The Foundry Creates a Perfect Backdrop for Photo Shoots in Long Island City, NY
Finding the ideal photo shoot location requires more than just attractive backgrounds. You need versatile spaces, authentic character, and practical logistics that support your creative vision. Too many photographers and production teams settle for generic studios or navigate complex permits at public locations. At The Foundry, we've maintained a 19th-century industrial building on Ninth Street as a dedicated space for professional photography and film work. From engagement sessions to product photography, our raw interiors and outdoor settings deliver the visual quality your projects demand.
The Foundry in Long Island City is an ideal photo shoot location, offering over 3,000 square feet of versatile space. It features industrial interiors, a greenhouse, outdoor courtyard, rooftop terrace with skyline views, and intimate rooms, making it suitable for engagement shoots, product photography, film productions, and other creative projects.
Genuine Industrial History Provides Character
Generic white studios serve a purpose, but they lack depth. Our building tells a real story spanning more than a century. Fine varnishes were manufactured within these walls before the Albra Metal Foundry took over operations. Their original logo still marks the corner at 9th Street and 43rd Avenue, offering authentic detail many photographers incorporate into their compositions. By 1906, we were one of several steel foundries supporting New York City's riverfront manufacturers. The structure sat abandoned by the 1970s until the Du Val family purchased it in 1980. They meticulously restored the space to showcase its industrial character and stunning proportions, then opened it for events and creative projects in 2001. We're the only remaining foundry building in Long Island City today.
Multiple Settings Under One Roof
We offer 3,000+ square feet of raw interior space that adapts to different photography requirements. Our Main Space features industrial proportions with a blend of modern and classic design elements that consistently photograph well. The indoor Greenhouse brings natural elements together with architectural interest, where plants and light create a distinct environment for portraits or commercial work. Our lush outdoor Courtyard provides greenery and open sky for exterior shots while maintaining an urban context. The rooftop Terrace gives you Manhattan skyline backgrounds when your project needs that recognizable New York aesthetic. The Albra Room and The Billiard Room offer smaller, contained environments when your shoot requires intimate settings or specific atmospheres.
Built for Professional Production Work
We function as a photography venue throughout the year. Engagement shoots, product photography, and creative projects happen here regularly because our spaces consistently deliver results. We host film and video productions frequently, and our gallery includes a dedicated TV & Film section showcasing this work. The industrial character, spatial flexibility, and architectural features explain why experienced photographers and production teams return. When your professional reputation depends on strong visuals, location selection becomes critical.
Accessible Long Island City Position
We're located at 42-38 9th Street with straightforward access for crew and equipment. Multiple subway lines serve this area: E or M trains stop at 23rd and Court Square, the R train reaches Queens Plaza, N or 7 trains serve Queensborough Plaza, and the F train stops at 21st Street/Queens Bridge. This connectivity helps when coordinating talent, stylists, and production teams arriving from different parts of the city. We maintain our main entrance at 42-38 Ninth Street and a separate entrance at 42-32 Ninth Street for equipment and catering logistics. Long Island City gives you authentic New York settings without Manhattan's permitting challenges.
Supporting Various Creative Projects
While engagement photography and product shoots represent significant booking portions, we accommodate broader creative needs. Film and video productions use our spaces regularly. Corporate photography for marketing materials, editorial fashion work, and portfolio projects all function within our adaptable environment. The raw space approach means your creative direction leads rather than competing with predetermined aesthetics.
Conclusion
The Foundry distinguishes itself among Long Island City photo shoot locations through authentic 19th-century industrial architecture, 3,000+ square feet of flexible interior space, multiple distinct areas including greenhouse and rooftop terrace access, and consistent performance across professional photography, film, and video productions.
Ready to evaluate our spaces for your next project? Call (718) 786-7776 or email ao@thefoundry.info to discuss availability and schedule a tour.
FAQs
What makes your venue appropriate for professional photography?
We provide authentic 19th-century industrial architecture, 3,000+ square feet of raw adaptable space, indoor and outdoor environments, including a greenhouse and courtyard, plus rooftop terrace access with Manhattan skyline views.
Which photography projects work in your spaces?
We accommodate engagement shoots, product photography, creative projects, and serve as a location for film and video productions regularly. Corporate photography and editorial work also happen here frequently.
How accessible is your location for production teams?
Multiple subway lines serve Long Island City: E or M trains to 23rd and Court Square, R train to Queens Plaza, N or 7 trains to Queensborough Plaza, and F train to 21st Street/Queens Bridge. We have separate entrances for main access and equipment at 42-38 and 42-32 Ninth Street.
What distinct areas are available for different setups?
Our venue includes the Main Space (3,000+ square feet), the outdoor Courtyard, the indoor Greenhouse, the rooftop Terrace with Manhattan skyline views, the Albra Room, and the Billiard Room for varied visual requirements.