses by the end.

Greenport is one of my favorite locations for family beach photos. Nestled along the North Fork of Long Island, it feels like a peaceful escape while still being an easy trip from the city. The Sound View Hotel sits right on the water, overlooking the Long Island Sound, which makes it a dream spot for a NY family photographer.

This Greenport family session at the Sound View Hotel had everything I love about family beach photography: a beautiful location, soft sunset light, and a family willing to simply be themselves. From those first shy moments to the last twirls by the water, we created a set of images that tells the story of this season in their lives in a natural, heartfelt way.

If you’re dreaming of your own family beach photos on the North Fork or anywhere from New York City to the Hamptons, I would love to help you create a relaxed, meaningful session that feels true to your family. Please contact us to get started today!

For details on booking your maternity, newborn, or family session, please visit our contact page
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The Ultimate Central Park Family Photography Guide

As a New York City Family Photographer and a native New Yorker, I thought it would be a good idea to put all of my favorite Central Park photo locations for family photos in one post so that you’d have everything you need to know to capture stunning, timeless family portraits in NYC's most iconic green space.

Central Park is one of the most magical backdrops for family photography in the world. With 843 acres of rolling meadows, iconic bridges, blooming gardens, and dramatic skyline views, it offers something for every family's style, from whimsical and playful to classic and elegant. Whether you're visiting New York City or you're a local family looking for a memorable session, this guide will help you make the most of your time in the park.

Best Locations in Central Park for Family Photos

Bethesda Fountain & Terrace - Perhaps the most iconic spot in all of Central Park, the Bethesda Fountain and its surrounding terrace offer grandeur and architectural beauty. The Angel of the Waters statue creates a stunning focal point, and the wide stone steps make for natural, relaxed posing. This location works beautifully for families of all sizes.

Photographer Tip: Arrive early on weekend mornings before crowds build up. The warm light in the archway leading to the terrace creates an almost painterly effect on portraits.

The Bow Bridge - The elegant cast-iron Bow Bridge is one of the most photographed spots in the park — and for good reason. The bridge spans the Lake beautifully, and in spring and fall the surrounding foliage creates a dreamy, romantic atmosphere. It's an especially beloved spot for families with young children, who love to peer over the railings into the water.

Best Season: Fall foliage (late October–early November) turns the scene golden and orange, making this one of the most breathtaking backdrops of the year.

Conservatory Garden - Tucked away on the Upper East Side of the park at 105th Street, the Conservatory Garden is Central Park's only formal garden and a hidden gem for photographers. The three garden sections — English, French, and Italian — offer manicured hedges, flowering wisteria, and the beloved Secret Garden fountain. Because it requires a short walk from major entrances, it's much less crowded than other spots.

Best Time: Late April through May for spectacular spring blooms, or late September for the Michaelmas daisy display.

Sheep Meadow - When you want open space, natural light, and that quintessential New York City skyline in the background, Sheep Meadow is your spot. This 15-acre lawn offers a relaxed, picnic-style atmosphere that's perfect for families with young children who need room to run. The skyline of the Upper West Side framed against a blue sky makes for stunning wide-angle family shots.

Clothing Tip: Bright, coordinated outfits pop beautifully against the green lawn and blue sky. Avoid busy patterns that compete with the lush background.

Cherry Hill & The Lake - The area near Cherry Hill offers a fountain, a classic Victorian-style bridge, and sweeping views across The Lake toward the Bow Bridge. It's a versatile spot that works for both close-up portraits and wider environmental shots that capture the park's grandeur.

Best Times of Day & Season

After Sunrise: I have learned that over the years, the best time to go to Central Park is right after sunrise. Less crowds, Fewer distractions in the background, and it feels as if you have the park, all 843 acres to yourself. It’s truly magical!

Golden Hour - The hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset provide soft, warm, flattering light that is ideal for portraits. In Central Park, late afternoon golden hour, roughly 5–7 pm in summer, bathes the Bethesda Terrace and open meadows in gorgeous amber light.

Seasonal Highlights

Spring (April–May): Cherry blossoms near the Reservoir and Conservatory Garden; fresh green foliage throughout the park.
Summer (June–August): Lush, full greenery; best for early morning sessions before heat and crowds peak.
Fall (October–November): Peak foliage makes this the most sought-after season. Book photographers well in advance.
Winter (December–March): A snowy Central Park is utterly magical. Far fewer tourists and a beautiful, quiet atmosphere.

What to Wear for Central Park Family Photos

Your clothing choices can make or break the overall look of your photos. Here are some tried-and-true guidelines:

• Coordinate without matching. Choose a two or three-color palette and let each family member wear something different within that palette.

• Do not wear Black for your photos.

