In this post, I share my opinion of the best photoshoot locations in NJ. Being a photographer for over 12 years, I have compiled my favorites and all of these don’t require permits which is really nice! These are places I frequent and love.

Two families smiling on a fall day at Natirar Park NJ.

1. Natirar Park, Gladstone NJ
Located in Somerset County, this beautiful park has so many great spots. There’s an old blue barn, pond, and river. Of course, the trees and open fields should be mentioned as well!


One family and two children smile on a fall day at Maplewood Memorial Park NJ.

2. Maplewood Memorial Park, Maplewood NJ
Located in the heart of Maplewood, this park is frequented by families when the weather is nice. It has tons of charm–there’s a pond, bridge, and stream. It’s small but has a lot to offer!

An expecting husband and wife enjoying Cross Estate Gardens in NJ.

3. Cross Estate Gardens, Bernardsville NJ
For those that know it, of course it would be on the list. The gardens contain many beautiful plants and flowers. Many photographers use this space so being respectful of the grounds is important. It is maintained by volunteers and is part of the NJ Historical Garden Foundation.

Two young families smiling on a fall day at Loantaka Brook Reservation in Morristown NJ.

4. Loantaka Brook Reservation, Morristown NJ
The Kitchell Pond area is my favorite. With the pond, tons of trees, and other foliage, I love discovering new areas of this place. If you like biking/running this area is known for that as well. Sometimes you’ll even see people riding horses!

An expecting husband and wife and a family at Duke Island Park NJ.

5. Duke Island Park, Bridgewater NJ
 Duke Island park has lots of open fields and little areas to explore. There’s a river, pond, and a great playground! I love finding new places to photograph each time I visit.

Two images of a young dad, mom and their daughter walking in van vorst park nj on a warm fall day.

7. Van Vorst Park, Jersey City NJ
There are many parks in Jersey City that I love using for sessions but this one has the most charm. It is quaint and there are many spots to wander around to. It’s even surrounded by beautiful picturesque brownstones that make for a great backdrop too.

These are some of my choices for the best photoshoot locations in NJ. I love using them year round and seeing how the landscape changes. I choose many places based on where my clients live and love discovering new spots.

 

Erin Dwyer is a New Jersey newborn photographer also specializing in maternity, and family photography. Erin serves North/Central New Jersey including Bernardsville, Basking Ridge, Madison, Chatham, Summit, Maplewood, Westfield, Hoboken and Jersey City as well as Essex County, Morris County, Somerset County, Union County, and Hudson County.