THE BEST NEW YORK STATE PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS

We have personally visited and explored these unique photography locations in New York. You will find great recommendations for creating stunning photos, insider tips on where to eat and stay, and essential information for planning your trip to these sought-after destinations. You can use our guide if you’d like to know where to photograph near your location.

Here are some of the places we have traveled to and photographed. Each article provides details of the photography areas.

CLICK EACH PICTURE OR TITLE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE.

Catskill, Castle

Watkins Glen State Park

Lake George photography sunset, reflecting on the water.

Lake Placid

Ausable Chasm

Kaaterskill Falls

Roscoe NY photography of a bus with the Milky Way in the sky.

Roscoe, Milky Way

Castle Ghost Hunt

Adirondacks

NEW YORK CITY PHOTOGRAPHY AREAS

New York is overflowing with unique and captivating photography locations, each offering a new perspective and endless opportunities for artistic expression. From towering skyscrapers to quaint cobblestone streets and sprawling parks to iconic landmarks, the city’s diverse landscape provides photographers with a never-ending supply of inspiration.

City Image to the right: Shot by Pamela Goodyer during Fashion Week from the hotel window.

UPSTATE NEW YORK PHOTOGRAPHY AREAS

There are a vast number of good photography areas in the Upstate area.

Natural Stone Bridge and cave New York photography.

The Natural Stone Bridge and Caves

We traveled here in 2012 with our friend Carol. We had an absolute blast here. We’re both explorers. There were running waters for long exposure photography. There was a cave that we ventured into. This was long ago and we didn’t have an extra wide-angle lens so we didn’t get the full picture of the natural stone bridge. You can also stitch some images together to get the picture. 535 Stone Bridge Rd, Pottersville, NY – WEBSITE

Stroll along the self-guided nature trail above ground during the summer months to witness the breathtaking display of ancient Adirondack geology. This rustic trail of stone steps and gravel will lead you to various points of interest, such as the old Sawmill Site Waterfalls, Artists’ Gorge, impressive potholes, and multiple surface caves. Photograph the lighted caves and grottos, with raging waters and peaceful dark pools. The Park is CLOSED: Mid-October to mid-December and March to Late May.

THE GORGE

Explore all the natural wonders of this breathtaking location and take some time to shop at the on-site gift shop. Located just a short drive from Lake Placid and only one mile from Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort, High Falls Gorge is an ideal stop for any length of time, whether you have half a day or just half an hour. With sturdy bridges, glass floor walkways (available during summer), and well-maintained paths, people of all ages can easily photograph High Falls Gorge.

4761 Route 86, Wilmington

(518) 946-2278

www.highfallsgorge.com

St Mary's rectory scary looking picture.

EPISCOPAL OF SAINT MARY’S COVENANT – PEEKSKILL, NY

We traveled here back in 2011 (photo). We found the convent was haunted. Apparition showed up in one of our staff’s pictures. It appears that the location is now a hotel. So bring your ghost hunting gear with you when you go here. If you go in the early evening after the sun goes down, you can do ghost hunting. It’s now The Abbey Inn. Tell them we said it’s haunted when you get there, or did the construction disturb the apparitions?

LAKE GEORGE

Lake George is conveniently accessible from major cities like NYC, Boston, and Montreal. It is located off of I-87. Take Route 87 (NYS Thruway) to Exit 24, continue north, and take I-87 (The Adirondack Northway) north. There are multiple exits: 18 – 26.

Cascades Lake in New York showing the boats and a dock.

CASCADE LAKE, ADIRONDACKS

The beautiful Cascade Lakes region is located in Keene Valley. This area is full of winding roads and breathtaking mountains. Getting extremely dynamic, jaw-dropping photography in the lake areas is a little challenging. You must be prepared, so bring your tripod for macro images. But you will enjoy being at one with nature at this spot. It is located south of Lake Placid along Route 73.

EXPLORING THE BEAUTY OF NEW YORK

The best places to do photography in New York. Here are some of the highlights:

1. Central Park:

This iconic park in the heart of Manhattan is a must-visit for anyone interested in capturing the energy of New York.

