I want to get into photography, where do I start? One of the best ways to kickstart a career in photography is with a photography internship abroad. They help build skills, experience, and crucially, a portfolio. More than this, they let you experience life as a jobbing photographer where you can see what it’s like to turn up at photography locations with a camera and an assignment to complete.
The next question you’ll need answered is where are the best places for photography internships? In this blog, we’ll lay out where to do photography internships, how to find good photography locations, and offer some tips for photography internships abroad. So, if you’ve ever said, “I want to learn photography, where do I start?”, keep reading.
3 Best Places For Photography Internships
1. Brazil
Brazil offers a vibrant, dynamic, and exhilarating environment for photography internships. An internship in Brazil can help you develop a versatile portfolio while immersing you in one of the most culturally rich nations on the planet.
The country’s diverse landscapes, including pristine beaches along the Cocoa Coast, the vast wetlands of the Pantanal, the dramatic Iguazu Falls, and the awesome Amazon Rainforest, make Brazil a treasure trove for nature photographers. Containing global biodiversity hotspots, Brazil has plenty to offer a wildlife photographer too.
What makes Brazil stand out as one of the best places for photography internships though, is the cultural and urban photography opportunities. You can explore the bustling streets of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, where you’ll find festive events like the world-famous Carnival. So, you certainly won’t be wondering how to find good photography locations in Brazil, They’re everywhere you look.
2. South Africa
“I want to learn photography. Where do I start?” is a question so many ask. Why not learn somewhere you’ve never been before? South Africa’s vibrant cultures and dynamic cities provide rich opportunities for documentary and street photography, while the wildlife-rich savannas can help you explore natural subjects. With so much visual diversity, interns can build a strong and versatile portfolio in a single location, and it’s especially great for those interested in the impact of humanitarian photography.
South Africa offers an array of iconic sites that make it ideal for photography. Cape Town’s Table Mountain and the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood provide striking urban and natural contrasts. Kruger National Park is perfect for capturing wildlife in its natural habitat, while the Drakensberg Mountains offer dramatic landscapes and sweeping vistas. Coastal locations like Boulders Beach, with its colony of African penguins, add unique and memorable subjects to any photography portfolio.
As an added bonus, friendly and welcoming citizens make it easier for interns to engage with the community and capture authentic moments. An internship in South Africa offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural depth, perfect for developing a diverse portfolio.
3. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a paradise for nature and wildlife photographers, renowned for its rich biodiversity and commitment to conservation. As a global leader in sustainable development, this is where to do photography if you want to document some of the most successful sustainability models on Earth.
The country’s numerous national parks and reserves, such as Corcovado and Manuel Antonio, are teeming with exotic species, from vibrant birds to elusive big cats. The myriad of landscapes include volcanic regions, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches. Additionally, the country’s small size, yet diverse ecosystems, mean that interns can experience a wide range of photographic opportunities within a short distance.
Best of all, Costa Rica’s commitment to eco-tourism ensures that photography interns can work in environments that prioritize sustainability and wildlife preservation. This makes Costa Rica an ideal place to hone your skills in photographing the natural world while helping to protect it.
5 Tips for Photography Internships
1. Research the Program
Before committing to a photography internship, thoroughly research the program to ensure it aligns with your goals and interests. Look into the types of photography you’ll be doing, the photography locations you’ll visit, and the mentors you’ll work with, and try to find the program that best supports your interests.
Understanding the structure and focus of the internship can help you make an informed decision and ensure that the program will provide valuable learning opportunities. Additionally, researching the program can help you prepare better and set realistic expectations for your internship experience. In relation to managing your expectations, reading internship reviews and testimonials from previous interns can help you get an idea of what’s to come is essential.
2. Pack the Right Gear
Another question you may be pondering is, “I want to get into photography, where do I start?”. The first thing you’ll need is equipment. Having the right gear is the first step in a photography career, and crucial for making the most of photography internships.
To ensure you’ve got the right gear for your specific internship, research the requirements of the photography locations you’ll visit, considering factors like climate, terrain, and the type of subjects you’ll be photographing. If this is your first foray into professional photography, look for a versatile camera and essential accessories such as tripods, and extra batteries.
In fact, our top tip for all photography internships abroad is to pack plenty of extra batteries and memory cards. Remember to also pack protective cases and cleaning supplies to maintain your equipment in challenging environments.
3. Learn the Basics of the Local Culture
Ethical photography practices are essential when visiting photography locations abroad and a big part of this is showing respect to local culture. Understanding the local culture can enhance your photography and ensure respectful and meaningful interactions.
Before embarking on photography internships abroad, take the time to learn about the customs, traditions, and etiquette of the community you’ll be photographing. This knowledge can help you build a rapport with local people, making them more comfortable and open to being photographed.
Additionally, cultural competency is also an important career skill for professional photographers. Being culturally aware can lead to more authentic and impactful images that truly capture the essence of the place and respecting local customs also demonstrates professionalism which can open doors to future opportunities.
4. Build a Strong Portfolio
If you’re thinking about a portfolio and wondering, “I want to get into photography. Where do I start?”. The simple answer is just to start! Start by building a strong and varied portfolio, this will act as the foot you wedge in the door to lay the groundwork of your reputation. A well-rounded portfolio can help you stand out to potential clients or employers and demonstrate your ability to adapt to different photographic challenges.
This is one of the best uses of photography internships abroad — having the opportunity to build a diverse and strong portfolio through your experience with professionals. Focus on capturing a wide range of subjects, from landscapes and wildlife to portraits and cultural events. Experiment with different techniques and styles to showcase your versatility and creativity. Most of all, take advantage of feedback from mentors and peers to curate your portfolio.
5. Network with Professionals
Networking opportunities are always one of the most beneficial aspects of any internship, and this is certainly the case with photography internships abroad.
Take advantage of opportunities to meet and interact with experienced photographers, industry experts, and fellow interns. Building relationships within the photography community can lead to future job opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship. Networking also allows you to gain insights into the industry, stay updated on trends, and receive valuable advice that can help advance your career.
Bon Voyage! You’re Headed to One of the Best Places for Photography
Working out where to do photography internships can take time, but it’s a decision worth putting some thought into. Now you know the best places for photography internships, you’re ready to start picking programs and planning trips to your dream photography locations.
Roots provide well-structured programs in some of the most photogenic locations around the world, ensuring that interns gain diverse and high-quality content for their portfolios. With a focus on sustainability and cultural immersion, Roots offers opportunities to learn about and respect the local environments and communities while honing your craft with a camera.
Browse All Our Available Photography Internships Abroad
This blog was written by Tom Rusbridge and edited by Regan Carter
