Picture Perfect Oxford
A Photoshoot Guide in Oxford, OH
Find the best location
There are so many great spots to have your photoshoot in Oxford! Pick a location for the right occasion, theme, or mood that suits your photography goals. Below is a list of some of Oxford’s favorite locations for picture-perfect scenery!
Dogwood Park Formal Gardens: Located by the Marcum Conference Center, there is a beautifully landscaped garden and park called Arthur F. Conrad Formal Garden. This is a classic go-to spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and photography. Notable spot: Rose Garden
Oxford Community Arts Center: Step into the elegance of the historic “Ox College” and Caroline Scott Harrison Memorial known as Oxford Community Arts Center. Check out the grand ballroom, a charming covered front porch, and beautiful community garden which offers stunning backdrops for any occasion.
Hueston Woods: An Ohio State Park located within 10 minutes from the city of Oxford. Walk through beautiful hiking trails and capture nature’s beauty, or visit one of Hueston Woods historic structures. This is a hub for outdoor recreation photography. Notable spot: Hedge Apple Trail, Lake Acton, Doty Pioneer Farm
Black Covered Bridge: Built in 1868 to access a saw and grist mill on Four Mile Creek and recognized as one of the longest and most impressive of Ohio’s covered bridges. The Black Covered Bridge was restored in 2000 with a State of Ohio Bicentennial Historic Marker placed at the site. Many locals and travelers visit this spot and can enjoy taking a walk through the bridge connecting to the Oxford Area Trails.
Pollinator Butterfly Garden: If you’re looking for easy access to capture the essence of spring wildflowers, the Pollinator Butterfly Garden is the right spot for your photo shoot. If you’re feeling adventurous during your photoshoot, take the trail over to Silvoor Biological Sanctuary for more Wildflowers. Notable spot: Dewitt Homestead
The Upham Arch: One of the most famous legends at Miami University, if you kiss your true love under the arch, you will marry and the bond will never be broken. Snap a timeless photo under the iconic Upham Hall Arch, one of Oxford’s most romantic spots and a favorite for Miami Mergers. Framed by classic red brick and campus greenery, it’s the picture perfect place to celebrate love and tradition. FUN FACT: Miami broke the Guinness World Record for the most people renewing their vows under the arch.
Western Campus: Ideal setting for paths of mature shaded trees, ponds, historic stone bridges, lamp posts, and stone architecture. Notable spot: Kumler Chapel
Time of Year
In Southwest Ohio, the Spring and Fall are the most popular times to plan photoshoots because of the stunning natural landscapes when the season changes. Visit Miami University’s campus in the fall when the foliage starts turning, or take a stroll through the trails when the wildflowers are in full bloom during April and May.
Themed Photoshoots
Check our calendar for upcoming opportunities for event-themed photo-ops. Notable event: OXtoberfest
For time-piece photoshoots, Oxford, OH has many preserved historical sites open to the public (check guidelines and operating hours). Make it a weekend trip for one of Oxford Museum Association events to plan your stay. Notable event: Pioneer Day
Photo Props
Props are a fun addition to any photoshoot, but please leave the place as you have arrived, or better. This means NO confetti, not even “biodegradable” ones! If you’re willing to put the time into it, there is an alternative option to confetti. Just grab a hole punch (different shapes are cool), and a pile of dead leaves to make biodegradable confetti.
Props should be easy to carry in and carry out. Don’t carry more than what you need, consider your walking distance to/from your photoshoot. If you’re walking on a trail, or attending an event, you probably don’t want to lug around more than what a backpack can carry. (click image to learn more)
We hope you enjoy some of our favorite spots in Oxford for a scenic photoshoot. Be creative, and have fun creating lasting memories!
Looking for a photographer in Oxford? Check out our local recommended list below!
