Have you ever looked at a photo of yourself and thought that it doesn’t make you look great?

I have plenty of those! There are certain photos of myself that don’t make me feel awesome or that are super unflattering. As a photographer it is my job to make sure that anyone who comes into my studio for my services will leave with amazing photos.

And after a lot of trial and error, there is one solution I discovered that no one ever speaks about and assumes that this will be taken care of. But I beg to differ! Especially if you want to have your photos look amazing.

The solution is the location.

Whenever clients show me inspiration photos of how they want their session to look, not only am I looking at the wardrobe and makeup. I’m also looking at the location because that tells the story of the entire photograph.

When you look at advertisements on billboards or on the train ride to work, you see images of models in so many different backgrounds. This sets the mood and the message of either the product or the person.

Having a scenic background can make your photos look amazing!

You can totally use this concept in your every day photos whenever you are out with your friends, family or significant other. Instead of taking photos in places that will be distractive or unflattering, you can find a peaceful location to walk around and enjoy.

Now being how I live in New York City, I know how crazy it can be to find even a moment of solitude. But after traveling all over this beautiful city of mine, I was able to find some hidden treasures that have helped me create great photos for my clients.

Here are top 5 places that will make your photos pop:

1. Forest Park

This is the park where I first started to create my images. It’s located in Queens and it is such a hidden gem. It is such a huge park that varies from abandon train tracks, to a huge football field, to forest trail and even a Carousel – this place has so many sights to see. This park is indeed a personal favorite of mine 🙂 (click here for more info)

2. Top of the Rock

This has been advertised for tourists to go to when they arrive in New York for the first time, but I think it’s great for NYC natives as well! Many natives have never even heard of this place!! Top Of The Rock is an observation deck at the top of Rockefeller Center where you overlook the entire city! It’s such an incredible view have always made such an impact on photographs of people. Taking a photo with the entire city behind you = a memorable shot! (click here for more info)

3. Astoria Park

This park is located in Queens and sits right next to the Robert F Kennedy Bridge. You can walk along the park on Shore Boulevard and see a beautiful view of the city. It almost feels like you are just inches away from Manhattan! It’s really great for picnics and to take beautiful photos with the bridge in the background. (click here for more info)

4. Belvedere Castle

Deep inside the beautiful and iconic Central Park in New York City, lies a castle. Yepp I said it, a castle! From private weddings to fashion shoots for Vogue, Belvedere Castle has been an always will be the go to place for enchanted and whimsical photos. Just going there is such a treat and from personal experience, the photos you get will always come out looking beautiful! (click here for more info)

4. Untermyer Gardens

This place just blown me away! Untermeyer Park which is in Yonkers, NY is an enormous place filled with historical buildings and acres upon acres of land. With numerous of gardens and temples, you feel as though you are in another world. It is such a beautiful place to be in no matter what season and there have been millions of weddings and photo shoots taken at Untermyer. (click here for more info)

I hope these places will give you incredible experiences and the confidence to take awesome photos of yourself! Having a beautiful background in your images truly makes a difference!

I mean think about it: would you rather have a bathroom selfie with a shower curtain behind you or a portrait with the entire New York City skyline behind you? There’s no debate there.

Now it’s your time to shine!

In the comments below, let me know what are you favorite places to explore and take pictures. Where was the most beaitufl place you’ve ever been and had a great photo of yourself?

I’d love to hear your story!

See you later,

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