Spring season is photo season! Whether you’re capturing prom or graduation photos, scouting locations for wedding photos, thinking ahead to your Christmas cards, or just looking to refresh your social feeds, it’s the perfect time of year to get out there with your camera or cell phone. Read on for location inspiration in various categories—truly one-of-a-kind locations, waterfalls, iconic New York visuals, design-focused areas, and more!—and get professional photography tips from our State Parks photographer and videographer.

Iconic New York Vistas

Meet us at Montauk Point 

Located on the eastern tip of New York is the oldest lighthouse in the state and one of the oldest in the country. It doesn’t get much more iconic than Montauk Point State Park. Not designated for swimming, the beaches at this park are like paintings in a museum, meant to be enjoyed and appreciated from a safe distance. Facing both the east and the south with unobstructed views in all directions, this park is a perfect place to capture stunning sunrises and sunsets.

The Three Falls of Niagara

Perhaps the most famous falls in the world, Niagara Falls State Park welcomes more than nine million domestic and international visitors each year. From the roaring falls, which you can experience from above and below, to the Niagara Gorge Trail, there are many opportunities to photograph your experiences and special occasions at this natural wonder.

Popular locations for photographers include Terrapin Point at Horseshoe Falls, Prospect Point at American Falls, and the Cave of the Winds underneath Bridal Veil Falls.  

Gantry Plaza’s Midtown Vista

A 12-acre oasis in Long Island City, Queens, Gantry Plaza State Park sits along the shores of the East River. The gantries from which the park gets its name are a popular spot for photos, as is the vintage Pepsi-Cola sign on the park’s northern edge. But the Midtown Manhattan skyline is a true New York icon! At Gantry Plaza, visitors can pose for a snapshot in front of buildings like the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and United Nations Headquarters. The fishing piers provide unobstructed views.  

Shining Bright at Rock Island Lighthouse 

The historic Rock Island Lighthouse sits in the middle of the St. Lawrence Seaway. Just minutes from Canada and only accessible by boat, this unique state park is a popular destination for weddings and other special events. When the lighthouse isn’t hosting a special event, you can climb the tower and enjoy a bird’s eye view from the lantern room, a perfect spot for selfies. The lighthouse’s spiral staircase provides a moody location which screams art gallery submission. If you’re seeking the island aesthetic, there are plenty of vantage points showcasing the lighthouse against the American and Canadian shorelines. 

A small but mighty state park, you can’t go wrong when Rock Island is in your viewfinder. 

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Art, Architecture…and You! 

Olana: The Studio on a Hill 

Resting high above the Hudson River, Olana State Historic Site is the creation, studio and home of famous artist Frederic Edwin Church. The estate’s highlight is the Persian-inspired mansion filled with Church’s painting and sketches, but its location is inspiring. Whether your desired backdrop is Olana’s one-of-a-kind architecture or the rolling hills of the Catskill Mountains, there are several spots that are perfect for your next photo shoot.  

From the site’s miles of carriage trails, you can capture the “studio on a hill” vibe with an image that evokes a similar feeling to Church’s “Clouds Over Olana” painting. The trail around the pond and the approach to the historic home both offer great photo opportunities.

Four Freedoms’ Public Art 

On the southern edge of Roosevelt Island in the middle of the East River, FDR Four Freedoms State Park is a monument to former President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Constructed in 2012, the park was designed by architect Louis I. Kahn, who worked on public projects during the New Deal era, and features sculptures from Jo Davidson. The park’s triangular shape creates a forced perspective and draws the focus of visitors toward the colossal head of Roosevelt at the threshold to the “Room,” which holds much of the site’s public art.

With its modernist motifs, concrete and minimalist symmetry, the architecture at this state park is unlike that of any other. Within eyeshot of Gantry Plaza State Park, FDR Four Freedoms is another great location for capturing the Manhattan skyline. The complex is ideal for any kind of shoot and occasion. 

Note; planned photo shoots that are more than the occasional Instagram shot from your trusty phone do require a permit. You can learn more about this process on the park’s friends group webpage. 