• Avoid busy logos, large graphics, and neon colors that distract from faces and expressions.

• Layer up in fall and winter. Think scarves, jackets, and boots add texture and visual interest.

• Comfortable shoes matter. You'll be walking on grass, cobblestones, and paths. Avoid shoes that will cause discomfort.

• Bring a change of outfit for children. Little ones get dirty quickly, especially near the water and on the grass.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Session

• Book your photo session anywhere from 4–8 weeks in advance, especially for fall sessions, which fill up months ahead.

• Arrive 15 minutes early to let children explore and settle in before photos begin.

• Bring snacks and small props like bubbles, a balloon, or a favorite stuffed animal to keep young children engaged.

• Check the NYC Parks event calendar. Some days, the park is busier due to events, and certain areas may be closed.
  

How to book your family session in Central Park, NYC

I hope these tips were helpful, and if you are ready to book your Central Park family session, I’d love to hear from you. Please use our contact form here to send us a message or follow us on Instagram to say hello. We are booking family sessions in Central Park all year round, so it’s always a great time to schedule your family photos today.

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10th Year Wedding Anniversary Photos in Montauk, NY

There is something incredibly special about reaching your 10th wedding anniversary. Marking that milestone with wedding anniversary photos is one of my favorite ways couples choose to honor their story. For this sweet family, we returned to where it all began: the Montauk Yacht Club in Montauk, NY, the very place they said “I do” ten years ago. Now, instead of just two people in love, there were four of them - mom, dad, their son, and their daughter - ready to celebrate and create new memories in the Hamptons.

For this couple, the Montauk Yacht Club was more than just a pretty backdrop. It was the place where they promised each other forever. As we walked the grounds together, they pointed out locations that held memories from their wedding day: where they shared their first look, where they danced with family and friends, where they snuck away for a quiet moment together.

Now, a decade later, they were back- this time hand in hand with their children. Revisiting their wedding venue for their 10th wedding anniversary photos felt like opening a time capsule. You could see it in their faces: the same love, just deeper and richer, shaped by ten years of life together.

When planning wedding anniversary photos, especially in a setting like Montauk, I always encourage families to choose outfits that feel like an elevated version of themselves - comfortable, but special. For this session, the family chose light, coastal-inspired colors that worked beautifully with the yacht club setting and the Montauk landscape.

Here are a few simple guidelines that work well for Montauk and Hamptons sessions:
- Soft, neutral tones like cream, beige, pale blue, soft pink, and light gray photograph beautifully by the water.
- Flowy dresses and skirts add movement and look gorgeous in the ocean breeze.
- Linens and cottons keep everyone comfortable, especially if it’s a warm summer day.
- Coordinated outfits (rather than matching) create a cohesive, natural look—think colors and tones that complement one another instead of identical outfits.

The goal is always for you to feel like yourself. When you’re comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing, your connection and emotions can really shine through in your photos.

Your wedding day was just the beginning. The years that follow—the ordinary days, the big milestones, the growing family - are where your story truly unfolds. If you’re dreaming of an anniversary session in Montauk or anywhere in the Hamptons, I would be honored to help you celebrate this chapter with heartfelt, natural photographs that feel like you.

For details on booking your maternity, newborn, or family session, please visit our contact page
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How to Prepare for Your NYC Family Photos in Central Park, NY

Planning family photos in New York City is such a special experience. You’re not just choosing a date on the calendar, you’re choosing the season, the colors, the feeling, and the memories you’ll hold onto for years to come. As a NYC family photographer, some of my favorite sessions take place in Central Park during the soft, blooming days of spring and the cozy, colorful afternoons of fall. With a little preparation, your New York family photography session can feel relaxed, natural, and genuinely fun for both you and your kids.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to prepare for your family photos in Central Park in both Spring and Fall. From cherry blossoms to fall foliage, from what to wear to how to keep the kids happy - so you can enjoy the experience as much as the final images.

Choosing the Best Season for Your Family Photos

One of the first big decisions is whether you’d like your session in the spring under the cherry blossoms or in the fall surrounded by warm, golden leaves. Both seasons are beautiful for New York family photography; it really comes down to the mood and color palette you’re drawn to.

Spring in Central Park feels airy, romantic, and light. The trees are bursting with soft pink and white flowers, the grass is fresh and green, and the light has a gentle, hopeful quality. If you love pastel tones and a soft, dreamy atmosphere, spring might be perfect for you.

Fall in Central Park is cozy, vibrant, and richly colored. The leaves transform into gorgeous shades of gold, red, and orange. Sweaters, boots, and layered outfits feel right at home against the changing foliage. If you love warm tones and that classic, crisp fall feeling, you’ll adore fall family photos.

