NYC Heli Tours for Photography Lovers: Best Routes & Tips

Capture New York’s Skyline from Above with HeliNY

New York City is one of the most photographed places on the planet, but if you’ve ever tried capturing it from street level, you know the struggle. Crowds, traffic, and tall buildings blocking the skyline can make it tough to get that perfect shot. The solution? Take to the skies. Helicopter tours are the ultimate way to unlock a fresh perspective and capture jaw-dropping urban air photos that will make your feed (and your memories) unforgettable.

Why Choose Heli Tours for Photography?

There’s something magical about photographing New York from above. From the Statue of Liberty, the Highline, to the Empire State Building, heli tours give you access to angles you’ll never find on the ground. Whether you’re a professional photographer chasing portfolio-worthy aerials or a hobbyist snapping for Instagram, the bird’s-eye vantage point guarantees your shots stand out.

The Best Routes for Urban Air Photos

The Classic Manhattan Skyline

This route is a must for first-time flyers. You’ll glide along the Hudson River and capture the full sweep of Midtown’s iconic skyline. Shots of the Empire State Building, Hudson Yards, and the Chrysler Building are guaranteed to wow your audience.

Lady Liberty & Ellis Island

For history buffs and wide-angle lovers, nothing beats circling the Statue of Liberty. You’ll capture Lady Liberty and the harbor backdrop from the air in one epic frame—perfect for urban air photos that scream “New York.”

Lower Manhattan & One World Trade Center

Heli tours often loop around Lower Manhattan, allowing photographers to frame One World Trade Center towering over the Financial District. Golden hour flights make this route especially photogenic.

Central Park in Every Season

No two seasons look the same in Central Park—brilliant bursts of red and orange in fall give way to the quiet beauty of a snowy winter scene. With heli tours, you can capture these transformations from above, creating a year-round portfolio of stunning urban air photos without ever setting foot in the park.

Tips for Capturing the Best Shots

• Shoot in RAW – Gives you the most flexibility for editing later.
• Set a fast shutter speed – since helicopters are in motion, this keeps your photos crisp and clear.
• Opt for a Wide-Angle Lens – Capture sweeping skylines and landscapes.
• Dress Dark – Avoid light colors that might reflect in the helicopter windows.
• Time Your Flight – Golden hour (sunrise or sunset) creates stunning lighting for your photos.

Safety & Comfort with HeliNY

If you’re wondering who to fly with, HeliNY is one of the most trusted tour operators in the region. Their state-of-the-art fleet of Bell 407 helicopters is meticulously maintained and undergoes rigorous safety checks before every flight. Your flight is in the hands of veteran pilots who know New York’s airspace inside and out, providing peace of mind while you focus on your photos.

And here’s what makes the experience even better: HeliNY helicopters are always flown with the doors on, so you’ll enjoy the views comfortably. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide panoramic visibility from every seat, ensuring no one misses the perfect shot. Plus, climate-controlled cabins mean you can take in the sights of New York City from above without worrying about the weather—style, comfort, and unbeatable views all in one ride.

Why HeliNY Stands Out

HeliNY promises great views and delivers an exceptional experience that travelers rave about. With a 4.6-star rating on Google and a 4.8-star rating on TripAdvisor, guests consistently highlight the professionalism of the staff, the smoothness of the flights, and the unforgettable perspective of New York City from above. Convenient departure points in Manhattan and New Jersey also make fitting a tour into any trip easy.

See NYC from a Whole New Perspective

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing New York from above, heli tours are a game-changer. With the right route, a few pro tips, and the expertise of HeliNY, your urban air photos will capture the city in ways most people never get to see. Whether for your personal album, your Instagram grid, or just the thrill of seeing NYC from a new angle, it’s an experience worth taking.

Click here to book one of our stunning tours!

FAQs

Are the windows clear enough for great photos?

• Yes! HeliNY’s helicopters feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows, giving every seat an excellent view. The windows are designed to reduce glare, giving you crisp, vibrant skyline shots.

Do I need special photography skills to capture great shots?

• Not at all. Even first-time photographers will walk away with amazing images. Tips like using a fast shutter speed, dressing in dark colors to reduce reflections, and shooting during golden hour can help take your photos to the next level.

Are HeliNY flights comfortable in all seasons?

• Yes. Thanks to climate-controlled cabins, every HeliNY flight is comfortable, from snowy mornings to sunny afternoons, so you can enjoy the fantastic views and perfect your urban air photos.

How safe are helicopter tours with HeliNY?

• Safety is a top priority. HeliNY operates state-of-the-art Bell 407 helicopters, which undergo rigorous safety checks before every flight. With countless hours logged over New York, HeliNY’s pilots bring unmatched expertise and professionalism to every tour.

Can I book a heli tour if I’ve never flown before?

• Definitely! Many guests take their first helicopter ride with HeliNY. The flights are smooth, comfortable, and guided by pilots who make the experience enjoyable for everyone—no prior flying experience required.

What do other travelers say about HeliNY?

• HeliNY has earned a 4.8-star rating on TripAdvisor and a 4.6-star rating on Google. Guests consistently rave about the professionalism of the staff, the smooth flights, and the unforgettable views.