A Magical Proposal at Rockefeller Ice Rink: Love, Cheers, and “Moves Like Jagger”

New York City is always buzzing with energy during the holiday season, but few places capture the magic quite like the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink. This past December, I had the honor of photographing an unforgettable proposal at this iconic location—complete with twinkling lights, a cheering crowd, and the unexpected but fitting soundtrack of “Moves Like Jagger” playing in the background.

A Surprise on the Ice

The couple took to the ice for what seemed like a casual skating session, gliding under the glow of the towering Christmas tree. Little did she know, her partner had planned something extraordinary. As the familiar beat of “Moves Like Jagger” filled the air, he took her by the hand, skated to the center, and dropped to one knee. The rink fell into a hush for a split second before erupting into cheers as she gasped, covering her face in shock and joy.

With the city skyline as their witness and the rink’s onlookers cheering them on, she said yes! It was a moment of pure magic, frozen in time—literally and figuratively.

Capturing the Joy

After the proposal, we took a short walk around Rockefeller Plaza for an impromptu engagement session. The glow of the holiday lights provided the perfect romantic backdrop. We captured a mix of candid laughter, warm embraces, and classic NYC moments—against the decorated windows of Saks Fifth Avenue, under the sparkling angels lining the Channel Gardens, and even with a few twirls on Fifth Avenue.

The excitement of the moment was palpable in every frame. The couple’s energy was infectious, and their love story was made even more special by the thousands of strangers who had witnessed and celebrated with them.

Why Rockefeller Proposals are Iconic

Rockefeller Center is one of the best places to propose. It’s also the epitome of New York romance, especially during the holidays. The combination of the ice rink, the massive Christmas tree, and the buzzing energy of the crowd creates an atmosphere unlike any other. Whether you’re popping the question or simply soaking in the season, it’s a place where unforgettable memories are made.

If you’re dreaming of having a holiday proposal in NYC, Rockefeller Center Ice Rick is the place to do it. And if you want someone to capture every breathtaking second, I’d love to help make those memories last forever.

The post Rockefeller Center Ice Rink Proposal – Engaged! Moves Like Jagger. appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.

Rosa’s mom contacted me a few weeks ago to see if I could capture her future son-in-law, Rob proposing to her daughter, Rosa on their first trip to New York City! As Rosa’s mom shared with me, it was her and her husband’s greatest wish for their daughter to have photographs of this very special moment with her forever. Despite the winter snowstorm in NYC last week and many airline flights canceled, Rob and Rosa finally made it all the way from Toronto, Canada after a 2-day delay. With the recent snowfall, I suggested NYC Central Park in all its winter glory as the perfect backdrop for the big event. Rob selected the magnificent Bow Bridge which has been seen in such films as Manhattan, The Way We Were, and Keeping the Faith. The engagement proposal went off beautifully and I was able to get some really great shots of this wonderful occasion! Congratulations to Rosa and Rob and Happy New Year to all!

A Winter Marriage Proposal at Bow Bridge in NYC Central Park

Bethesda Terrace proposal New York City by Josh Wong Photography. If you are looking for Josh to discreetly document your proposal, please reach out to him here!

tags: marriage proposal locations nyc

The post Winter Proposal at Bow Bridge in NYC Central Park appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.

I’ve said this many times and I’ll say it again. There are several defining moments in one’s life and when your boyfriend drops down on one knee to propose… well… that is one of them. I am so privileged to witness and document so many of these. I guess I’m somewhat of an expert and photographing proposals is no easy task. It happens extremely fast so you need to be in the right place at the right time to be able to capture the right moments.

As for Joe and Christine’s proposal, Joe contacted me several months ago asking me to photograph his planned proposal to Christine at Grand Central Station. They both love Beaux-Arts architecture and have a genuine appreciation for things that represent “Old New York”. Grand Central Terminal perfectly captures all these elements.  The added “hustle and bustle” feel of everyone going about their way, minding their own business and trying to get to their destinations was the perfect backdrop.

Unbeknownst to Joe and myself, as I’ve never seen it happen at such a busy place,  when Joe dropped to one knee and proposed to Christine, the crowd started slowing down and eventually came to a stand still. Even the customers at the Apple Store from the 2nd floor balcony as well as their employees were leaning over the ledge trying to catch a glimpse to see what was happening. As Joe finished his proposal the audience broke out in cheer, applauded and congratulated them both and then went on their merry ways again.  What a moment to cherish and thanks for having me there! Congrats to Christine & Joe and I hope to see you both soon when the wedding plans are in order. Here are a few of my favorites.

