The 12 Best Places to Take Photos in NYC

The task of finding the best places to take photos in NYC can be a daunting one. With so many options, from hidden gems to famous landmarks, it can be difficult to decide on the perfect location for your next shoot. Thankfully, your friends at Peerspace have an eye for style and functionality. And it just so happens that we’ve compiled this handy-dandy list of the best places to take photos in NYC — this will help you narrow down your search in a New York minute. How convenient!

1. Watch your photos bloom in this luxurious Chelsea studio

Elegance is the name of the game with this bright and spacious studio located in the heart of Chelsea. Rustic wooden frames pair beautifully with lavish, intricate chandeliers and seating. The portable floral wall can be moved around to suit your lighting tastes, and it makes for an exquisite backdrop that’s perfect for intimate, dreamy portraits. South-facing, oversized windows provide ample natural light with a 14th-floor view of Midtown. Floor-length sheer curtains serve as a fantastic light filter –– making it easy to capture high-quality, crisp images.

2. Blast off at Jupiter House

This surreal space is a romantic escape from the chaos of the city with its exotic greenery and whimsical props. Take a nap in a sun-kissed hammock, or lounge on one of the gorgeous blue-velvet sofas. A full-sized harp and astrological clock add to the dreamlike, cinematic environment, while an abundance of natural light pours through bohemian curtains to create a timeless and elegant feel . The atmosphere keeps photographers and artists coming back for more.

3. Break the mold in this former foundry with old-world charm

While this eclectic space may no longer be used to shape molten metal, it’s still as hot as ever. “The studio” –– as the host lovingly refers to it –– was rescued and repurposed in 1979. It’s now home to a variety of ceramic wall hangings and sturdy, yet elegant textiles. Giant skylights give the former factory an atrium-like effect that is complemented by the various potted plants and metallic details. The old-world piano and centered staircase are perfect spots for capturing the magic of private conversations or showcasing fashions that benefit from top-down lighting.

4. Challenge yourself at Grand Central Station

Distinctive architecture and Parisian Beaux-Arts interior design make Grand Central Station a natural landing spot for tourists and professional photographers alike. With more than 750,000 people passing through daily, the historic terminal remains one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions year after year.

While that may be a turn-off to those searching for the Big Apple’s more hidden gems, Grand Central Station still has plenty of inspiration to offer. Slow shutter speeds capture the hustle and bustle of everyday life between this historic landmark’s walls, providing an ideal background for striking fashion designs, romantic portraits, and silly ideas. Stunning handrails and archways add to the wealth of opportunities for tightly-framed photos –– all beautifully lit by the flood of iconic natural light.

5. Breathe easy in this breathtaking Tribeca loft

Beautifully balanced and serene –– this stylish Tribeca loft will leave you feeling calm and productive. Exposed brick and unobstructed, natural lighting combine to give the winding staircase the look and feel of an outdoor fire escape –– without all the equipment damaging elements. Blank walls and minimalist furniture add easygoing charm and functionality to the unexpectedly large space, which boasts a bar area, DJ area, full kitchen, and three full bathrooms.

6. Sit and look pretty at City Hall Park

If you’re looking for the best places to take photos in NYC, hop on over to the Croton Fountain, located in the center of City Hall Park. Built in 1842, the Croton was the first purely decorative fountain in the United States –– a far cry from the bland, functional fountains that came before it. Instead of distributing drinking water itself, the Croton served as monument and celebration of New York City’s first dependable source of clean water –– the Croton Aqueduct. Today, its ornamental details and fairytale-like surroundings make the Croton Fountain a favorite go-to for dramatic outdoor photoshoots.

7. Indulge in this indoor pool in East Williamsburg

Is there anything more luxurious than an indoor swimming pool? How about an indoor swimming pool with an adjacent sauna/steam room and Jacuzzi? How about all of those things in a private, East Williamsburg space with plush seating, slate wall tile, and seductive accent lighting? Did we just say seductive? Absolutely. Is this one of the best places to take photos in NYC? Come on. Is that even a question?

8. Go big in this large, industrial-chic loft

Rent a slick-looking car, buy a boatload of balloons, and bring up your favorite horse (if you can figure out how to get it back down). There isn’t much you can’t do in this window-lined, industrial-chic photo and film shoot location. The Grammy-award-winning loft comes complete with vintage props, renovated factory windows, 125’’ projector screen and projector, an open kitchen, and 4,500 square feet of naturally lit space that could make building an IKEA bookshelf look glamorous.

9. Let your ideas shine in this bright studio near Penn Station

Open and energetic –– this stark-white studio is a great example of “less is more.” Panoramic views and eight large, south-facing windows, covered by sheer eyelet curtains, give a glimpse of the city while maintaining privacy and light. Fun props –– like this gilded, pink velvet loveseat –– stand out against the contemporary, white floors and walls. Extensive features, including two passenger elevators, a freight elevator, stereo system, and equipment rental allow for maximum creative freedom, while studio fans provide the windy glamour of an Old Navy commercial.

10. Lose yourself in this lush nomad loft

This bright and friendly workspace is home to lush floral arrangements and greenery. The walls are lined with stacks of reading material and photographs. While the space can be arranged to suit all of your creative needs, we love the glamorous functionality of the center desk and modern chaise lounge as is. Beautiful, nearly floor-to-ceiling windows, bring in a generous amount of natural light.

11. Radio City Music Hall

When the sun dies down, head over to the iconic Radio City Music Hall. You may not be able to grace its famous auditorium, but you can certainly make use of the glowing neon sign as a classic NYC background.

12. Create a masterpiece in this warm content creation space

This full-floor loft features exposed brick, black walls, and dramatic lighting that combine to make cozy, yet high-impact photographs. The standalone tub and well-kept, vintage sofas are perfect for creating moody photos with a handsome, underground flare. The expansive windows block out street noise, while allowing plenty of that classic New York sunlight to shine through. And while champagne is not included, there are two Mad Men-esque bar stations where you can pour yourself a double. Cheers!

Find production spaces in NYC on Peerspace