5 Favorite Spots for New Jersey Brand Photography Sessions
The right location doesn't just look good in photos. It tells your story before you say a word.
New Jersey offers so much more than the usual "gritty city" or "beach boardwalk" backdrops. Whether you're going for polished and professional, earthy and organic, or something that shows off your bold creative energy, there's a spot here that actually reflects who you are.
As a New Jersey brand photographer who's spent years scouting and shooting in these areas, I've pulled together a list of my favorite locations for brand photos, along with notes on the vibe and why they work.
1. Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, Stirling, NJ
A diamond in the rough, in my opinion. This hidden gem in Stirling is full of boardwalks, tall grasses, and quiet trails that create an earthy atmosphere that's perfect for wellness brands, coaches, or anyone who feels most at home outdoors. The light here is gorgeous, and the setting communicates calm without trying too hard.
If you're dreaming of nature-forward brand photos with a soft, peaceful aesthetic, the Great Swamp is it.
2. Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, Jersey City
Skyline views without the NYC chaos? Yes, please. Most photographers will take their clients to Liberty State Park, which is gorgeous in its own right, but you run the risk of needing a pricey permit to shoot there. Skip the crowds and big costs, and take a walk along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, which offers the same iconic backdrops of downtown NYC with the Freedom Tower, plus great backdrops on the Jersey side with cobblestone streets in some areas. It's a great blend of urban and natural, ideal for modern brands with city energy who still want room to breathe.
Plan on starting or ending by the Hyatt Regency Hotel, where there’s a few gardens with grass for a really cool vibe of nature meets city. Once you’re done with your shoot, treat yourself to a glass of wine and dinner at a local restaurant nearby!
3. Downtown Montclair + Montclair State University
I’m not just including this area because I’m a Red Hawk alum, though that does give me even more of an insider’s eye. Montclair is where charm meets cool. Think historic buildings, colorful murals, and trendy cafés. The university has beautiful buildings in Mediterranean/Mission Revival architecture, with big archways and red tile on the roofs.
If your brand is rooted in creativity, education, or community, this location gives you variety without needing to travel far between looks. Plus, it photographs beautifully year-round.
4. Asbury Park
I mean, it’s got Boss written all over it, so who wouldn’t want that energy as part of their brand shoot?
Asbury is bold, vibrant, and full of personality, just like the brands that thrive here. From colorful murals and iconic boardwalk signs to a grungy-yet-artsy vibe, Asbury Park is perfect for creatives, musicians, and entrepreneurs who like to stand out. This is where edge meets authenticity.
5. Sandy Hook, Middletown Township, NJ
A quieter beach option that feels more intimate than the Jersey Shore stereotype. Dunes, driftwood, and soft golden light at sunrise or sunset make Sandy Hook a go-to for soulful, minimal brand photos. It's ideal if you want coastal vibes without the crowds.
The Right Location Tells Your Story
Whether you're building a personal brand or updating your visuals for a new launch, the setting matters. When you feel aligned with your environment, when it reflects your story, your vibe, your values, it shows up in the photos. And your audience feels it.
I'm always scouting, planning, and suggesting locations based on who my clients are, not just what's trending. Because it's never just about the place. It's about how the place helps you show up as yourself.
Want help choosing the perfect spot for your own New Jersey brand photography session?
If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or brand looking for New Jersey brand photography that feels grounded, human, and strategic, you can learn more about my approach here.
MEET BERNADETTE
Hi! I’m Bernadette Marciniak, founder of Solhaus Media, a woman-owned brand photography and video production company. We work with coaches, healers, podcast hosts, educators and creative business owners to create powerful imagery that converts audiences into clients.
I’m a cat mom of two, who loves good pizza, craft beer and red wine. I’m usually bingeing on the hottest new true crime documentary, or finding solace in the upteenth repeat of Ted Lasso or Friends.
Solhaus Media is based in New Jersey and nationwide.
