Picture Perfect Parties: Your Guide to Choosing the Ideal NYC & Hamptons Event Space

What Makes a Venue “Picture Perfect”? 

First up: Light, Light, Light! Seriously, it’s a photographer’s best friend.

Indoor Venues: If your event is indoors, keep an eye out for spaces with lots of natural light. Think huge windows or even a wall of them, letting that gorgeous sunlight flood in. This kind of soft, diffused light is just chef’s kiss for photos, making everyone look amazing without those harsh shadows you get from direct artificial lighting.

• Pro Tip: When you’re checking out a potential event space NYC or the Hamptons, try to swing by around the same time your event will be happening to see how the natural light plays in the room.
• No windows? No problem (sometimes!). Look up! White ceilings are like a secret weapon. They’re fantastic for bouncing the light from my flash, creating a much softer and more even look. Trust me, colored walls or ceilings can cast some funky (and not in a good way) hues on your photos.

Outdoor Venues: Planning an outdoor event? Midday sun is a no-go for gorgeous photos. Think squinty eyes and harsh, unflattering shadows. Instead, aim for those golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. That’s when the light is warm, soft, and just makes everything glow.

• Hamptons event tip: If you’re looking at Hamptons event spaces, fall is your secret weapon! The sun sets a little earlier, giving you that dreamy evening light without pushing your photos right into dinnertime. 
• Midday must? If you absolutely have to have a midday event, scope out the venue for areas with natural shade – big trees, covered patios, anything that can filter that strong sunlight for beautiful portrait spots.

Room to Breathe: Space and Flow Matter!

Think about your guest list for your corporate event or private party. Now, picture them all in the space. Are they packed in like sardines? Not ideal for mingling, and definitely not ideal for getting great photos.

• Capacity check: Always ask the venue about its official capacity and make sure your guest count leaves some breathing room. Happy guests make for happy photos!

Match Your Vibe (or Hire a Pro to Create It!)

The inherent style of a venue can really set the tone for your event. Love that industrial-chic look? For those drawn to a refined industrial aesthetic, select Brooklyn spaces offer a distinctive character.  Dreaming of something super elegant? A sophisticated Manhattan rooftop venue spot might be perfect.

• Authenticity is key: Look for a space that naturally aligns with your vision. It’ll save you a lot of effort (and potentially money) on extra décor.
• Hire a planner: Don’t rule out a space completely if it’s not exactly what you envisioned. A talented party planner can work wonders in transforming a blank canvas into your dream setting.