The Gardens of Sonnenberg 

This list would not be complete without Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park. Everything you need to know about this site is found right in its name. One of the nation’s best-preserved 19th-century country estates, Sonnenberg’s magnificent Queen Anne mansion pairs elegantly with its gardens which draw from Victorian, Italian, Colonial, and Japanese influences.

Try the the Old Fashioned Garden, Italian Garden, and the Japanese Garden for scroll-stopping photos. 

The Gardens of Planting Fields Arboretum 

The former Long Island Gold Coast estate of the W.R. Coe family, Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park is a dream. Spanning more than 400 acres, Planting Fields is rife with nature walks through rolling lawns, gardens, woodlands, and even two greenhouses. Cherry trees line the trails and bloom with spectacular shades of pink in the spring. See what’s in bloom and plan your trip around your favorite flowers, colors, and scents.

The Synoptic Garden, Pool Garden, and miles of nature trails are popular with locals, tourists, and photographers alike. 

Note: photo shoots that are more than snapshots require a permit. You can learn more about this process on the park’s webpage. 

— Written by Jennifer Robilotto, Public Affairs Assistant

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Chasing Waterfalls, Chasing Photos

Magic at Watkins Glen State Park  

In the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes region, Watkins Glen State Park is a natural wonderland that mesmerizes visitors. As you hike along the park’s Gorge Trail, you are greeted by a series of cascading waterfalls, each with its own unique charm. The trail winds through a gorge that was carved by glaciers, a dramatic display of nature’s artistry. Watkins Glen makes the perfect backdrop for portraits. The endless stone walkways, flowing pools of water, and mossy gorge walls will transport any photo subject into a mystical scene of natural beauty. 

Note: Effective July 7, 2025, the main tunnel entrance and Sentry Bridge at the beginning of the Gorge Trail will be closed due to construction. Access to the South Rim Trail will also be closed at the main entrance entry point, however accessible from all other entry point during this construction work.

Untamed Awosting Falls at Minnewaska 

Nestled within the rugged beauty of the Shawangunk ridge, Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a must-see, with its waterfalls being a highlight of this landscape. The cascading waters of Awosting Falls offer breathtaking views for any photographer. This 65+-foot waterfall is an accessible location for portraits, regardless of season. 

Fall For Mine Kill Falls 

Mine Kill State Park, located in the scenic Schoharie Valley, is a worthwhile stop for folks looking to snap some stunning shots for their social feeds. Mine Kill Falls cascades 80 feet through a narrow gorge and pours out into a glistening pool of water. The moss-covered rock walls create a lush background for photographs at the base of the falls. For a more panoramic view, check out the falls from the overlook viewing platforms above the falls. 

Drop In at Taughannock  

Taughannock Falls State Park’s namesake waterfall is one of the outstanding natural attractions of the Northeast and one of the tallest waterfalls in New York State. The Falls plunge 215 feet past rocky cliffs that tower nearly 400 feet above the gorge. Looking to capture the beauty on your camera? Make sure to check out the spectacular views from both above and below the falls along the gorge and rim trails.

Robert Treman is Gorges

Robert H. Treman State Park features winding trails along the gorge alongside the twelve waterfalls on property, including the 115-foot iconic Lucifer Falls. Enfield Falls, also known as Lower Falls, is the most recognizable of the dozen waterfalls due to its swimming area. With plenty of locations along the gorge trails to choose from, this park is ideal for portraits.

Photo-Worthy Letchworth 

At Letchworth State Park, the “Grand Canyon of the East,” the Genesee River roars through the gorge over three major waterfalls between cliffs — as high as 600 feet in some places — surrounded by lush forests. Whether you’re taking pictures from the base of the falls or soaring over them in a hot air balloon, the views are endless and here all year long. 

— Written by Jewel Slade, Marketing Specialist

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One-Of-A-Kind Locations

Saratoga Spa State Park’s Hall of Springs  

The exterior of Saratoga Spa State Park’s Hall of Springs is the perfect setting for regal-looking snaps that will make your followers wonder if you’re in Europe… or upstate New York. Designed by Joseph H. Freedlander in 1932, the dramatic architecture features pillars, archways, temple fronts, an arcade, and elaborate windows, all likely inspired by Late Renaissance Italian architect Andrea Palladio. To get to this special spot, follow signs for Saratoga Spa State Park, and then Avenue of The Pines. 

