We, at Perelmuters Studio, have shot hundreds of engagement shoots throughout the NJ area and have noticed a pattern, as we continue to return to the same locations time and time again. I thought it may be helpful to provide the location information to couples who are currently researching same for their Wedding.
1. Lambert’s Castle, West Paterson, NJ – Built by business tycoon Catholina Lambert in 1892, Lambert’s castle is one of the area’s most popular places for engagement and wedding day pictures. This small but versatile location offers unique architecture, surrounded by beautiful trees and an excellent view of New York City. This location is great for any time of the year, visit in the summer for lush green scenery, or come in the winter time and have a snowball fight!
2. Branch Brook Park, Newark/Belleville, NJ – Located in Newark and Belleville, Branch Brook Park has the largest collection of Japanese cherry trees in the United States. With over 360 acres, and 4,000 cherry blossom trees, this park offers endless opportunities for photography. The perfect time to visit Branch Brook Park is in mid April, when the trees are in bloom, the beautiful pink and white blossoms will make a perfect background for your engagement pictures.
3. New Jersey Botanical Garden, Ringwood, NJ – The Botanical Garden in Ringwood is one of the largest and varied landscapes in the area. Over a dozen formal gardens surround the Skylands Manor, which was built in the 1920s. No two photo shoots are the same here because of the enormous variety these gardens have to offer. Visit this state park spring through autumn for a gorgeous engagement shoot backdrop.
4. Hamilton Park, Boulevard East, Weehawken, NJ – If you are looking for a view of New York City, this is one of the best around! Hamilton Park lies just north of the Lincoln Tunnel on a cliff overlooking the NYC skyline. This small park has manicured landscaping and unique features, giving you a garden setting, with a city view. Schedule an engagement shoot here in the early morning and watch the sun rise over New York City.
5. Frank Sinatra Park, Hoboken, NJ – Hoboken is the birth place of Frank Sinatra, and this park is dedicated to his memory. It’s located on Pier A, at 1st Ave and Sinatra Drive, stretching out into the Hudson River. The view of New York from here is great, and the surrounding park and Hoboken Streets offer many photo opportunities. A late day engagement shoot will provide perfect lighting and mood.
6. Liberty State Park, Jersey City, NJ – Come here any time of the year for the historic buildings, and a great view of lower Manhattan. Over 1200 acres of walkways and wide open fields are available for tons of picture taking possibilities. Visit the historic ferry terminal or take a stroll to the south end of the park and view the Statue of Liberty.
7. Central Park, Manhattan – There may not be a more diverse location in our area as Central Park in New York City. Lakes, gardens, fountains, castles, fields, wooded pathways, and city streets are all available here. This park remains a very popular choice for an engagement shoot because of it’s unique and diverse features. Any time of year is great for pictures here.
8. Belmar, NJ – Looking for something a little different? Try a beach setting for your engagement pictures! Belmar is a short drive away, and offers wide open beaches and a boardwalk. Take a stroll on the beach, write your names in the sand, and even walk into the water if you dare. Schedule an engagement shoot in the late afternoon for beautiful light during sunset.
9. Lewis Morris Park, Morristown – Take a walk off the beaten path and into the woods of Lewis Morris Park in Morristown. Summer time here offers a lush green canopy, which changes to a vibrant, colorful background in the fall. Trails run through the park’s 1100 acres, and make for a fun and unique engagement shoot. Bring your hiking boots!
10. Verona Park, Verona – Last but not least is Verona Park! Located on the corner of Bloomfield Ave. and Lakeside Ave., it’s close and easy to get to, which makes it one of the most popular parks for engagement and wedding photography in the area. Verona Lake is surrounded by fields, trees, beautiful bridges, and long winding pathways. Take a walk around the park, or rent a paddleboat and head out onto the lake!
We hope you found this information useful. Please be sure to let us know, should you have any questions related to the engagement shoot locations or photography in general. We are always very happy to help.
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