Looking for options for Downtown Cincinnati Engagement Photos? Take a look at these top recommendations by a Cincy wedding photographer.

What are the Best Locations for Downtown Cincinnati Engagement Photos?

When first planning a location for engagement photos, you definitely should consider downtown Cincinnati! There is so much to consider in this fun and vibrant city. As a wedding and engagement photographer based in Cincinnati and Dayton, I love photographing in the downtown area. I love all the color, art, murals, bridges, water views, and architecture. I think it’s interesting that many people don’t think of Cincinnati as a city that makes for great photos (I think many people outside the area think of the general rust-belt vibe) but it is indeed a great spot.

You may have clicked on this blog to get some ideas for great locations for downtown Cincinnati engagement photos, and below I’ll walk you through some of my favorites. I’m sure there are many others and I’ll also try to describe some honorable mentions. The list below is in no particular order at all! When I work with couples that want to photograph in downtown Cincinnati for their engagement photos, I tell them I’ll visit multiple spots – it’s fun that way!

If you’re new to the Cincinnati area, or you’re visiting from another location, there is a lot to do here! I recommend checking out the Cincinnati experience website. They do a fantastic job of highlighting all there is to do here (so if you’re for only a weekend, definitely make a itinerary for yourself!) If you’re a local, I still recommend checking it out as it give you some new and fun ideas (and ones that may not even be highlighted in this blog!

Without further ado, here are some of my favorite spots in downtown Cincinnati engagement photos!

Option One: Parking Garage Views

Cincinnati is home to several garages where you can go make a visit to the top! These particular photos were taken on the top of the garage above Walgreens in downtown Cincinnati. This couple decided to bring their cars to the top of the garage! As you can see, you’re surrounded by many downtown buildings.

Option Two: Walnut and 6th Intersection

This intersection is home to colorful restaurants! Nada and Bru Burger are diagonally across from one another and as you can see, there is so much color that pops out! Not too far from this location is an alley with some fun murals as well (not pictured).

Option Three: Smale Park

I love Smale park! It’s right off the Ohio river and it’s so picturesque. Smale stretches down to Yeatman’s cove, another beautiful spot in the city with lots of gardens and trees.

Option Four: Roebling Bridge

The Roebling bridge is viewable from Smale Park, but I decided to include it as a separate, because well, it’s a spectacular option to think about for your downtown Cincinnati engagement photos! The blue bridge is an iconic view in Cincinnati.

Option Five: The Banks

The banks is in very close walking distance from Smale (parts of it, right across the street!) I love finding areas of the Banks where the sun pops in between the trees and waterfall that’s there! The Banks is a fun area as that’s where the Bengals stadium is and it stretches down to the Reds stadium, surrounded by plenty of restaurants and bars.

Option Six: 21c Hotel

My photos are right outside the hotel, across from the Aronoff. This spot is right on Walnut street, but I love the lights and the chandelier that’s out front. It makes for stunning photos!

Honorable Mentions:

So, I wanted this blog to focus solely on the downtown district, but I’d be amiss if I didn’t mention Over-The-Rhine! OTR is a neighborhood of the downtown Cincinnati area. You can check out my blog here on a session from Washington Park, right in the heart of OTR.

Additionally, I recommend to check out the Cincinnati court house, the P&G Lawn Park, and Piatt park. If you’re looking for a wedding or engagement photographer, reach out today!