Marsha P. Johnson State Park’s “Pay It No Mind” Arch   

Pay this some mind, Instagrammers! The ornamental entrance gateway at Marsha P. Johnson State Park in Brooklyn is not to be missed. Intended to communicate Marsha P. Johnson’s spirit and legacy as an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and HIV/AIDS treatment while also complementing the park and surrounding neighborhood, the gateway features a bold and artful floral design akin to headpieces that Johnson was known to wear. Plan your photoshoot and make your way to the Kent Avenue/North Eighth Street park entrance. 

The Spires of Chimney Bluffs State Park

If you’ve been to Chimney Bluffs State Park, you know that the terrain and rock formations can feel otherworldly. Serving as an ideal photo backdrop to keep your followers guessing, the dramatic Lake Ontario landscape in Wolcott showcases massive earthen spires that can be accessed along the Bluff Trail. Day-use services include picnic areas and restrooms in case you dare to experience this breathtaking location where land and water compete for your attention. 

Green Lakes State Park‘s Glacial Lakes

Featuring two unique meromictic lakes that are a remarkable shade of blue, Green Lakes State Park is one of many natural wonders you can find across the Empire State! The view from its 18-hole golf course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, is worth the visit to grab some great photos of the lakes. But the park is more than a pretty face. With its 10 miles of trails, education center, overnight offerings and more, Green Lakes is a gem to be explored in Fayetteville, just outside Syracuse. 

Center of the Walkway Over the Hudson

Aside from being wildly historic, the Hudson River is beautiful at all times of year. Lucky for Hudson Valley residents and visitors, Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park offers the opportunity to see it from a unique vantage point – above the very river itself. The longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world, Walkway Over the Hudson connects Highland and Poughkeepsie and is a must-see and must-photograph for anyone traveling in or through Ulster or Dutchess counties. 

Washington’s HQ State Historic Site’s Tower of Victory

Nestled in the city of Newburgh, Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site is the nation’s first publicly owned historic site and full of options to get interesting snapshots. Touring the Hasbrouck House where Revolutionary War history was made is an experience in its own right, but if you’re looking for a powerful backdrop, take a tour of the Tower of Victory and climb the steps to the newly restored belvedere as well. Don’t forget to put in your caption that this location is where the Badge of Military Merit, forerunner of the Purple Heart, was created. 

— Written by Lacey Seidman, Deputy Public Information Officer

Nothing But Nature

Beyond The Falls: Whirlpool and Devil’s Hole State Parks

Discover the beauty and power of the Niagara Gorge as you explore the scenic trails and rapids of the Niagara River. Travel along the Niagara Rim Trail spanning 6.2 miles from Artpark to Niagara Falls State Park for spectacular overlooks of the Niagara River and gorge. Hike to the base of the gorge and get closer to the rapids by traveling down the stone staircases at either Whirlpool Rapids Trail (1.7 miles) or Devil’s Hole Trail (1.5 miles). Please note, the Whirlpool Rapids Trail is considered challenging due to the steep terrain and the trail is only maintained up to the flats. Check the Parks website or Explorer app for updated information on any trail closures and updates.

Towering Views at Bear Mountain State Park

Traverse the Appalachian Trail at Bear Mountain State Park to the top of Perkins Memorial Tower, affording spectacular views of the park and surrounding Hudson Valley. On a clear day you can even see the New York City skyline. For those that don’t want to hike, Perkins Memorial Drive is open for vehicle access from April through late November, weather permitting. Add a little extra to your journey by walking around Hessian Lake and visiting the Trailside Museum & Zoo, which is the lowest elevation along the entire Appalachian Trail.

Thacher State Park Rocks!

