The late American poet and critic Ezra Pound once said: “And New York is the most beautiful city in the world? It is not far from it. No urban night is like the night there… Squares after squares of flame, set up and cut into the aether. Here is our poetry, for we have pulled down the stars to our will.” There is without a doubt something distinctly magical about New York City. The city’s enchanting, magnetic energy appeals strongly to the creativity of both amateur and professional photographers, making NYC one of the most photographed cities in the world. The city that never sleeps is also conveniently filled with countless tourist attractions, experiences, and people that provide superb opportunities to take breath-taking photographs.
DUMBO’s is a photographer’s dream
While Manhattan has a certain opulent charm to it, some of the most striking photographs of NYC are actually taken in Brooklyn. The area known as DUMBO (Down Under Manhattan Bridge Underpass) is one of many Brooklyn-based hotspots for tourists and photographers alike. On any given day you will undoubtedly find a horde people queuing up to take selfies from a spot on Washington Street where you get a perfect view of the Washington Bridge with the Manhattan skyline in the background with the legs of the bridge framing the Empire State Building in the background perfectly. While you are in Brooklyn, also head on over to the Pearl Street pocket park which is another great location for budding photographers to put their skills to the test in.
The Brooklyn Bridge is picture-perfect
The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest roadway bridges in the country and a true New York City icon. Most of the most popular buildings in NYC, including the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, can be seen from the bridge along with exquisite panoramic views across the city from downtown all the way to mid-town. The bridge is so popular that it is often depicted on postcards, in coffee table books, and as wall art. A series of images of the bridge showcasing different views and angles can create a striking piece of wall art, especially when combined into a photo collage. Just remember that the Brooklyn Bridge is a suspension bridge, so do not even attempt to get a long-exposure shot of the bridge due to the constant vibrations brought on by the passing traffic. Other popular tourist hotspots that make for superb photographs is the One World Trade, Central Park and, of course, the Statue of Liberty.
Don’t miss out on the more obscure gems in the city
While the biggest tourist attractions in the Big Apple will also be a hit among photographers, there are countless less-obvious locations that are equally as photo-worthy. One such a gem is the Morgan Library that houses a beautiful collection of artifacts and manuscripts of historical importance. Although tripods are not permitted in the museum, handheld devices are and you will undoubtedly be able to take some amazing photographs. If it is controlled chaos you are after, head on over to Grand Central Station where you can indulge in the most amazing long-exposure photography. Other places that are well worth visiting include two of the Big Apple’s most buzzing cultural hubs, Little Italy and the ever-intriguing China Town.
New York City is filled with magical places and fascinating people just waiting to be immortalized on photographs, Whether you are a seasoned photographer or just enjoy taking photos for fun, the city that never sleeps will without a doubt fill you with heaps of creative inspiration.
