These NYC indoor photo locations will get you through the dreary days and ensure you stay dry while getting the best images for your session. Being based here in NYC, the some months can be a drag with cold temperatures and unpredictable weather. But after years of shooting, I’ve come up with a foolproof list of the best spots across the city to shoot your session indoors. 

Metropolitan Museum of Art: The MET is one of my favorite spots for indoor photos. I recommend getting there first thing in the morning – they open at 10AM so I typically meet clients outside around 9:45AM to get in line. But, important to note, there is a required admission fee for non-NY state residents. 
Inside Scoop: The Temple of Dendur has floor to ceiling windows and provides for a very clean backdrop. The American Wing also has tons of natural light but tends to have more going on in the background. 

Cost: $25 for adults, free for kids under 12. NY state residents can pay as they wish.  
Permit: No 
Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
Website: https://www.metmuseum.org/

Grand Central: If you don’t mind capturing the real hustle and bustle of the city, Grand Central is a great indoor option. There are so many spots within the terminal that will give you the iconic NYC backdrop. 
Inside Scoop: To avoid the massive crowds, I’d recommend doing the shoot outside of commuter hours. Mid-day, off-peak hours are the best! 

Cost: Free 
Permit: No 
Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
Website: https://www.grandcentralterminal.com/

Rail Station at Liberty State Park: The old Rail Station is not a fully covered space, so in the colder months it can get pretty chilly. That said, it’s a totally open space with perfect lighting
Inside Scoop: This space is great for large groups. It’s also right by the waterfront with an incredible cityscape of Manhattan. So if the weather ends up clearing up, you can head outside for an awesome backdrop.

Cost: Free
Permit: No 
Address: 200 Morris Pesin Dr, Jersey City, NJ 07305
Website: https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/liberty.html

Hotel Lobbies: Hotel lobbies are a great spot for lifestyle photos. That said, you’ll need to be discrete as not all hotels allow professional photography or flash photography. I’d only suggest going to lobbies if you’re able to take quick photos without disturbing the rest of the guests. 
Inside Scoop: Some of my faves are The Box House Hotel, The Marlton Hotel.

Coffee Shops: Coffee shops are an ideal location for lifestyle shoots. They typically have great decor and are more low key about photography permits. That being said, similar to lobbies, you’ll need to be discrete and respectful of other customers. Make sure to also purchase something!
Inside Scoop: Some of my faves Woops Bakery in Williamsburg and One Girl Cookies in DUMBO.

Rent A Space: Renting a space is an additional cost but worth it if you need to customize your space. You have full access to the space and can find something that fits your aesthetic and photography needs.
Inside Scoop: Look into Breather, Peer Space, AirBNB for options in NYC!

Your Home: Doing the photoshoot at your home is always an option, especially if you have good natural light. We don’t need to use the entire space, we can create little moments in areas near the windows. We’ve worked magic in tight NYC apartment spaces.
Inside Scoop: I recommend tidying up before the photoshoot and sending photos of your space to your photographer beforehand.

Get Creative: Think of outside-the-box locations that could work for your shoot.
Inside Scoop: We’ve done creative shoots in workout studios, inside the subway, at laundromats, bodegas… you name it!