STATUE OF LIBERTY
A symbol of freedom and hope, the Statue of Liberty stands tall on Liberty Island, offering unparalleled views of Manhattan's skyline.
“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” - Emma Lazarus
Location
- Liberty Island (40.6892° N, 74.0445° W): Direct shots of the statue with varied backgrounds, including the cityscape.
- Battery Park (40.7033° N, 74.0170° W): Distance shots capturing the statue against the horizon.
Time of Day
- Mid-Morning: Soft light on the statue, avoiding harsh shadows.
- Sunset: The silhouette of Lady Liberty against a colorful sky.
Camera Lens
- Telephoto Lens (70-200mm): From Battery Park to focus tightly on the statue.
- Wide Angle Lens (16-35mm): On the island to capture the statue and its surroundings.
Camera Settings
- Aperture: f/8-f/11 for sharpness.
- Shutter Speed: 1/160s.
- White Balance: Daylight.
- ISO: Keep low, around 100, and adjust for evenings.
Personal Note
I like to capture the statue from the ferry, especially when she is illuminated by the morning light. For those visiting Liberty Island, try to find a spot that aligns the statue with Manhattan's skyscrapers.
BROOKLYN BRIDGE
More than a mere connector between Manhattan and Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Bridge is a testament to human endeavor and creativity. Its gothic arches and robust cables have been the backdrop of countless photographs.
“The Brooklyn Bridge and I grew up together.” - Al Smith
Location
- Brooklyn Bridge Park (40.7023° N, 73.9967° W): This is where you get the bridge and Manhattan's skyline in one frame.
- Battery Park (40.7033° N, 74.0170° W): Delve into the heart of the bridge, capturing unique perspectives.
Time of Day
- Sunrise: Fewer crowds and a soft glow on the city can provide you with a serene ambiance.
- Night: The bridge against the city lights can offer contrasting colors and shadows.
Camera Lens
- Wide Angle Lens (16-35mm): Perfect for encompassing the entirety of the bridge and its surroundings.
- Standard Lens (50mm): Ideal for detailing and candid shots on the walkway.
Camera Settings
- Aperture: Start at f/11 for a crisp focus across the scene.
- Shutter Speed: Day shots at around 1/80s. Night shots require a tripod with exposures ranging from 5s to 30s.
- White Balance: Set to daylight under sunny conditions. For night, adjust to tungsten or custom settings.
- ISO: A baseline of 100 for day. Increase judiciously at night, mindful of noise.
Personal Note
One of my preferred spots on the pedestrian pathway is where the bridge’s main cables form an overhead arch. Here, a blend of symmetry and hustle of the city converges.
GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL
Grand Central isn't just a transit hub; its celestial dome, grand chandeliers, and bustling life make it a photographer’s delight.
“If it weren’t for Grand Central, all those 1990s disaster movies would have looked very different.” - David CLACK
Location
- Main Concourse (40.7527° N, 73.9772° W): Capture the expansive interior and daily hustle.
- From the Balconies: Overhead shots offering unique angles.
Time of Day
- Mid-Day: Natural light pours in, illuminating the celestial ceiling.
- Rush Hour: To capture the energy and motion of commuters.
Camera Lens
- Wide Angle Lens (16-35mm): To capture the station's grandeur.
- Standard Lens (50mm): For detailing and candid moments.
Camera Settings
- Aperture: f/5.6 for a wider depth of field.
- Shutter Speed: 1/60s. Slower for intentional motion blur.
- White Balance: Adjust for indoor lighting.
- ISO: 400-800, given the indoor setting.
Personal Note
The celestial dome always captivates me, and capturing its intricate details alongside the buzzing terminal life can be fascinating. Remember to respect privacy and avoid direct close-ups of individuals without consent.
THE OCULUS
A modern architectural wonder, the Oculus serves as a transportation hub and shopping center but looks like something out of a sci-fi film.
“[The oculus resembles] a bird flying from the hands of a child” - Santiago Calatrava
Location
- Oculus (40.7118° N, 74.0114° W): Inside for its ribbed structure, outside for its full view.
Time of Day
- Mid-Day: When sunlight filters through and creates patterns.
Camera Lens
- Wide Angle Lens (14-24mm): To capture its sprawling architecture.
Camera Settings
- Aperture: f/11 for depth.
- Shutter Speed: 1/60s.
- White Balance: Daylight.
- ISO: 200.
Personal Note
When inside, look for unique angles and the interplay of light and shadow. The way light bounces off the white structure creates mesmerizing patterns. Also, remember, it's not just about capturing the structure, but the story of the space, the movement of people, and the contrast between the modern design and the historical surroundings. Enjoy the process, and let the space speak to you!
CENTRAL PARK (BETHESDA TERRACE)
Central Park is NYC's verdant heart, and the Bethesda Terrace offers architectural splendor and natural beauty with its staircase and view of the lake.
“Bethesda Terrace is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture and sculpture.” - Tricia Kang
Location
- Bethesda Terrace (40.7740° N, 73.9709° W): Capture the ornate carvings, the fountain, and the serene lake in the background.
Time of Day
- Morning: Calmer waters on the nearby lake provide stunning reflections.
- Late Afternoon: Golden hues can cast a gentle light on the carvings of the terrace.
Camera Lens
- Standard Lens (24-70mm): Versatile for both wide shots and architectural details.
- Wide Angle Lens (16-35mm): For expansive views including the terrace, bridge, and lake.
Camera Settings
- Aperture: f/8 for balanced depth.
- Shutter Speed: 1/125s.
- White Balance: Daylight.
- ISO: 100-200, adjust as ambient light changes.
Personal Note
The allure lies not only in its iconic architecture but also in its unique fusion of nature and design. Don't forget to turn your lens to the surrounding nature too; the juxtaposition of the crafted stone against the natural beauty of the park is captivating. Lastly, let the space inspire you. Whether it's a quiet moment of reflection on the steps or the gentle ripples in the water as a rowboat passes by, Bethesda Terrace is rich in moments waiting to be captured.
