In a globally connected industry where cultural context shapes imagery, understanding differing perspectives is essential. Different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences influence how people interpret images, making it important that photographers build awareness of nuances. One of the best ways to build this wider perspective is with an international photography internship.
A photography internship abroad will give you the cultural context and diverse subject matter you need to grow as a photographer. An AIFS Abroad internship will help you learn valuable skills from industry experts in a new setting that is filled with photographic potential and helpful mentors. At AIFS Abroad, we offer incredible photography internships in some of the world’s most exciting and picture-perfect cities, so here’s our list of the top five destinations for photography internships.
Want to frame your future in the industry? Explore AIFS Abroad’s top 5 global cities for photography internships!
1. Florence
Florence is an unbeatable city for photography interns because of its unique blend of extensive history, breathtaking architecture, and colorful street life—all perfect for honing your visual storytelling skills. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is filled with world-famous artistic and architectural masterpieces, from Michelangelo’s David to the Duomo. Interns can refine their craft by capturing the interplay of light and show on the city’s historic streets, experimenting with portraiture in bustling piazzas, or documenting the artistic atmosphere that has inspired creatives for centuries. Here, you can intern at one of the city’s many photography studios, helping to capture images for postcards and souvenirs, independent designers, local businesses, weddings, elopements, or intimate tour trips. Some of your responsibilities may include helping with client relations, photoshoot set-up, and managing equipment.
When you’re not at your internship, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take pictures for personal projects and visit all the city’s famous tourist attractions, such as the Florence Cathedral and Piazzale Michelangelo. While you may never want to leave this stunning city, Tuscany’s rolling hills and charming villages are easily accessible, making for the perfect day trip or weekend getaway. In Italy’s countryside you can practice your landscape photography as you take pictures of quaint Tuscan houses, picturesque vineyards, and the welcoming locals. Do more than picture yourself here—apply now for a photography internship in Florence!
2. Milan
Milan is a top choice for photography interns thanks to its strong fashion, design, and media industries, all of which rely on bold and experienced photographers to tell their story. As Italy’s fashion capital, Milan offers opportunities to intern at small and independent fashion houses, modeling agencies, and magazines, capturing runway shows, editorial shoots, and behind-the-scenes moments. Interns interested in commercial photography can gain hands-on experience with advertising agencies, luxury brands, luxury hotels, and creative studios that are at the forefront of global photography trends. Milan’s creative community is all about innovation—creating bold and striking imagery that captures the senses and speaks to glamorous clientele. Gain valuable photography experience in a range of critical creative industries with a photography internship in Milan.
During your off time from your photography internship, you can dive into personal projects and explore the city at your leisure. Visit popular attractions like Duomo di Milano and Sforzesco Castle, along with lesser-known sites like Ca’ de L’Oreggia (a bronze ear protruding from a wall) and Piazza del Quadrilatero (a luxury shopping street that is tucked away and filled with Baroque architecture). Milan is packed with hidden gems, and with a photography internship in the city, you can try to capture them all!
3. San José
If you want to experience lively Latin culture in a city surrounded by unmatched natural landscapes, San José is an incredible choice for your photography internship. The city is packed with colonial-era architecture, colorful street art, and bustling local markets, providing excellent subject matter. You can capture daily life in historic districts like Barrio Amón, where stunning architecture from art deco manses to bright pink Victorian structures create the perfect backdrop. San José is packed with opportunities for aspiring photographers who want to intern at environmental organizations, wildlife conservation projects, or travel publications, where you can photograph lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and exotic wildlife. Opportunities with NGOs and eco-tourism are everywhere in San José, offering interns the chance to gain firsthand experience with adventure, landscape, and sustainable travel photography.
Outside of your photography internship, you can immerse yourself in the joys of life in Costa Rica. Indulge in the country’s unique take on Latin food—try gallo pinto for breakfast, a blend of rice and black beans mixed with local produce like onions, peppers, and often served with fried eggs, cheese, and fried plantains. During festivities, you can try tamal Costarricense (literally meaning “Costa Rican Tamale”), which puts a twist on the Mexican tamale. Use the healthy Costa Rican diet to power trips to the rainforests to search for wildlife, swim in waterfalls deep within the jungle, or hike one of the country’s mighty volcanoes. Live “pura vida” with a photography internship in San José!
4. New York City
New York City is a dream destination for photographers, offering unparalleled opportunities to develop technical skills, build a strong professional network, and gain real-world experience in one of the most recognizable cities in the world. As a global hub for media, fashion, and the arts, NYC is home to countless creative agencies, publications, and photography studios, providing interns with a variety of placement options. The city itself is filled with variation, from the energy of Times Square and the iconic architecture of the Flatiron District to the artistic and trendy scenes of Williamsburg and Harlem. Interns will collaborate with industry professionals and learn how to capture audiences in a highly competitive market, adjusting their style and techniques to meet clients’ needs. Click with top industry professionals and develop your craft with a photography internship in NYC!
When you’re not snapping pics and advancing your career, you can enjoy the New York state of mind. Hop on the subway and explore one of New York’s five boroughs, finding your favorite neighborhoods. Search for the coziest café that has the perfect atmosphere for working on personal projects, reading your favorite book, or chatting with a new friend. Go up to Queens’ Little India street on 74th to taste paneer and masala curries. Make the trip to Harlem in the evening to enjoy some smooth jazz over dinner. Or spend a day walking Manhattan from top to bottom. With a photography internship in NYC, you’ll never run out of things to do, see, or capture!
5. Paris
Paris is an exceptional choice for aspiring photographers, offering history, culture, fashion, and art in an iconic metropolitan city. The City of Light provides endless inspiration, from the iconic Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame to the charming, cobbled streets of Montmartre and the Seine’s picturesque riverbanks. Paris connects photographers with a variety of opportunities, including fashion houses, art galleries, media agencies, photography studios, and other local businesses. A photography internship here will help you develop a wide set of technical and creative skills in a real-world setting. You can refine your composition and lighting techniques by gaining exposure to a variety of environments—from the soft natural light of the Seine in the early morning to the dramatic studio lighting in the studio. You’ll also have the chance to assist with post-production and editing, honing your skills using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.
Beyond professional growth, Paris offers a one-of-a-kind cultural experience. The city is famous for legendary art collections within the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, along with dozens of smaller galleries where you can find works by emerging artists. Taste world-famous Parisian cuisine or simply snack on cheese and baguettes to your heart’s pleasure. Venture out of Paris to France’s famous countryside, filled with medieval towns, picturesque rural landscapes, and charming backgrounds just waiting for you to experience! Expand your horizons—and your portfolio—with a photography internship in Paris!
Looking to advance your career with an international photography internship? Connect with new cultures and develop your career simultaneously with AIFS Abroad!
An international photography internship is an incredible way to gain hands-on experience while immersing yourself in diverse cultures across the globe. AIFS Abroad provides unparalleled opportunities for aspiring photographers in some of the world’s most exciting cities. With inclusions such as housing, insurance, career readiness programming, excursions and activities, on-site staff, and emergency support, you’ll have a stress-free global education and professional development experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to gain hands-on photography experience with an internship abroad!
