New York is one of the most photographed places on Earth. From Times Square kisses to construction workers on a steel beam, iconic images of the city are burned into history. But what’s the best photo you can take in NYC today?

In the video The Best Photo You Can Take in NYC, creator Jack Coyne of Public Opinion teams up with photographers across the city to find the perfect shot — one worthy of turning into a print for New Yorker Nowhere.

 

👉 Watch the full video here:

Why New York Is the Ultimate Photo Backdrop

  • Diversity of Scenes: From Washington Square Park to Harlem to DUMBO, every block feels cinematic.
  • Constant Motion: Crowds, traffic, street performers — the city is never still, making every frame dynamic.
  • Architecture Meets Sky: Bridges, skyscrapers, and the skyline provide unparalleled framing.


“Everywhere you go is pretty much a scene out of a movie.” – NYC Photographer

Chasing the Perfect Shot

  • Harlem (125th Street Overpass): A favorite of locals, with views of the West Side Highway and Uptown energy.
  • DUMBO (Washington Street): The Instagram-famous angle where the Manhattan Bridge frames the Empire State Building. Tourists and professionals alike line up for the shot.
  • Rooftops & Hidden Views: Some of the best photos come not from Manhattan itself, but from Brooklyn and Queens, where you can frame the skyline in full.

Stories Behind the Lens

Photographers featured in the video shared how they fell in love with capturing NYC:

  • Many started during the early Instagram meetup days.
  • One shot became the cover of New York Magazine during the pandemic.
  • Another captured a surreal moonrise over the skyline that went viral.

The Final Print

After a morning shoot in DUMBO, the winning image layered the Manhattan Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, One World Trade, and even a flock of birds — a photo that screamed “New York.”

The print was turned into a New Yorker Nowhere poster, with proceeds donated to provide meals for New Yorkers in need.

Bottom Line

New York’s best photo isn’t just about landmarks — it’s about capturing the city’s layers, energy, and soul. Whether you’re a tourist with an iPhone or a pro with a DSLR, NYC offers endless backdrops waiting for their moment.
👉 Credit: Public Opinion by Jack Coyne. Watch the full video here: The Best Photo You Can Take in NYC

Photo by Andre Benz on Unsplash