This art museum overlooking downtown Dayton is a beautiful property which sits next to the Dayton Masonic Center. A great Dayton engagement session location this beautiful museum features a renovated outdoor staircase and fountain that is open to the public. I would recommend waiting until golden hour to do photos outside. Mid-day photos can be harsh with shadows.

The outdoor areas of the Dayton Art Institute have received major upgrades in the last few years. First of all, is the grand staircase leading from the road all the way to the front of the Dayton Art Institute. These steps are beautiful and provide many different options for photo locations. Although you are reading about engagement sessions, this is a great area for large wedding party photos.

Additionally, Leo the Lion and many outdoor sculptures have either been upgraded or moved. Daytime and nighttime photos here are great and can even provide a good cityscape view of downtown Dayton Ohio. If you choose to take photos inside the museum, three admission tickets will need to be purchased. So far, my couples have chosen to only do outdoor engagement photos here.