© Josh Wong Photography

Grand Central Proposals – New York City Engagement Spots

If you are interested and having Josh Wong Photography discreetly capture the moment you proposal, we are here to help. Reach out to Josh here!

The post Grand Central Proposals – “She Said YES!” appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.

Today I start my Portfolio series where I will be selecting some of my favorite images either from my own work or my associate photographers.

We start off the series with this timeless classic Black and White which I took at Grand Central Terminal when Joe proposed to Christine. The image in its simplest form shows so much emotion with the backdrop of rush hour foot traffic moving around the couple who are so “in the moment”. It really feels like time slowed to a standstill for them.

The post Portfolio Series I appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.

Jeff contacted me a few months back asking to see if I could photograph his proposal to his girlfriend Stacey on the iconic Gapstow Bridge in Central Park without being seen. I said “Sure… I do it all the time.” But the twist was Jeff asked to see if I could remain unseen even after the proposal. “Hmmm…”. I do a fair amount of marriage proposals but this was the first request for me to remain hidden. Normally… after the proposal, the boyfriend will point me out and I would head over to introduce myself. Jeff wanted me to remain a secret because he had a special surprise in store for his parents and Stacey’s parents the following day which were photos of the proposal which he presented to them at Sarabeth’s. I actually urged Jeff that he should let Stacey know that I was there after the proposal so Stacey wouldn’t freak out, but after careful consideration and a consultation with Stacey’s sister, they both concluded that I should remain hidden and be kept a secret. So there it was. I was to remain hidden. To make this happen, the planning had to be precise as there are both technical and creative challenges. Jeff knew that it had to be either on or around Gapstow Bridge as that was one of Stacey’s favorite spots in Central Park. So Jeff and I met a couple of weeks ahead to determine possible spots. The result was that a proposal on the bridge itself was not a viable spot, because of the high walls and narrow paths. This, I feared would limit my freedom to roam around and Stacey would eventually spot me. Therefore, we ended up choosing the spot below with the bridge with the bridge itself being the backdrop (see below). It was perfect! The proposal went off without a hitch and Stacey had no clue I was there. The next day, they got two of my custom prints which were presented to their parents. Congratulations to Jeff and Stacey!

Engagement and Marriage Proposal at Gapstow Bridge in Central Park, New York City Wedding Photography – Josh Wong Photographer

tags: marriage proposal locations nyc

The post A Surprise Engagement and Marriage Proposal at Gapstow Bridge in Central Park appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.

Several weeks back Jon called me to see if I would be willing to document his proposal to his girlfriend Lisette at The High Line in the heart of the Meat Packing District in New York City. The forecast predicted about a 75% chance of rain, but Jon didn’t mind. I agreed, so a couple of days before, Jon and I met at the planned proposal site to hash out several areas and ideas where I would station myself without Lisette noticing me and to discuss what Jon envisioned his proposal was going to be like. Jon’s plan was to bring Lisette to the Chelsea neighborhood and the High Line after a day at a Gun Show to meet up with Lisette’s sisters Jenelle and Marisa. From there they would all meet up with other family members for dinner. Both sisters didn’t know that there was going to be a proposal as well. The only people who knew about the proposal were Jon, his brother and myself. His brother was advised to be on stand by if we needed to stall.

On the day of the proposal, it rained all morning but when the proposal time came around, the blue skies emerged and boy was it was going to be great! I normally arrive early to get situated, but when I got to the spot, it was sectioned off preventing access. I thought to myself… ok, this was unexpected. I strolled to the second location we planned…. also sectioned off. Keep Out! … Hmmm. We didn’t plan for a third spot so I scrambled a bit. While I was scrambling, I saw Lisette’s sisters coming up. They quietly sat themselves down on the bench not knowing what was about to take place. And because it was scheduled to rain, the High Line was virtually empty. I knew that they noticed me walking around. I also knew that Jon was probably close by. I quickly found a third decent spot and texted the new location information to Jon. Luckily, he was running a bit late and was able to get my text. So we were all set again.

Because Jon was late, Lisette’s sisters had to sit around for a bit. I was sitting around as well, trying to look nonchalant but with barely another soul at the High Line, it was kinda impossible to hide myself from them. Also, I feared that Jon and Lisette would be approaching at any moment. They didn’t know exactly who I was but I knew that they were probably a little creeped out because I was carrying this huge camera and occasionally snapping shots. Eventually, I’m sure they figured it out.
Jon and Lisette finally made it to the new location and the proposal happened without a hitch. And we all officially met.

Below were some of my favorites. Enjoy!

Jenelle and Marissa,
Sorry for creeping you out at first! =)

Congratulations to Lisette and Jon!

