There’s something about those blooms. When the cherry trees start showing off in NYC it’s like a signal to New Yorkers that it’s time to come out of hibernation. The days get longer, the sun comes out, the daffodils and tulips emerge. Inevitably, seeing our parks bloom and grow reminds us that our children are growing and it’s time to update our family photos! I offer mini sessions in the blooms every spring and they are some of my favorite sessions of the year. So where are the best spots in NYC to take photos with the cherry blossoms?
Central park
Central Park might seem like a no-brainer, but the park is huge. Couple that with the fact that the blooms aren’t everywhere and they aren’t all out at the same time and you realize you need some insider information to nail those family photos. Last year the Central Park Conservancy started offering a bloom map, and that can be a useful way to monitor where to find them. But for a quick tip? Late March and Early April, check out the east side of the park either alongside the Reservoir or at 72nd street. Late April, head to the 80’s on the west side of the park. Just want the tulips? Try mid-April near Belvedere Castle.
Carl Schurz Park
Have shy kids? Want a more intimate setting for your family photos? Check out Carl Schurz Park on the UES in late April. The park’s central entrance has two long rows of beautiful cherry trees, and the landscaping is pretty impeccable year-round. I love photographing families in NY’s Carl Schurz Park because it offers a big variety of architecture and gardens in totally manageable size for little legs.
Battery Park/Pumphouse Park
If you call downtown/North End Avenue home (there are a lot of you!) fear not, there are lots of pretty blooms in Lower Manhattan. Battery Park offers a nice variety, but with the ongoing construction I suggest heading to Pumphouse Park in late March/Early April for the beautiful display of yoshino cherry's. The downside to the early blooms is that you made need to pack a jacket, but those delicate blossoms will warm your heart.
These are just a few great spots for family photos with a guarantee of spring blooms in your background. Want to know the secret spots? Reach out to book a session!