The Most Popular Engagement Session Locations In Dayton, Cincinnati, & Columbus

Choosing The Location For Engagement Photos That Is Right For You

Your significant other asked, and you said “Yes!” You’ve selected the wedding and engagement photographer of your dreams (me). Now, it’s time to decide where to have your engagement photos taken. Use this guide to explore the most popular engagement session locations in Dayton and Cincinnati.

Several factors make this decision important. You need to consider what to wear, what to bring, what time of day, and where to go. As an engagement photographer based in Dayton, Ohio, I photograph at many amazing spots around Dayton, Cincinnati, and Columbus. I recommend choosing a meaningful location or a setting you simply love. Did you get engaged in the Oregon District? Choose it. Do you love nature? Choose Cox Arboretum. Did you both graduate from U.D.? Choose it. I hope this gives you some direction. Now, to help make your decision easier, I want to share these popular Dayton engagement session locations with you.

A Few Couple’s Session Tips To Prepare For Your Appointment

I am providing several engagement preparation tips to help make your 1-hour engagement photo shoot a success. Allow yourself extra time to perfect your wardrobe, brush hair, adjust makeup, and travel. Arrive early to your session and enjoy a few moments of relaxation before we start. I am always early, so please text me when you arrive and are ready.

Feel free to bring meaningful props or pets. If you bring a pet, have a third person to care for it. This helps during the rest of the shoot. It is difficult to wrangle a dog and be the center of the photos.

Keep your hands free throughout the session, so please avoid carrying extra clothing, purse, drinks, or anything else. Leave these items in your vehicle. We can return halfway through the session to change and freshen up if time permits. Large phones and wallets are very obvious, so please leave them in your car.

Having fun and being relaxed during your session is important. Relaxed, natural poses often look the best. Sometimes, I’ll ask you to pose in an unnatural way to get a specific photo. I understand it feels awkward, but it’ll look great. Relax, laugh, and have fun. Portraits shine when you’re being yourself. Remember, just because there’s a camera pointing at you doesn’t mean you have to look at it. Often, the most meaningful images come from moments of genuine enjoyment, not posing.

Best Engagement Photo Locations In Dayton

Downtown Dayton Spots

• 2nd Street Market
• Dayton Arcade
• Dayton Art Institute
• Historic Oregon District
• University of Dayton UD

Dayton-Area Parks

• Carriage Hill MetroPark
• Charleston Falls Preserve
• Cox Arboretum MetroPark
• Dayton Grotto Gardens
• Deeds Point MetroPark
• Hills & Dales MetroPark
• Oakes Quarry Park
• Sugarcreek MetroPark
• Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark

Aviation-Themed Locations

• Air Force Museum

Yellow Springs Locations

• Yellow Springs & Glen Helen

“These are fantastic! We just looked at them together after dinner and we are so happy with how they turned out. I will definitely be writing some positive reviews for you on the Knot and Google! Thanks so much and we can’t wait to see you in January!” – Allison S. 2025

Best Engagement Photo Locations In Cincinnati

Downtown Cincinnati Locations

• Downtown Cincinnati
• Fountain Square
• Music Hall Cincinnati (coming soon!)
• Over The Rhine
• Smale Riverfront Park / The Banks
• Washington Park

Cincinnati-Area Parks

• Alms Park Cincinnati
• Ault Park Cincinnati
• Eden Park Cincinnati

Northern Kentucky Locations

• Devou Park Covington, KY
• Newport On The Levee

Columbus Photography Locations Downtown Scioto River And Other Spots

In March 2021 I spent a day photographing downtown Columbus, just for fun. I found so many incredible photography spots to use in the future. Many of the best Columbus photography locations were to the west of the city along the Scioto River. The rest of these Columbus photography spots were in the core of downtown.

The Scioto River just west of downtown is actually really beautiful. I attended OSU for a year in the 1990s, and I always felt the Columbus rivers were unkempt and ugly. Maybe they were or weren’t. Regardless, this stretch of the Scioto is beautiful and perfect for engagement photos.