© Josh Wong Photography

tags: marriage proposal locations nyc

The post Marriage Proposal at The High Line, New York City appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.

Engagement and proposal pictures by NYC Proposal and wedding photographer Josh Wong.

Danny proposes to Irene at Bryant Park, New York City
May 20, 2011

The weather has been very strange in New York City the past few weeks. There seemed to be a consistent dosage of rain falling from the heavens. But for Danny, he had his heart set on proposing to Irene on this day. So rain or shine… It was going to happen. And rain or shine… I was going to be there with him, at least from a distance and undercover, to capture the moment. Danny had chosen Bryant Park as the proposal spot because it was one of Irene’s very favorite parks in the city when she lived here a few years ago. Because they currently live in Pittsburgh, a 6-hour drive, it was only fitting to return here. Below are some of the captured moments of the marriage proposal. Enjoy!

© Josh Wong Photography

tag: marriage proposal locations nyc

The post Marriage Proposal at Bryant Park, New York City appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.

Ramy Proposes to Jessica on Bow Bridge in Central Park.
Friday March 18, 2011

There is just something magical about this place. The infamous Bow Bridge to be exact. Marriage proposals seem to happen there practically everyday and I am lucky enough to be one of the few to capture these unforgettable moments. It is a truly great spot. The lighting is generally very good and the view is spectacular. Ramy contacted me several days before to go over his game plan for his proposal to his girlfriend Jessica. “Is this something you can do for me?” he asked. “Of course! What’s the plan?” Ramy’s plan included a little visit to Magnolia Bakery, a favorite spot for the couple and then a stroll into Central Park. Have a seat at the Bethesda Fountain where I was waiting for them from a distance. I took a few shots here (2 images below) and then proceeded to Bow Bridge, the proposal location.

When I got to the bridge, around 3pm, it was crowded as usual but the light was falling into my ideal situation. I signaled Ramy, via text, that I was ready for him to make his way here. The funny thing, and this almost always happens, is the gathering of people that watch the proposal. They have no idea what’s going on but when they are lucky enough to witness it happening, their reactions are unbeatable.

So…. finally after the proposal, I emerged from my hidden location and Ramy informed Jessica that I had been there the whole time capturing their beautiful moment. I had a great time Jessica and Ramy! Congratulations to you both and I can’t wait till your wedding. Below are a few of my favorites.

© Josh Wong Photography

tags: marriage proposal locations nyc

The post Bow Bridge Proposal in Central Park appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.

Proposal on Bow Bridge in Central Park

Marriage proposals are always a significant stepping stone to the next part of a couple’s relationship. The moments of anticipation, the unforgettable reactions, and the fairytale endings that flash before the camera in the blink of an eye.

But if you manage to capture it, these priceless images allow the couple to share and celebrate this beautiful occasion with their loved ones.

For me to share these times with a couple like Gina and Ivey is an awesome feeling. I’m touched every time. Ivey asked me about a month ago to document and photograph his proposal to Gina.

The plan:  Fly up from Richmond, Virginia to New York City on a private plane. Whisked off by a stretch limo to have brunch at the very posh Bar Boulud in the Columbus Circle area. After brunch, they took a leisurely stroll through Central Park. Proposal to Gina on the infamous Bow Bridge. And finally, hitting some of the best spots around New York City.

Did Ivey’s plan work? See it for yourselves! Congratulations Gina and Ivey on your engagement! Can’t wait to do this again for your wedding. Enjoy!

tags: marriage proposal locations nyc

The post New York City Engagement and Marriage Proposal in Central Park – Bow Bridge Proposal appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.

It is so thrilling every time I’m asked to photograph any real marriage proposals. They are so much fun and such a privilege to be a part of such a special moment. The expressions are priceless and I love capturing these unique moments in peoples lives. Highly recommended for you guys out there who are thinking of proposing.

Anand, a gastroenterologist, who currently lives in Boston, contacted me a few weeks ago wanting to see if I could photograph his proposal to his girlfriend Nilam, an ER physician, in Central Park while they were here for the weekend. Naturally I said “yes”. So a week before the proposal, Anand came to meet me in New York City while Nilam was away at a medical conference. I took him through Central Park and we hashed out a plan. We visited several ideal places in the park and came up with Plan A and Plan B locations. We also discussed where he would stand and kneel down and where I would be doing my ninja thing so that I would have the best possible angles and the best light. Here are my favorite images of the day! Enjoy!

 A intimate marriage proposal at The Mall in Central Park by top NY elopement and engagement photographer Josh Wong Photography

tags: top marriage proposal locations in nyc

The post A Intimate Marriage Proposal at The Mall in Central Park appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.