10 Good Places to Take Pictures in New York City

It wouldn’t at all be a stretch to call the Big Apple one of the most iconic cities on the planet. It’s the United States’ most populous and, even more notably, it’s long been a center of immigration from around the world — which began in the late 19th century when Ellis Island welcomed more than 12 million immigrants. This means that NYC is home to a huge amount of cultural diversity.

There’s also a vast amount of creativity that’s come out of New York City in the last few centuries, and that energy is palpable in many of its neighborhoods throughout the five boroughs. These features add up to a location brimming with countless extraordinary vistas and nooks, serving as truly world-class visuals. We’ve curated 10 beautiful, interesting, and often unexpected locations for our list of good places to take pictures in New York City. Read on for a wide-ranging array of spaces meant to suit all kinds of budgets and aesthetic preferences.

1. A breezy, bohemian-inspired abode called the “Jupiter House”

jupiter house nyc new york city rental
Source: Peerspace

We’re starting out with an extraordinary venue that should be at the top of your list of good places to take pictures in New York City. We absolutely love Jupiter House, which is located in Red Hook, Brooklyn. It’s fair to say that there’s absolutely nothing like it — with its combination of a large-scale astrological clock, blue velvet couches, a hammock, and even a harp. The ambiance of this space cannot be beat. Your photos will be gorgeous and ethereal and, as an added bonus, it’s a wonderful place to just hang out.

2. A spacious Williamsburg duplex penthouse

spacious williamsburg duplex penthouse nyc new york city rental
Source: Peerspace

This is some of the best of what Williamsburg, Brooklyn, has to offer. As one reviewer commented, it’s a “light-filled space” that’s “tastefully appointed”; another said it’s “as beautiful as it looks in the photos.” This 1,700-square-foot penthouse is bathed in natural light and decorated with outstanding modern furniture and art. This is a great, comfortable backdrop for a photoshoot.

3. A moody Tribeca artist’s parlor

Tribeca Artist's Parlour and lounge nyc rental
Source: Peerspace

This is the perfect place for a relaxed, small-scale photoshoot. With almost 300 five-star reviews, this location is another standout on our list of good places to take pictures in New York City. It features all kinds of unique details — warm and glowing lighting, gilded mirrors, layers of curtains, velvet and antique furniture, and more. There’s an overall moody feel that will translate perfectly to your photography.

4. The Empire State Building

new york cityscape
Source: Pixabay

It’s a classic for a reason! From the 102nd floor observatory, you’ll find 360-degree panoramas of the cityscape. We can think of no better backdrop for a photoshoot. If you’re concerned about crowds getting in the way of your camera, consider showing up early in the morning or later on in the evening (the observatory is open from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., so you’ll have plenty of options, timing-wise).

5. An unforgettable mansion in the heart of Greenwich Village

greenwich village mansion nyc new york city rental
Source: Peerspace

This mansion and museum will make you feel immersed in the feel of the 19th century, which is when the beautiful home was built. It was designed by a world-famous architect. You’ll find a ballroom with 20-foot ceilings, formal gallery exhibition space, and — most importantly — a huge, cinematic winding staircase that’s ideal for dramatic photos. The home’s five stories contain much more than we can ever describe in full here, so check out the listing for all the details, as well as for lots more stunning photos of the impressive location.

6. A light-filled converted warehouse and private garden

converted warehouse and garden nyc new york city rental
Source: Peerspace

Floor-to-ceiling windows are already a fantastic feature for any photoshoot location — after all, they mean tons of light. This space’s windows open right into a private courtyard garden with apple trees, rose bushes, wildflowers, and a koi pond! This converted warehouse in Williamsburg also features 14-foot exposed wood joist ceilings, multiple skylights that let even more light pour in, and a wood-burning fireplace. Your photoshoot here will benefit from this space’s next-level warm and airy ambiance.

7. A lovely roof garden with view of the Empire State Building

rooftop garden with views nyc new york city rental
Source: Peerspace

Speaking of gorgeous gardens, have we got one for you! Not only does is this roof garden private, romantic, and unbelievably lush (with two delicious-smelling jasmine bushes), it has a direct view of the iconic Empire State Building. There’s even a fireplace. What’s not to love? It’s an understatement to say that this is a good place to take pictures in New York City; any photoshoot here will be absolutely phenomenal.

8. The Flatiron Building

flatiron building
Source: Pixabay

Another one of our good places to take pictures in New York City: this impressive building. Stand in front of the iconic architectural triumph that is the Flatiron building to snap some stunning — and quintessentially New York — photos.

9. A lush, verdant studio in the heart of Midtown

cool beans studio lush creative space nyc new york city rental
Source: Peerspace

Consider having your next photoshoot at this unique location, known cheerfully as the Cool Beans Studio! One happy reviewer described the space as “unique, fun and intimate.” Not only is it brimming with character and an amazing amount of plant life, it’s supremely convenient — only a five-minute walk from Times Square, Bryant Park, and Grand Central, among other important Manhattan landmarks.

10. A spacious and rustic Greenpoint photo studio

rustic greenpoint photo studio nyc rental
Source: Peerspace

Looking for a more rustic location for your next photoshoot? Here’s the place to go. It has a raw, industrial vibe, with lots of exposed brick and attractively distressed hardwood floors, as well as excellent views of the East River and Williamsburg Bridge. You can easily transform the space to your liking and photoshoot needs, making your ultimate vision come to life.

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