Rental Photography

Photography is encouraged at the Dayton Art Institute! The public can take photos on our grand staircase or grounds any time as long as there is not an event happening and weather permitting. There is no fee for photos taken outside on the museum grounds and photos taken on the museum grounds do not need to be scheduled in advance. In the event of a rental, Security will place signs indicating closure of specific areas.

Non-Staged Photography: Inside the building, our guests are permitted to take photos of their visit following the guidelines below for non-staged photos.

Definition: Photos of guests’ visit such as of their favorite works of art or of their party in a non-professional or stylistic manner and for no special occasion other than to remember their time at the museum.

Guests must follow all other museum policies including but not limited to…

  • Leaving all sharp objects including pocketknives and weapons including pepper spray in their vehicle
  • Storing backpacks, large bags, food and liquids in our free lockers
  • Remaining at least 18 inches away from art at all times
  • Use only handheld cameras or phones
  • We do not allow any tripods or lighting equipment in the galleries. Drones are not permitted inside the DAI.
  • Flash photography is not permitted in the galleries but can be used in the Great Hall, Hale Cloister and Gothic Cloister
  • Some works of art are marked with a no photography icon and cannot be photographed
  • Guests cannot solicit other guests for photos inside the building
  • Guests cannot block any doors, exits or stairs while taking photos

We encourage our guests to share their photos on social media and tag us using @daytonartinstitute.

Staged Portraits (family, engagement, graduation, prom, etc.) & Commercial Photography: There is a $75 fee for staged portraits or commercial photography taken inside the museum. Staged portraits and commercial photography inside the museum must be scheduled in advance by calling Tina McPhearson at 937-223-5277, ext. 125. Sessions are subject to our events calendar, staffing and hours of operation. Walk-in sessions are subject to the approval of Guest Services and Security and are not guaranteed.

Definition: Stylistic photos using the museum as a backdrop. Usually celebrating special occasions such as graduation, prom, engagements or maternity.

Staged photography in the galleries is only permitted for couples hosting their wedding at the Dayton Art Institute on their wedding day.

Any photography at the museum should not interfere with other guests’ use of the facilities or any events (public or private) taking place at the museum.

To view the DAI’s full photography policy, please CLICK HERE.