The Best Spots for Family Photos in Bergen County

Bergen County is full of beautiful places to take photos — and most of them are closer than you think. After years of shooting families all over Northern NJ, these are the ten spots I keep coming back to. Whether you want a wooded trail, a wide open field, or a waterfront view, this list has something for every family.

1. Stateline Lookout, Alpine

One of the most dramatic spots in Bergen County. Perched along the Palisades cliffs, Stateline Lookout gives you sweeping views of the Hudson River and the New York skyline. Golden hour here is genuinely hard to beat — the light hits the river and everything glows. It works for families who want something a little more epic than a standard park setting.

2. Overpeck County Park, Leonia

Wide open fields, a lake backdrop, and plenty of room to breathe. Overpeck is great for families with young kids because there's so much space to run around — and kids who are moving naturally are always easier to photograph than kids being asked to stand still. The openness also means great light in almost any direction.

3. Fort Lee Historic Park

Overlooking the George Washington Bridge with views of the Hudson, this park has a dramatic quality that most people don't expect from a local park. The combination of history, open space, and that bridge backdrop makes it one of the more unique spots in the county. It's especially striking in the fall when the foliage comes in.

4. Saddle River County Park

A go-to for a reason. The trails, creek areas, and open fields give you so much variety in one location without having to move far. The light filters through the trees beautifully, and the creek adds a natural element that photographs really well. Works in every season, but fall here is something special.

5. Davis Johnson Park and Gardens, Tenafly

A hidden gem. This small park has a rose garden, a sunken garden, and plenty of flowering trees that make it an incredible backdrop in spring and early summer. It's the kind of spot that doesn't feel like a park — it feels more like a private garden, which gives photos a more intimate, elevated quality.

6. Van Saun County Park, Paramus

One of Bergen County's largest parks, which means a lot of variety in one place — open fields, wooded paths, a pond, and even a botanical garden. It's a great option for families who want flexibility or aren't sure exactly what kind of backdrop they want. There's genuinely something for everyone here.

7. Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, Englewood

Fewer people, more nature, and a real mix of textures — wood bridges, stone paths, open clearings. It has a quiet, tucked-away feel that helps families relax naturally. If you want photos that feel unhurried and genuinely peaceful, this is a great choice.

8. Tenafly Nature Center

Wooded trails and natural light make this one of my favorite spots for a more forested look. The canopy creates soft, even light that's flattering in almost any conditions. Kids also love exploring here, which means natural movement and real expressions rather than forced smiles.

9. Ramapo Valley County Reservation, Mahwah

A bit further north in the county, but worth it. Trails through the woods, a waterfall, and some great elevated vista points. It's a more adventurous option — ideal for families who like being outdoors and want photos that feel a little more like an experience than a session.

10. New Bridge Landing Historic District, River Edge

This one is underrated. The site of the 1776 Battle of New Bridge, with preserved Dutch colonial buildings, a scenic footbridge, and the Hackensack River running through it. The rustic architecture and historic atmosphere give photos a timeless quality you just can't replicate in a modern park setting. Great for families who want something totally different.

One thing that matters more than location

The spot matters, but the light matters more. No matter where we shoot, I always recommend scheduling sessions for golden hour — the hour after sunrise or the hour before sunset. Midday sun is harsh and unflattering. Golden hour makes everything look better, regardless of the location.



Want to book a session at one of these spots?

I photograph families all over Bergen County and Northern NJ. If you have a location in mind or want help picking the right one for your family, reach out and we'll figure it out together.