Living in New Jersey makes it a breeze for us to visit the city. However, we tend to prefer the unspoiled beauty of Mother Earth in its natural state, without the influence of humans. Therefore, our activities were limited during our visit and focused on the inner city.

2. Niagara Falls:

One of the most famous natural wonders in the world, Niagara Falls is a paradise. Whether you’re looking to capture the misty spray of the falls or the colorful foliage in the surrounding area, there is no shortage of beautiful shots. Before going, be sure to know how to do long-exposure milky water photography.

3. The Adirondacks:

With over six million acres of natural beauty, the Adirondacks offer endless opportunities for beautiful images. From the majestic peaks of the High Peaks region to the peaceful lakes and streams scattered throughout the park, there’s something for every nature lover here.

4. The Catskills:

This picturesque region is home to some of the state’s most scenic drives and hikes, making it a prime location. The rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant fall foliage make for breathtaking shots. Bring your tripod for the waterfalls and running streams.

5. The Finger Lakes:

This region is known for its stunning glacial lakes and vineyards. The small towns and quaint villages in the area also offer charming subjects for street photography. A college campus and Watkins Glen State Park are in this area to visit.

6. Hudson Valley:

Located just north of New York City, the Hudson Valley boasts beautiful views of the Hudson River and historic sites like West Point and the Vanderbilt Mansion. The region is also home to many charming towns and farms, making it an excellent location.

The Ultimate New York State Photography Guide

From the vibrant energy of a bustling metropolis to the quiet, rolling landscapes beyond its center, every creative mind will find inspiration. If you aim to immortalize renowned sites or uncover discreet treasures, our guide leads you to premier settings across diverse terrains. Prepare your gear and embark on an adventure that transforms everyday scenes into extraordinary memories.

New York City

The city is a playground for those drawn to dynamic image making, offering countless opportunities to seize its energetic rhythm. Landmark intersections and towering edifices form a canvas for innovative compositions; wander through an iconic park or venture onto a historic suspension bridge to secure dramatic skyline perspectives. Experiment with strategies such as long exposures or inventive framing to encapsulate the relentless spirit of a city that never sleeps. It’s a journey that not only hones your skills in photography but also deepens your connection with the urban heartbeat.

Scenic Enclaves

This region offers natural havens perfect for breathtaking vistas. Rugged mountain ranges, majestic waterfalls, cliffside paths overlooking winding rivers, and serene coastal stretches await your discovery. Each unique panorama invites you to immerse yourself in pristine nature and transform its ever-changing beauty into lasting works of art.

When to Go

Timing is key to elevating an image into art. Early mornings and twilight hours provide soft, diffused light that warms over busy streets and pastoral expanses. Schedule your sessions during these enchanting moments to harness the delicate interplay of light and shadow on every scene.

Equipment and Gear

As a photographer in New York, having the right equipment and gear can make a big difference in capturing stunning shots. Here are some recommendations to ensure you’re prepared for your photography adventure in the Empire State. First, invest in a good DSLR or mirrorless camera for manual control and interchangeable lenses. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the cityscape, while telephoto lenses are perfect for wildlife or capturing distant subjects. Don’t forget a sturdy tripod for those long exposures or low-light situations. Bring extra batteries, memory cards, and lens filters for different lighting conditions. Last, pack a comfortable camera bag to carry all your gear while exploring the diverse photography locations in New York. With the right equipment, you’ll be ready to photograph the beauty of the State like a pro!

Thank you to Willie Hall, Fashion Designer Extraordinaire, for inviting us to Fashion Week.

She has worked on celebrity garments such as Elizabeth Taylor and Stevie Nicks, and sketched for Michael Jackson and others. She has also been featured in The New York Post, Heart and Soul, Grace Today, Versus of Virginia, Virginia Pilot Newspaper, Sheen Magazine, DAMM Magazine, New York Fashion Week, Virginia Fashion Week, Miami Fashion Week, and behind-the-scenes of Project Runway. Courtesy of BTE-TV, I received the Designer of the Year Award in 2009. April 4th, 2011, she was featured in Jet Magazine, 2012 Fashion Avenue News, I-Fashion Magazine, and Local newspapers in her community.

More Places to Do Photography