I started this blog series before leaving our last assignment, so it feels fitting to share what I learned during our time stationed at Wright-Patterson AFB before we head to our next adventure. If you’re a milspouse photographer coming up on a move to Wright-Patt, I’d love for you to learn from my experience in this Dayton, OH Photography Spotlight!

What are your top three favorite locations for sessions? Briefly share about each.

Wegerzyn Gardens

This was hands-down my favorite place to shoot during our time in Dayton. I almost always scheduled sessions here in the morning and frequently had the gardens nearly to ourselves.

Because there’s a dense line of trees along the entire east side of the property, I recommend waiting a bit after sunrise to start shooting so the sun has time to rise high enough to filter through the trees. Once it does, the light is beautiful.

For peak florals, plan sessions between April and October. While the space is still nice in late fall/winter, it does feel pretty bare once they remove all the flowers.

Parking is easy thanks to a large on-site lot, and this location is covered under the Metroparks permit, which makes logistics simple.

See more of this location here!

Smith Gardens

This small garden tucked away in Oakwood is a great spot to explore if you’re looking for something quieter than the main Metroparks. It offers gorgeous color in the fall and beautiful tulips and blooms in the spring.

I was told it’s a popular location for homecoming and prom photos, though I personally never ran into crowds there. Just something to keep in mind during that season!

Parking is available along the street in the surrounding neighborhood, and no permit was required during my time there.

See more of this location here!

Carillon Historical Park

Carillon Historical Park is a fun location both to visit and to photograph, especially if you want variety in a single spot. From the large hill with the bell tower near the parking lot to the many small historic buildings throughout the park, there are lots of options for backdrops within a short walking distance. A train runs through the park regularly, which is always a hit with little ones too!

I never photographed here in the spring, but loved it in the fall, when the colors really shine. A permit isn’t required, however, there is an entry fee for each member of your group.

See more of this location here!

Are there any particularly busy seasons for photographers in this area? Any events an incoming photographer should know about?

Spring and fall were definitely my busiest times of year. I loved hosting Christmas minis at Arrowood Studio and would highly recommend sessions there. Their sets were always gorgeous and the owners were extremely responsive.

What should an incoming photographer know about permits in this area?

The Five Rivers Metroparks permit was super affordable and the only one I needed in the area.

What is the biggest piece of advice you’d give to an incoming photographer?

If you enjoy photographing military ceremonies, you’ll have plenty of opportunities at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. It’s an incredible venue, but the lighting can be challenging, especially for light and airy shooters. I highly recommend being comfortable with off-camera flash, particularly in the Cold War Gallery, and planning to do family photos outside the museum whenever possible before the ceremony.

If you happen to live in Oakwood, joining Moms of Oakwood was one of the best things I did. While it’s not military-affiliated, it reminded me a lot of a well-run milspouse group: great events, strong word-of-mouth marketing, and genuinely helpful neighborhood insight. It was absolutely worth the small annual fee.

Any other local expertise you’d like to share?

If you aren’t celebrating every little thing with Graeter’s, you’re doing it wrong!! And if you’re sad to leave the world’s best ice cream behind when you leave Dayton, don’t worry, they ship! 😉

Where can other milspouse photographers connect with you?

Website: https://erinthompsonphoto.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erinthompsonphotography

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Are you a milspouse photographer interested in contributing? I’d love to have your insight! Please send me an email at erin@erinthompsonphoto.com and I’ll be in touch with the details!

If you enjoyed this Dayton, OH photography spotlight, be sure to check out other featured location guides and tips for moving your business!