Both seasons are popular, so once you know what you’re drawn to, it’s a good idea to schedule your family session in advance. This helps you secure your preferred date and time, especially during peak cherry blossom weeks and peak fall foliage.

Spring Family Photos Under the Cherry Blossoms

Springtime in Central Park is truly magical. As a NYC family photographer, I’ve watched so many children’s faces light up when they see the cherry blossoms for the first time. The petals fall like confetti, creating a soft, whimsical backdrop that feels almost like a storybook. Cherry blossoms typically bloom for a short window, and the exact timing can shift year to year based on the weather. Because of this, I recommend booking your session early and staying a bit flexible on time if possible. Morning or early evening sessions often work beautifully - there are fewer crowds, and the light is soft and flattering.

For spring family photos, think light, airy, and comfortable. Pale blues, blush pinks, soft whites, and gentle neutrals all look stunning against the blossoms and fresh greenery. Flowy dresses, simple button-down shirts, and lightweight sweaters can add some movement and texture to your images without overwhelming the scene.

Central Park offers so many beautiful spots for cherry blossom photos. We might wander along the paths near the iconic Central Park Reservoir, stroll through areas where the trees arch overhead, or stop where the blossoms create a dreamy, petal-filled frame around your family. The focus is always on your connection, holding hands, snuggling close, and simply enjoying the park together while I gently guide you through natural, flattering poses.

Fall Family Photos in Central Park’s Colorful Leaves

If you dream of cozy sweaters, crunchy leaves underfoot, and warm golden tones, fall is the perfect time for your New York family photography session. Central Park in autumn is a showstopper, the trees explode with color, the light turns golden, and every corner feels like a painting. Peak fall foliage usually happens in late October into early November, but the exact timing can vary. That’s why I encourage families to book their fall family photos well ahead of time, especially if you have a specific weekend in mind. Popular times do fill up quickly.

For fall sessions, think about warm, rich colors: deep greens, mustard, rust, cream, navy, and soft browns. These tones complement the natural colors in the park and help your family stand out beautifully without clashing with the foliage. Layers photograph wonderfully in fall, cardigans, light jackets, scarves, and boots add both visual interest and flexibility if the day starts cool and warms up.

During a fall family session, we might stroll through tree-lined paths, stop where the leaves create a colorful carpet, or have the kids toss leaves into the air, laughing together. The goal is to keep the session playful and relaxed so your kids’ real personalities shine through. Your images will feel warm, joyful, and timeless - perfect for holiday cards and framed prints at home.

Iconic Central Park Locations for Family Photos

One of the joys of working as a NYC family photographer is getting to use iconic Central Park locations as your backdrop. These spots are famous for a reason. They’re incredibly photogenic and instantly evoke that classic New York feel.

Bethesda Terrace is one of the most beloved locations. With its grand staircase, intricate tiles, and views of the Bethesda Fountain and lake, it offers both architectural beauty and lovely open spaces. Kids love exploring the steps and peeking over railings, which makes it easy to capture candid, natural moments.

Bow Bridge is another favorite. Its romantic curve and views over the water, framed by trees, are beautiful in both spring and fall. In spring, the cherry blossoms and blooming trees soften the scene; in fall, the foliage wraps the bridge in warm color.

The Mall is the iconic, tree-lined walkway you’ve probably seen in movies. Its canopy of trees is gorgeous year-round, but in fall especially, it feels like stepping into a postcard. It’s also a great space for walking shots, where your family simply strolls together while I document your interactions.

Gapstow Bridge, near the southeast corner of the park, offers stunning views of both nature and the city skyline. It’s especially lovely in fall, when the leaves surround the bridge and reflect in the water. This spot is perfect if you want that classic New York City-meets-nature feel in your family photos.

Together, we’ll choose a path through Central Park that suits your family’s energy level and the ages of your children. The walk between locations becomes part of the story, giving us plenty of chances for spontaneous, natural images along the way.

What to Wear for Timeless New York Family Photography

Wardrobe choices can make such a difference in how your photos feel. The goal is to complement the environment, flatter each person, and create a cohesive look without feeling too “matchy.” For Central Park sessions, especially in spring and fall, lighter colors and soft neutrals tend to work beautifully.

I usually recommend steering away from solid black for family photos. While black can be chic in person, it often photographs a bit harshly and can feel heavy against the soft colors of spring or the warm tones of fall. Instead, consider shades like cream, ivory, oatmeal, light gray, soft pastels, and muted tones like dusty blue, sage, or blush. These colors reflect light nicely and keep the overall feeling of your images fresh and light.

