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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to New York

Interesting spots for photography

Made for those who wander the city with a camera in hand, constantly hunting for the next visually compelling subject.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
DUMBO Manhattan Bridge View image 1
DUMBO Manhattan Bridge View image 2
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Cobblestone streets and brick warehouses create a lively atmosphere with iconic views of the Manhattan Bridge and Brooklyn Bridge at sunset. Parks and green spaces offer scenic walking paths and spots for quiet reflection. Art installations and markets add cultural appeal and community energy.

Views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge at sunset offer iconic shots. This spot captures the charm of Brooklyn perfectly for photography enthusiasts.

View of the Manhattan Bridge stands out as the most interesting feature here. The overall setting feels unique and engaging.

People are saying

"The Manhattan Bridge view framed by brick buildings is iconic."

"This spot is a photography paradise with its industrial-chic backdrop."

"The view of the Manhattan Bridge framed by buildings is interesting."

Good to know

1

St. Ann's Warehouse hosts various artistic events, including theater and concerts.

2

Walking back via the Brooklyn Bridge offers stunning views and is highly recommended.

3

Arrive early in the morning or late in the evening for the best photo opportunities.

02
B&H Photo Video image 1
Electronics store

Huge electronics store offers a spacious layout with interesting displays and gear to try out. The atmosphere mixes a calm, welcoming vibe with periods of crowded energy. Advanced features like a conveyor belt system and concierge service enhance the shopping experience.

Offers a vast selection of professional photography equipment and supplies. Serves as a reliable source for photography and video gear for decades.

Displays showcase a wide range of photo printing gear and electronics. Classes on bird photography add an educational touch, while after-sales service supports ongoing needs.

People are saying

"This place is like heaven for a photography hobbyist."

"This place is a cool super store with everything you could imagine."

"I found the store's displays and gear to try out really interesting."

Good to know

1

They have free parking for B&H customers.

2

B&H offers competitive pricing and frequent promotions.

3

The online shopping experience at B&H is well-organized and user-friendly.

03
Soho Photo Gallery image 1

Small, intimate space showcases fine art photography with diverse, ever-changing exhibits. Friendly, welcoming atmosphere attracts photographers and art lovers alike. Unlike typical galleries, it maintains a non-snobby vibe that encourages absorption into the work.

A sincere gallery dedicated to fine art photography offers a focused space for photography enthusiasts. It serves as a photography haven with carefully curated exhibits.

Small, intimate space invites close engagement with interesting exhibitions that draw you in fully.

People are saying

"I found the photography exhibits here truly inspiring."

"The photography galleries here are a true gem with amazing exhibits."

"I loved the diverse and unique photography exhibits here."

Good to know

1

Members can participate in unique exhibitions and events at the gallery.

2

The exhibits are diverse and change regularly, offering fresh experiences.

04
Top of The Rock image 1
Observation deck

Observation deck offers 360° panoramic views with a clear sightline to the Empire State Building and Central Park. Multiple outdoor terraces provide an unobstructed skyline experience with a lively atmosphere, especially at night. Elevators feature interactive visuals enhancing the ascent, while rooftop amenities include a small cafe and bar serving tasty cocktails.

Outdoor viewing areas offer unobstructed views and multiple levels, providing great opportunities for photography.

An interesting video presentation covers the history before the climb. The 360° panorama offers a unique view of the city. The historical tour includes an engaging projection in the theater.

People are saying

"The views from here are amazing and iconic."

"I found the history of Top of the Rock really interesting."

"The city lights turning on at sunset make for stunning photography."

Good to know

1

Make sure to show up about 10 minutes before to not risk missing your scheduled time.

2

To get the sunset view, you must reserve in advance.

3

Admission to Top of the Rock is priced from $50 per person.

05
The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in New York City image 1

Recreated sets include Central Perk sofa, Monica's apartment, and iconic props like a yellow New York taxi and Phoebe’s taxi. Atmosphere feels immersive and relaxed, with opportunities for unlimited photos and interactive displays. Visitors often enjoy photo ops and detailed memorabilia that bring the show’s world to life.

