It’s that time of year again to start thinking about holiday cards, which means scouting out places to take pictures in NJ for your family photoshoot. Luckily, you don’t have to go far to score that eye-catching shot—photo locations in NJ range from the magnificent city skyline across the Hudson to the unfiltered natural beach shots on the shore. Scroll down for 9 places to take pictures in NJ that will make your family photo pop, and for other seasonal photoshoots, check out our guide to instaworthy photo locations all over NJ. (featured photo credit: @dreamingofthefarm, @_sarahbethphotography)

Here Are 9 Places To Take Pictures In NJ For Family Photoshoots

Northern New Jersey

Fort Lee Historical Park
This scenic spot is a cliffside location, offering the best of both worlds—a peaceful nature scene on one side and sweeping views of the Hudson and George Washington Bridge on the other. All 33 acres sit atop the Palisades, and the historic park is also part of history as it follows the Revolutionary War Trail.

family photo shoots in nj high point state park new jersey places to take pictures in NJ — *Visit the highest point in New Jersey at High Point State Park. Photo Credit: istock/Ultima_Gaina*

High Point State Park
Not only is High Point State Park the steepest point in New Jersey, but it also boasts unforgettable views of the tri-state area, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York. You’ll need permits for pro shoots, but snapping photos with the family camera or phone is allowed. The park borders Wantage Township and Montague Township in Sussex County, within the Skylands region of northwestern New Jersey.

Paterson Great Falls
Known as the city founded by Alexander Hamilton, Paterson is not the first place you’d expect to find stunning waterfalls. But right in the middle of this industrial area, you’ll discover one of the best places to take pictures in NJ. Head here if you want a picturesque backdrop that looks like you took a trip somewhere far away, and see how many of your family and friends ask about the locale of this dreamy “vacation” photo.

Central New Jersey

family photoshoots in nj allaire state park nj places to take pictures in NJ — *The buildings in Allaire Village date back to the 19th century. Photo Credit: NJ MOM*

Allaire State Park
Allaire State Park includes a 19th-century iron-making town with antique steam trains at the Pine Creek Railroad. The park consists of trails and the Manasquan River, but it’s the old buildings, antique trains, and pristine nature views that make it one of the most festive places to take pictures in NJ (especially if your crew is clad in holiday tartans). Pro tip: Plan a mid-week photo shoot when the park is less crowded to avoid onlookers.

pictures of New Jersey places to take pictures of NJ NJ photographers places to take pictures in NJ NJ Photographers — *You can’t go wrong with the Jersey Shore when snapping family photos. Photo Credit: @anncoenphotography*

Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area
With picture-perfect coastal views and plenty of green and beach space, this spot is one of the ideal places to take pictures in NJ for a family photo shoot at the shore. Head to the lighthouse for a beautiful backdrop at sunset, or dip your toes in the sand on the ocean side with crashing waves in the distance.

places to take pictures in NJ NJ Photographers — *The Sayen House and Gardens have a variety of spots to get that perfect autumn photo. Photo Credit: @sayenhouseandgardens*

Sayen House and Gardens
This spot should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for a beautiful estate with gardens. Unlike other arboretums that require photo shoot permits, this location doesn’t need one for family photo ops. It is one of the most unforgettable places to take pictures in NJ, and it’s definitely worth the drive in the fall. The gardens might be at the end of their season, but the fall foliage and pretty gazebo are just as picturesque.

Southern New Jersey

atlantic county park nj family photo locations nj mom pictures of New Jersey places to take pictures in NJ NJ photographers — *Sometimes, nature is the only backdrop you need. Photo Credit: @timmcglynn*

Atlantic County Parks
Fortunately, you won’t need to obtain a permit or pay a fee to take family photos in Atlantic County Parks. With over 7,400 acres in the park system in Atlantic County, choose from Lake Lenape, Weymouth Furnace, Whirlpool Island, Leeds Point, and many more. Each is unique—you’ll find areas that offer babbling brooks, open green spaces, and wooded settings for whatever your family shoot might need.

pictures of New Jersey places to take pictures of NJ NJ photographers places to take pictures in NJ — *The Barnegat Lighthouse, also known as Old Barney, is a popular photo spot for NJ photographers on Long Beach Island’s north end. Photo Credit: @lbiluxurycharters*

Barnegat Light State Park
If you want one of the most iconic lighthouses in NJ as your backdrop, head to Old Barney at the northern end of Long Beach Island. The Barnegat Lighthouse served as a crucial landmark for vessels traveling to New York along the Jersey coastline, offering gorgeous shoreline views that add a nautical touch to your family’s Jersey shore photos. Sunset is prime time for photo ops, so if you want to avoid crowds, plan accordingly.

pictures of New Jersey places to take pictures of NJ NJ photographers — *No New Jersey photo location list would be complete without mentioning Cape May. Photo Credit: @cape_may*

Cape May
Where else can you find history, gorgeous architecture, and the beach all in one place? The preserved seaside town of Cape May is the ideal setting for beautiful coastal shots. For a different look, set up your photo shoot along the sidewalks with the Victorian-era buildings behind you to capture the storybook charm.

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