New York Restoration Project

New York Restoration Project at Sherman Creek

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Photographing Sherman Creek Park for NYRP: A Day with My DJI Air 2S and Canon R3

Spending a day photographing Sherman Creek Park for the New York Restoration Project (NYRP) is always a rewarding experience. Nestled along the Harlem River, this spot is a hidden gem in Upper Manhattan, full of greenery, winding paths, and a waterfront that gives you a totally different perspective on the city.

Whenever I’m shooting for NYRP, I try to capture not just the beauty of the space but also the people who work so hard to maintain it. There’s a mix of portrait work—documenting the volunteers and staff—and landscape photography to showcase the park itself. This is where I love having a Canon R3 in hand. The autofocus is insanely fast, and paired with an RF 24-105mm F2.8, I can go from wide scenic shots to close-up environmental portraits in seconds.

Flying the DJI Air 2S Over Sherman Creek Park

On this particular day, I also brought along my DJI Air 2S for some aerial photography. Drone photography is an incredible tool for showing the scale of urban green spaces like Sherman Creek Park, where you can really appreciate how nature and the city blend together. From above, you see the river curving around the park, the skyline in the distance, and the way the trees and trails connect everything.

That said, flying a drone in New York City always comes with some challenges. Safety is key, especially when flying near water, buildings, and public areas. A few things I always keep in mind:

  • Check airspace restrictions – NYC is a tricky place to fly, so I always make sure I’m in a legal zone before even unpacking the drone.

  • Avoid flying directly over people – Even with great obstacle sensors, it’s not worth the risk. I make sure my flight paths avoid crowds.

  • Be mindful of the wind – Shooting by the river means unpredictable gusts, and I always keep an eye on battery levels in case I need to bring the drone back sooner than expected.

The Best Part: Seeing the Park from Every Angle

With the Canon R3, I was able to get some incredible close-up shots of the park’s plant life, volunteers in action, and the waterfront views. And with the DJI Air 2S, I captured sweeping aerial shots that give a whole new appreciation for how much green space NYRP has carved out in the city.

Photographing for NYRP at Sherman Creek Park is always a reminder of why I love this kind of work. Whether I’m on the ground with my camera or in the air with my drone, it’s all about telling the story of these spaces—how they grow, how people use them, and why they matter.

If you’ve never been to Sherman Creek Park, it’s definitely worth a visit. And if you’re a photographer, bring a camera—you won’t be disappointed.

NYRP Volunteers at Highbridge in New York City

NYRP Volunteer program photographer

Working as the photographer for the New York Restoration Project (NYRP) has been such a rewarding experience. It's more than just taking pictures—it’s about capturing the heart and soul of an organization that’s making a real difference in the city. From transforming neglected parks to bringing green spaces to underserved neighborhoods, NYRP's mission is inspiring, and being able to document it is something I’m truly proud of.

The events I’ve photographed range from community cleanups to fundraising galas, and it’s always a privilege to witness how much passion and effort go into everything they do. Whether it’s a group of volunteers planting trees or a board member speaking at an event, I’m always on the lookout for those authentic, powerful moments that tell the story of their impact.

One of the best parts of working with NYRP is seeing how much the people they serve appreciate these projects. It’s an environment where you can feel the positivity and drive, and it’s all about bringing people together for a greater cause. I’m lucky to have been able to play a small role in sharing these stories through my lens!

NYRP Ginger Festival

I’m eager to photograph more chef, food, and farm projects for non-profits and local organizations around New York and the Hudson Valley. There’s something special about working with projects that focus on sustainability, local ingredients, and supporting communities. I’ve always been passionate about food photography, and it’s even more meaningful when the work supports a good cause. Whether it’s documenting a farm-to-table event, capturing chefs working with local farmers, or telling the story of an organization making a positive impact, I’d love to contribute my photography to projects that are focused on nourishing both people and the planet. If you’re involved in a food or farming initiative and need a photographer who’s excited about telling your story, let’s connect!