You can see various detail shots and wide shots of downtown that I chose to take. I like the photos of the Ohio Statehouse and the Ohio Theatre. I have been by both many times but never appreciated their beauty. Purposefully walking around forces me to examine my surroundings and look for unique angles.

Best Columbus Photography Locations

If you’re looking for picturesque spots to capture stunning photographs in Columbus, Ohio, you’re in luck. The city is brimming with diverse and captivating locations that offer endless possibilities for photographers. Whether you’re a professional or just enjoy snapping photos as a hobby, Columbus has something for everyone. Here are a few of the best photography locations in the area:

1. German Village

With its charming brick streets, historic houses, and beautiful gardens, German Village is a must-visit location for photographers. Wander through Schiller Park, explore the quaint streets lined with colorful flowers, or capture the architectural details of the well-preserved homes. German Village offers a unique blend of beauty and history that makes for stunning photography.

2. Short North Arts District

Known for its vibrant arts scene, the Short North Arts District is a hub of creativity and inspiration. This trendy neighborhood is bursting with colorful murals, art galleries, and eclectic shops. As you explore the streets, you’ll find endless photo opportunities, from imaginative street art to atmospheric cafes and bustling nightlife.

3. Scioto Mile and Bicentennial Park

Situated along the Scioto River, the Scioto Mile and Bicentennial Park offer fantastic views of the city skyline. From the iconic fountains and bridges to the lush green spaces, this area is a favorite among photographers. Capture the skyline at sunset, take long exposure shots of the fountains, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll while documenting the city’s natural beauty.

4. Ohio State University

If you’re seeking architectural marvels, Ohio State University’s campus won’t disappoint. The stunning historic buildings, grand libraries, and beautifully landscaped courtyards make this an ideal location for both portrait and landscape photography. Don’t miss the iconic “The Oval” – a large, open green space that sits at the heart of the campus.

5. Topiary Park

Located in the Discovery District, Topiary Park is a unique gem in Columbus. Inspired by Georges Seurat’s famous painting “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte,” this park brings the artwork to life through meticulously sculpted topiaries. Explore the gardens and capture the artistic beauty of the living sculptures from different angles.

6. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Nature enthusiasts and flower lovers will find their paradise at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. With its extensive collection of exotic plants, stunning indoor gardens, and exquisite outdoor landscapes, this urban oasis offers countless opportunities for striking botanical photography. From the Orchid Forest to the Japanese Garden, every corner of this gem is a visual treat.

These are just a few of the incredible Columbus photography locations the city has to offer. No matter your style or preference, you’re sure to find inspiration around every corner of this vibrant city. So grab your camera, explore these captivating spots, and capture the beauty of Columbus through your lens.

Engagement Session Locations In Other States

Famous And Popular New York City Engagement Photo Locations

• Bryant Park
• Central Park – I photographed an awesome engagement session here!
• Grand Central Terminal
• Times Square
• The Village
• Brooklyn Bridge

Beautiful And Popular Chicago Engagement Photo Locations

• Ohio Street Beach – I photographed an awesome engagement session here!
• Chicago River – I photographed an awesome engagement session here!
• Lake Michigan – I photographed an awesome engagement session here!
• Chicago River Walk – I photographed an awesome engagement session here!
• Grant Park
• South Pond Nature Walk – I photographed an awesome engagement session here!

“Kevin recently photographed our wedding and he also did our engagement photos last fall. He did such an awesome job with our wedding. We had a great time with him and his pictures were absolutely beautiful! He always had great ideas and worked through pictures quickly. Kevin was very accommodating and available to answer questions or provide any information you might need. Thank you Kevin!!”

Lastly, it is truly an honor when clients pick me to photograph such an intimate session. Thanks for allowing me to photograph you any of the Engagement session locations In Dayton!

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