Here's the scoop -


Bergen County might be a suburb of New York City, but don’t let that fool you—it’s full of photogenic gems for every kind of photographer. Whether you’re into nature, architecture, portraits, or just looking to add something fresh to your feed, here are ten of my favorite spots to bring a camera.


1. Palisades Interstate Park

Stretching along the Hudson River, this park is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the area. The Palisades cliffs rise up to 500 feet above the water and offer unmatched views of the river and New York skyline. You’ll find dozens of trails, old stone structures, and scenic overlooks. Head to Alpine Lookout or State Line Lookout for golden hour light and misty river views—perfect for landscapes or cinematic portraits. The dramatic cliffside setting makes this a must-shoot location year-round.

Dramatic cliffside view of the Palisades overlooking the Hudson River on a sunny autumn day.
2. Fort Lee Historic Park

Overlooking the George Washington Bridge, this park was a critical Revolutionary War encampment. Today, it offers stunning panoramic views of Manhattan and the Hudson, plus reconstructed military buildings that give a glimpse into 18th-century life. Photographers love the blend of history and modern architecture—especially at dusk, when the bridge lights come on and reflect across the river. Great for editorial shoots and moody environmental portraits.

George Washington Bridge spans Hudson River with green foliage in foreground and New York City skyline in distance.

3. Van Saun County Park


This expansive park is a family favorite, and for good reason. Home to the Bergen County Zoo, a carousel, walking paths, wooded areas, and seasonal gardens, Van Saun offers a diverse backdrop for photos. Spring blossoms, fall foliage, and snow-covered fields give photographers plenty to work with across all seasons. It’s especially ideal for lifestyle sessions, family portraits, and natural light photography.

A family of three sharing joyful laughter together outdoors on a sunny autumn day.

4. Downtown Ridgewood


Ridgewood’s historic downtown is full of charm: brick facades, classic signage, and cozy storefronts. It's like stepping onto a movie set. Whether you're doing brand portraits, couple sessions, or just snapping candid street shots, this area has strong character. Grab a coffee at a corner café, shoot through the window, or take advantage of the alleyways and side streets for unexpected texture and light.

Small town Main Street view with historic buildings, cars, and decorative lamp posts on a sunny day with blue skies.

5. Overpeck County Park


One of Bergen County’s largest parks, Overpeck spans several towns and offers sprawling green space, wetlands, and dramatic pedestrian bridges. The marshland areas offer soft reflections at sunrise or sunset, and there's enough open space for drone work. With kayakers and rowers often passing through, there's a sense of life and movement that adds an extra layer to your storytelling.

A rustic arched pedestrian bridge spans across a scenic lake surrounded by lush green hills on a sunny day.

6. Saddle River County Park


This park is actually a chain of parks connected by a multi-use path stretching over six miles. It weaves through towns like Rochelle Park, Fair Lawn, and Glen Rock, offering bridges, small waterfalls, creeks, and quiet wooded corners along the way. Ideal for engagement shoots, nature photography, or peaceful editorial imagery, especially in early morning light.

A wooden park sign for Saddle River County Park stands against blue sky with green trees in the background.

7. New Bridge Landing (River Edge)


A hidden gem steeped in history. This is the site of the 1776 Battle of New Bridge, and home to preserved Dutch colonial buildings, including the Steuben House. With rustic architecture, a scenic footbridge, and the Hackensack River, it offers a colonial-era atmosphere rarely found in Northern NJ. It’s fantastic for stylized shoots or timeless black-and-white photography.

A metal truss bridge spans across a calm river surrounded by green trees and vegetation on both banks.

8. Englewood Boat Basin


Located within the Palisades Park system, this small marina is a peaceful escape. With boats docked on the Hudson, quiet trails, and soft morning mist, it’s a great spot for tranquil waterfront shots. Go early to catch the sun rising over the river and reflecting off the water—perfect for serene landscapes or relaxed portraits.

Aerial view of a marina nestled along a wooded shoreline with docked boats and winding road above.

9. Garret Mountain Reservation


Just outside Bergen County in neighboring Passaic, this spot is too good not to mention. Garret Mountain offers expansive views of Paterson and New York City, plus Lambert Castle ruins, wooded trails, and wide-open fields. The diversity of terrain makes it perfect for senior portraits, dramatic fashion shoots, or panoramic drone footage. The fall foliage here is a standout.

Panoramic vista of rolling green hills and lush forest canopy stretching to the horizon under a cloudy summer sky.

10. Your Own Backyard (Seriously)


Sometimes the best photos come from the most familiar places. Bergen County neighborhoods are full of character—old diners with neon lights, quiet alleyways, backyard gardens, and local ballfields. Challenge yourself to create magic in places you pass every day. Great photography is often less about the location and more about your vision.

Well-maintained backyard with lush green lawn, wooden privacy fence, and landscaped garden borders on a sunny day.

Final Thoughts


Bergen County may not always make the “top photo destinations” lists, but it should. With a mix of nature, charm, history, and light you can actually work with—it’s a playground for creatives who know where to look.


Have a favorite photo spot in the area? Send it my way—I'm always down to explore.


Is it golden hour yet?



Andrew