There are so many beautiful locations throughout Queens and Long Island for golden hour family and maternity photographs. When you’re deciding where to have your session, it can be hard to know which location is the right fit.

The truth is, there isn’t one perfect location. The best location is the one that fits your family. While some families need wide open spaces where toddlers can run freely, others dream of waterfront sunsets or colorful field of flowers. That’s why I offer a curated collection of locations, each with its own personality and chosen for how beautifully it photographs at golden hour. Each allowing families to slow down, explore and enjoy being together in their own way.

Read on to discover which location is the best fit for your family right now.

Quick Reference Guide

If you’re looking for…

Wide open fields: Alley Pond

Waterfront sunsets: Little Bay Fort Totten

Historic charm: Sagamore Hill

Families with toddlers: Alley Pond Park or Oakland Lake

Families with older children: Little Bay Fort Totten or Sagamore Hill

Alley Pond Park (Oakland Gardens, NY)

The most versatile location in my collection (and my favorite). Alley Pond Park offers wide open fields, wooded trails and a tucked away garden area that feels private and peaceful. Because of the variety, it gives us multiple backdrops in one location without needing to travel. This is especially ideal for families with young children who need space to move, play, and explore naturally.

Best for: Families with babies and toddlers, playful sessions and those wanting variety in one location

Best season: Summer through Fall
Summer offers lush greenery, shaded trails and hidden shaded pockets perfect for playful moments. Fall brings a variety of colorful foliage, creating a warm and textured backdrop.

Fort Totten Little Bay Park (Bayside, NY)

If you love water views but want to skip the beach, this location offers all that and more. With views of the Throggs Neck Bridge and calm waterfront scenery, Little Bay pairs perfectly with Fort Totten’s tall grasses and open fields. The light here is especially beautiful as the sun sets glistening over the water.

*There is approximately a 10-minute walk from the parking area, and some shoreline areas include rocks and uneven terrain.

Best for: Couples, maternity, and families with older children

Best season: Spring through Early Fall
Spring brings vibrant green waterfront views and soft light along the bay, along with seasonal cherry blossoms. The rich greenery and glowing sunset light over the water continues through the summer. As you enter September, the open field includes a seasonal wildflower display.

Oakland Lake & Wildflower Preserve (Bayside, NY)

A peaceful, nature filled setting that changes beautifully with the seasons. This location features a wildflower meadow accross from the lake surrounded by trees and seasonal wildflowers. The lake itself is home to wildlife like ducks, swans and turtles. It has a calm, relaxed feel that works especially well for young children.

Best for: Families with young children, nature focused sessions and relaxed storytelling images

Best season: Spring through Late Fall
Spring is ideal for open views of the lake and duck watching before the surrounding greenery fully fills in. Summer brings lush wildflower filled fields. In the fall, expect vibrant changing leaves reflecting off the lake.

Sagamore Hill (Oyster Bay, NY)

A timeless North Shore location with classic Long Island charm. Rolling fields, rustic fencing, a historic barn and seasonal orchard elements create so much variety at a single location. For a more adventurous option, a wooded trail leads to a quiet beach with classic north shore pebbles and sunset views.

*The walk to the water is best for families with older children and couples as the access trail is unpaved

Best for: Families with children of any age, couples, maternity, and clients looking for a classic scenic feel

Best season: Summer and Fall
Summer is perfect for golden fields and the option to walk down the wooded trail to the beach for a more north shore coastal experience. In the fall, the property transforms with colorful foliage and nearby apple orchards. The buildings and fencing on the property provide a rustic north shore vibe.

Looking for Something Seasonal?

The locations featured here are my favorite golden hour settings because they photograph beautifully throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique charm. If you’re considering a specific seasonal backdrop, such as cherry blossoms, a sandy shoreline or vibrant wildflowers, check out the links below to find the experience that’s right for you.

• Cherry Blossoms
• Beach Sessions
• Sunflower
• Wildflowers
• Fall Foliage

Not sure when each seasonal experience takes place? Read When to Book Family Photos Throughout the Year for a month by month guide to the best time to book each seasonal offering.

Ready to book?

Found the perfect location? Browse available dates and book your family or maternity golden hour session today.

Not sure which location is right for your family?

Or maybe you have another location in mind. If you’re wondering whether another park, beach or meaningful location would be a good fit, I’d love to hear your ideas. Reach out through my contact form, and we can chat about whether it’s the right setting for your session.

Erica Ruvio Photography LLC is a Queens NYC based lifestyle newborn, family and maternity photographer serving Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau, Suffolk and up through lower Westchester counties. Learn more about Erica here.