Start by choosing one outfit, often for Mom, and build everyone else around that. If you’re wearing a soft floral dress, for example, your partner could wear a light blue shirt and tan pants, while the kids wear combinations of white, pale pink, or light gray. Avoid large logos, loud patterns, or overly bright neon colors, which can distract from your faces and the overall mood of the photo.

Comfort is key, especially for children. If they feel itchy or restricted, it will show in their expressions. Choose clothes they can move in. twirl, run, and be picked up easily. Make sure shoes are practical for walking on park paths; stylish flats, boots, or sandals that you’ve worn before are best. A quick try-on at home a week before the session can help you feel confident that everything fits well and feels good.

Letting Kids Be Kids for Natural, Relaxed Photos

The most memorable family photos often come from the in-between moments: your toddler giggling as you toss them in the air, your child running ahead on the path, your family snuggling close under a tree. That’s why one of the most important ways to prepare for your session is to embrace the idea of letting kids be kids.

As a NYC family photographer with years of experience, I never expect children to stand perfectly still and smile on command. Instead, I gently guide your family into activities that feel natural, walking hand in hand, playing a simple game, telling a silly joke, or asking the kids to show me how high they can jump. This takes the pressure off and allows genuine expressions to shine through.

Before your session, it can help to talk with your kids about what to expect. Keep it light and positive, something like, “We’re going to the park to play and take some special photos together.” Make sure everyone is well-rested and has had a snack before you arrive. Bringing along a small, non-messy treat for after the session, like gummies or crackers, can be a fun incentive.

During the shoot, your job is simply to love on your kids. If someone gets shy or a bit cranky, we’ll take a short break, shift to a different spot, or try a new activity. Sessions are designed to be flexible and relaxed, not rushed or stressful. The more you lean into the experience and focus on each other, the more your final images will reflect the true spirit of your family.

Booking Your NYC Family Photography Session in Advance

Because spring cherry blossom season and fall foliage are such popular times, it’s important to plan ahead for your New York family photography session. My calendar for these seasons tends to book up early, especially for weekend dates and prime times of day.

Once you know whether you’re drawn more to the dreamy cherry blossoms of spring or the cozy colors of fall, we can choose a tentative date and time together. I’ll also help you think through backup plans in case of inclement weather, as well as timing around your children’s naps or bedtimes to keep everyone happy and comfortable.

Booking in advance also gives you the space to plan your outfits, talk to your kids about the session, and make any necessary arrangements for haircuts, nails, or makeup if you’d like. My goal is to make the process smooth and stress-free from the moment you inquire until you’re holding your final images in your hands.

Whether you live in New York City or are visiting from out of town, scheduling your family session thoughtfully ensures you have a relaxed experience and beautiful, timeless photos that reflect this season of your lives.

If you’re dreaming of spring cherry blossoms or fall family photos in Central Park, now is the perfect time to schedule your session and secure your preferred date before the calendar is full. I’d be honored to help you capture these memories in a way that feels effortless, genuine, and beautifully you. Please use our Contact Form to reach out and start planning your session today.

For details on booking your maternity, newborn, or family session, please visit our contact page
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Beach Family Photos in Southampton, NY: A Sweet Summer Milestone Session

One of my favorite parts of being both a wedding and NYC family photographer is getting to stay in my clients’ lives long after the “I do’s.” I first met this sweet couple during their engagement session, and later had the honor of photographing their wedding day. We’ve shared so many meaningful moments together already, so when they reached out to plan a milestone session for their daughter’s half-birthday, my heart felt so full.

Seeing my couples step into parenthood is such a beautiful transition to witness. There’s a quiet tenderness that appears in the way they hold their little one, an ease in their smiles, and a different kind of love that comes to life in front of the camera. Because we already had that foundation from their engagement and wedding photos, the session flowed naturally. They trusted me, I knew their story, and together we were able to create images that feel like a continuation of their visual legacy.

Milestone sessions have become one of my favorite parts of family photography. The first year of your baby’s life is full of such rapid change, and six months is an especially sweet stage to document. By this age, many babies have started sitting up with a bit of support, they’re full of giggles and expressions, and their personalities are really starting to shine.

Wardrobe can make such a difference in how your photos feel. For this Southampton milestone session, the family kept things simple, light, and coordinated without being too “matchy.” Mom chose a breezy, blue gingham sundress that moved beautifully in the wind. Dad wore light-colored chinos and a soft, casual button-down. Their baby girl was dressed in a sweet, textured romper in white that perfectly complemented the coastal setting.

If you’re thinking about booking a milestone session, whether in NYC, The Hamptons, or somewhere in between, I’d love to help you capture this season of your life. These days pass more quickly than we can ever imagine, but photographs allow us to keep them close.

For details on booking your maternity, newborn, or family session, please visit our contact page
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