2026 New York City Professional Travel Photography

Photographing New York City Manhattan In 2026

In March 2026, I traveled to New York City for the 6th time. Each time there has been a photography purpose, with this being no exception. I wanted to photograph landmarks I have shot before as well as landmarks I have never been to.

One Times Square

While the others were experiencing Wicked on Broadway, I opted for a 3 hour sightseeing expedition by myself. I have seen Wicked twice before and valued my alone time in the Big Apple. Prior to the trip, I had seen a YouTbe video by an NYC photographer who visited One Times Square. 1 Times Square is the newest observation deck to open in NYC.

In past trips, I hd done the Empire State Building, Top Of The Rock, and 1 Vanderbilt. The aerial observation deck in Time Square has a view unlike any other. At 8pm, I entered through the south end of Times Square. I was directed upstairs via the elevator. Once I was upstairs, I looked at the exhibits inside, and made my way outside.

I should mention that this building is where the giant New Year’s Eve ball drops every December 31 and lives for the other 364 days of the year.

The outdoor area goes aroune outside of the entire building. There are huge glass windows protecting guests from falling over. On this night, a preview night before opening to the masses, there were 2 other guests. Yes, there was only 3 guests at NYC’s newest attraction. It was magical! Normally an aerial view has hundreds of visitors at any given time.

I spent time photographing Times Square testing out long exposures and more. Then, I was all the way around the building. On the east side, closest to The Knickerbocker Hotel, the floor suddenly becomes plexiglass and allows you to see all the way down to the ground. It was slightly unnerving behind up there, basically alone, at night, and walking on an invisible floor.

I definiteily recommend visiting One Times Square as it gives such a unique view. I still prefer Summit 1 Vanderbilt, but 1 Times Square was great.

Photographing The Statue Of Liberty

I have seen the Statue previously on a Circle Line cruise around Manhattan. This year, we decided on a 50 minute express cruise to the Statue of Liberty. We departed from the South Street Seaport, floated past the Statue, and returned to the dock. The express cruise was informative, quick, and perfect for 2026 New York City photography.