The 10 Best Family Photoshoot Ideas Near New York City

New York City is perhaps the most photogenic city in the world. Unique neighborhoods and sprawling urban development make an incredible and vibrant backdrop for any portrait. There’s always something happening in this city, and that energy is palpable in portraits. Why should your family portraits be any different? Unfortunately, public spaces tend to always be crowded, so if you’re looking to do family portraits without people getting in your background, you’re going to need your own space. Peerspace has you covered. Here’s a list of the 10 best family photoshoot ideas near New York City. 

1. Take portraits in a Tribeca artist’s parlor

This moody loft is a great place to do unique family portraits. Decorated in an electric style and conveniently located, this space is filled with interesting details that will add character to your shots. The space isn’t huge, so don’t plan on hosting large families here. But the unique decoration and large windows make this a great place to consider when setting up a family photoshoot.

2. Wander around Central Park

Who doesn’t love Central Park? Nowhere else in the city is there a higher density of perfect green spaces and quiet spots. If you like to use natural scenery as a backdrop, the possibilities are endless here. Plus, shooting outdoors can breathe a certain life into a session, especially when the sun’s out and the weather’s good.

3. Plan photos in the Jupiter House

Here’s another airy, unique space, which boasts deep blue walls, numerous houseplants, and large windows — these make for an excellent portrait setting. In a space like this, it’s easy to forget that you’re in the city. Interesting artwork, detailed flooring, and a fireplace all accent the various backgrounds — it’s really a great location.

4. Take urban portraits in this sunny loft

If you’re a fan of naturally lit pictures, consider a photoshoot in this urban loft. Exposed brick throughout gives you a background full of character, and the large windows fill the space with natural light. This historic building will make your images stand out in a crowd, and it’s a great fit for families on the slightly edgier side. The space is also large enough to accommodate a family of any size.

5. Pose on the Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic NYC landmarks, and it’s easy to get a good family portrait here. The classic angle is from the middle of the bridge, shooting straight down its length. One photo idea is to have the family group up with the bridge tower in the background, then work that camera shutter.

6. Take portraits in a Greenpoint studio

This rustic space features exposed brick walls and hardwood, giving it an urban feel. In addition to this, there are several pull-down paper backdrops mounted to the wall, including a white paper background, allowing you to do proper studio work. You’ll want to procure your own lighting equipment for, however, as the venue doesn’t provide any. This is a unique studio space that is sure to be a great location for a family photoshoot.

7. Plan bohemian-styled portraits in a Williamsburg loft

In this pre-WWII machine shop, located in the heart of Williamsburg, you’ll find a wonderful place for a portrait session. Chic decor and exposed brick accent every inch of this venue, all of which is complemented by tasteful furniture selection. An outdoor deck also gives you great views of the city that you can use as an additional backdrop. There’s really no venue like this in the whole city, so it’s worth considering for your next family photo session.

8. Book the “Haven Loft” for portraits

This bright, full loft with high ceilings and hardwood flooring makes for a unique background for family photos. Crown molding accents each of the rooms, and large windows facing both east and west mean you’ll get excellent light at any time of day. Exposed brick and decorative rugs add to the charm of this location. It’s a great spot for families with a more artistic inclination.

9. Take photos in this elegant K-Town loft

In this 2,000-square-foot loft, you’ll find a great post-industrial feel in a brightly lit space. The modern furniture makes for a good prop in any photo, and the library on one portion of the exposed brick wall is an excellent and unique backdrop. Altogether, this venue is a quintessential New York City venue.

10. Have a photoshoot in this sophisticated urban studio

This is an excellent space for a family photoshoot, with plenty of natural light and studio lights available on site. North-facing windows let in soft light throughout the day, and the included studio lights give you a lot of options concerning the appearance of your portraits. White walls, leather furniture, and house plants all add to the unique ambiance of this space.

In a place like New York City, it’s more important than ever to make work that communicates your personal vision, while simultaneously offering clients a unique product. As an international hub for photography, NYC has competition that’s stiff. Since this is a huge and populous city, however, there’s also a large pool of potential clients. This is a city where one is best served by being bold, and Peerspace can help you realize your vision by connecting you with the best photoshoot locations available. Our 10 best family photoshoot ideas near New York City feature places that aren’t just pretty — they’re perfectly functional and well-suited for the actual work of doing a proper photoshoot. Have fun and make some memories!

Find photoshoot locations in New York City on Peerspace