New York City is an amazingly photogenic backdrop—no wonder you can scarcely turn a corner in this town without running into a movie shoot. As a film school grad myself, I'm continually inspired by the city's versatility. From scenic parks to urban texture to character-filled cafés and storefronts, NYC is a fantastic photo studio, perfect for showcasing your family.
When crafting an authentic family portrait, I try to pick places where the family members spend time in their day-to-day lives, such as their home, a nearby restaurant or playground, or a special place where kids can be themselves. That said, there are also lovely locations that I frequently suggest where I can get creative shots that tell a unique story about my subjects. Each spot has its own unique benefits, and I've highlighted six of them here, and used my photographs to illustrate how lovely they are.
1. The streets of Tribeca
When I first moved to Manhattan many years ago, I worked on a film that had its production office in Tribeca, and ever since then I've loved shooting in this neighborhood. The juxtaposition of a child in an entirely urban environment makes for extra-dynamic shots. It's such a cool way to tell the story of a city kid! Tribeca has lots of small side streets with cobblestones, and even alleyways that get little to no traffic, that make for great backgrounds. Of course you should pay special attention when photographing your kids on the street!
2. The High Line
Whenever I look at photos taken on this elevated park, I'm struck by the brilliance of its design. The landscaping is wonderfully integrated and natural, and its curves and turns create lots of different places to play. Kids love that the benches slope down to the ground on one side—they can simply walk right up them! The High Line gives the look and feel of being in an urban setting if you situate your shot with some buildings in the frame. And with Section 2 opening this week, there will be even more cool spots for photo ops.
3. Central Park
Been there, done that? Think again! I shoot in Central Park
several times a year, and the photos never turn out the same. The breadth and density of the park provides an amazing variety of backdrops, and the changing of the seasons reinvent locales again and again. Some especially gorgeous places are the Conservatory Garden (enter at 105th and Fifth Avenue) and the Shakespeare Garden (enter at 79th and Central Park West). The nearby Belvedere Castle is situated on the gorgeous Great Lawn with plenty of room for kids to run around.
4. Battery Park
If you're not familiar with the neighborhood, be sure to allot extra time to explore the waterfront in order to find the spots that speak to you. If you start at the southern tip of Manhattan and stroll uptown along the Hudson River, you'll pass some gorgeous gardens and picturesque willow trees before arriving at intricate bridges and rock gardens. If you start near the Winter Garden and head north, you'll see more contemporary structures and end up near the wonderful playgrounds by River Terrace. This is an especially nice place to watch the sun set, so consider capturing your family's shadows as they grow longer along the riverfront.
5. Dumbo
From bridge to bridge, the waterfront in Dumbo provides some amazing options for scenic skyline shots, as well as lots of room for little ones to roam. For really dramatic photos, arrive in the morning or just before sunset. While you're in the neighborhood, snap some pictures while walking along the cobblestone streets, or at the dock near lighthouse-turned-parlor Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory. You can even try capturing that famous shot on Washington Street, where an arch of the Manhattan Bridge perfectly frames the Empire State Building in the distance. Just be warned: You'll probably have to wait in line!
6. Broadway in South Williamsburg
Recently, I photographed a three-year-old boy on this striking block, and he was completely enthralled with the elevated train. In fact, it provided almost a full hour of amusement while I snapped away with my camera. It's a very photo-friendly spot (across from Peter Luger, in case you want to plan for lunch), with historic buildings like the former HSBC bank. You may want to experiment with angles and see if you can get the Williamsburg Bridge lined up in your shot.
Whichever location you choose, remember to check your batteries and memory cards before heading out. I recommend bringing extra people with you to help, if possible. Also, have snacks, beverages, toys and a big dose of patience, just in case your little subjects need some extra love.
Sarah Sloboda is a family heirloom photographer based in New York City,
specializing in environmental portraits shot on location. Her credits include The New York Times, New York Magazine and Wondertime, to name a few.
All images © Sarah Sloboda 2009-2011