The experience centers on photography opportunities with setups designed for solo shots. Jada's energy and skills add to the creative vibe.

The collection features original props, costumes, and sets that stand out for their uniqueness. Each room offers curiosities and videos that make the experience very interesting and well organized.

People are saying

"It's a fun, interactive experience that makes you feel part of the show."

"The recreated sets and props are amazing and interesting to look at."

"Jada's energy and photography skills made our experience great."

Good to know

1

You don’t enter the actual experience until an hour after showing up.

2

The wait time is over an hour.

3

They do not accept cash.

06
Times Square image 1

Plaza buzzes with bright lights and massive digital billboards that create a unique vibe day and night. Crowds gather around live street performances and entertainers, filling the space with constant energy and diverse languages. A large staircase offers a spot to rest and take in the vibrant scene.

Bright lights and bustling streets create dynamic scenes for photography. The Circle 360 experience offers a unique way to capture the area from all angles.

Broadway theaters and famous shops cluster nearby, with street performers adding to the lively scene. The area feels busy and always has something interesting happening.

People are saying

"It's so lively with all the bright lights and hustle and bustle."

"It's an interesting place, full of lights and screens."

"This place is a great spot for photography hobby with its dazzling lights and energetic crowds."

Good to know

1

Expect large crowds during the New Year's celebration in Times Square.

2

Avoid visiting Times Square on weekends due to heavy foot traffic.

3

Be cautious of costumed characters asking for money after taking photos.

07
One World Observatory image 1
Observation deck

Observation deck offers 360-degree unobstructed views of the city and surrounding areas. Ultra-fast elevators feature immersive LCD screens showing skyline history, enhancing the ascent experience. Amenities include a sky portal for looking down at streets below and food and drink options at the top floor.

Views from about 390 meters offer ideal photography on clear, sunny days. Glare behind glass makes capturing both foreground and background tricky, affecting camera focus.

An iPad guided tour offers detailed views of the skyline. A free show shares many interesting facts about New York and Manhattan. The 47-second skypod ride provides a unique perspective.

People are saying

"The views from the top are breathtaking and amazing."

"The view is breathtaking, with a panorama of the entire city."

"The panoramic views are ideal for photography hobby."

Good to know

1

Tickets to One World Observatory cost $44 for adults.

2

The Observation Deck entrance is on the West Street side of the building.

3

The entrance to the observatory is through the underground lobby of the One World Trade Center.

08
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt image 1

Observation deck offers 360° panoramic views of the city skyline, including close-up sights of iconic buildings. Interactive features like a balloon room and mirrored installations create a unique, immersive atmosphere. A small cafe and cocktail bar provide refreshments while guests enjoy the spectacular cityscape.

Photography opportunities blend with art, technology, and architecture here. Guest experience personnel offer expert guidance and a photography package that enhances the visit, though buying it in advance may cause issues.

Fun and interactive illusions create a lively experience. The floating cloud screen adds a unique visual element that keeps things interesting.

People are saying

"The city views here are spectacular, especially with the mirror effects."

"The 360-degree panorama of Manhattan from above is interesting."

"The views here are spectacular, perfect for photography hobbyists."

Good to know

1

Tickets should be booked in advance as the attraction is very crowded.

2

If you want to see the sunset, book your timeslot at least an hour earlier.

3

You must make a reservation and arrive at least 15 minutes before your check-in time.

09
Edge Observatory image 1
Observatory

Observation deck features breathtaking 360° views of Manhattan, the Hudson River, and beyond from the 100th floor. An outdoor terrace with a glass floor offers a unique sensation of being suspended high above the city. Crowds often create a busy atmosphere, with long waits for elevators and packed spaces.

Ideal for photography enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline rush, the observatory offers unique views. Nighttime shots through windows face challenges from interior reflections that affect clarity.

The glass part of the observatory offers a unique view. The overall experience at Edge Observatory feels interesting and engaging.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful, incredible views of NYC."

"The views from the observation deck are impeccable for photography."

"The view from up here is really interesting and unparalleled."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times at the Edge Observatory.

2

Expect about an hour wait for the elevator during peak times.

3

Visiting at sunset offers stunning views of the city lights.

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