About 30 minutes outside of Albany, Thacher State Park is situated along the Helderberg Escarpment, one of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world. Explore the roughly 2.5-mile Escarpment Trail for a marvelous panorama of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys, Adirondacks and Green Mountains. For early risers, the Overlook at Thacher is a great location to watch the sunrise. Thacher is also home to over 25 miles of additional trails for hiking, including the popular Indian Ladder Trail, passing beneath ledges and waterfalls. The Indian Ladder Trail is open seasonally from spring to early fall, weather permitting. Be sure to stop by the Visitor Center for more information about the park’s geological and historical importance to the region.

— Written by Tyler Wilcox, Community Relations Representative

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Now that you know where to go, how do you make your photos shine once you get there? New York State Parks photographer Brian Styk has over a decade of experience and shares some basic tips to up your photography game.

Because most people use their phones to capture photos, these tips will be based on using a smartphone camera, but some are applicable to all cameras.  

Preparation  

Before you capture any photos, set yourself up for success.   

First, make sure your lens is clean. I prefer using a microfiber cloth, especially on a professional lens. If you’re working with a phone, you can use any clean piece of cloth or even your own shirt to clean your lens.  

Second, adjust your settings. To get the most out of your camera, select the highest megapixels (MP) your camera settings allow. I also recommend turning on your grid or rule of thirds, which are guides to help with framing. You can also turn on your level to ensure your phone or camera is balanced.   

Finally, adjust your screen brightness so you can see details in the dark areas.  

Composition  

Now that you’re ready, you’ll need to understand the basics of composition: how to place people, objects, and landscapes within your frame.  

Remember the rule of thirds I mentioned? If you turned on your grid, you’ll see lines on your screen that guide your composition.   

When taking landscape photos, figure out where your horizon is. Avoid placing the horizon in the middle of the frame. Let’s say you’re at Niagara Falls and you want the focus to be on the falls, not the sky. In this case, place the horizon on the first horizontal line from the top of the frame.

If you want to see more of the sky, place the horizon on the first horizontal line from the bottom of the frame, like this photo from Bear Mountain State Park (above).

When taking photos of a person, keep their eyes on the top horizontal line. If they’re looking straight at the camera, position them in the middle of the frame. If they’re looking to the right of the frame, position their body on the left vertical line. And if they’re facing to the left of the frame, position them on the right vertical line. This creates lead room, meaning there is space within the frame in the direction that the subject is looking. 

Environment  

Weather and time of day play a big role in how your photos turn out. Clear skies allow the sun to provide warm color tones, but they can also create too much contrast. Clouds soften the sunlight and reduce overall contrast, providing even lighting on your images. You won’t get those warm tones from the sun, but you will get an evenly lit scenic view.   

Golden hour (the hour just after sunrise and just before sunset) is the best time to capture photos of both people and landscapes. This is when the sun is closest to the horizon and casts a soft glow over the environment, reducing the contrast of shadows and drenching the landscape in warmer tones.   

Shapes and Patterns 

Use natural shapes and patterns in the environment to achieve symmetry or focus on a specific point of the frame. A perfect example is a technique called leading lines. This is when you use elements in the frame to lead the viewer’s eye to your subject.

Let’s say you want to take a photo of someone at the end of a trail like these visitors at Whirlpool State Park (above). If you back up a bit and add more foreground to the bottom of the frame, you show more of the trail, which leads up to your subject.

This also applies to landscapes, as in this photo from the overlook at Taughannock Falls State Park. By placing the camera lower to the ground and looking at the falls from the top of the staircase, the stone staircase elements form natural leading lines to attract the viewer’s eye to the falls.  

Depth 

To make your photos more interesting, add some layers to the foreground of your frame to give your image depth. Take this photo from Olana State Historic Site. The trees in front of the mansion, including the dark branches in the foreground on the left side of the frame, make the image more three-dimensional and less flat.

Overall, it’s important to let your creativity and curiosity allow you to experiment with the infinite ways of capturing an image. Play around with different perspectives. Ask yourself what your subject may look like from another angle. Capture any color, shape, or pattern that sparks your interest. Go on adventures to see what our parks look like at various times of day and don’t let those clouds discourage you! Go out and capture those special moments. You may be surprised with what you come up with.

— Written by Brian Styk, Photographer and Videographer, Public Affairs

All uncredited photos courtesy of OPRHP Staff.