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CIEE HS Summer Abroad: Photography & Culture in Sydney

Program Overview

Spend your summer chasing light, color, and stories through the lens, alongside new friends who are just as obsessed with photography as you are. Whether you're using a DSLR or your phone, you’ll build your digital photography skills while exploring Australia’s most iconic city.

Sydney’s diverse landscapes and ever-shifting weather are a photographer's dream: constantly changing light conditions against awe-inspiring natural views. Through hands-on workshops and interactive sessions, you’ll develop essential skills in composition, lighting, and editing. You’ll also explore the ethics of photography and work with community members to capture and tell stories that matter. Your work will culminate in a final gallery show, where you’ll present a selection of your strongest images and an artist’s statement that brings your creative voice to life.

Your summer includes two excursions beyond the city. In the Blue Mountains, hike eucalyptus forests, spot koalas, and photograph incredible bushland. In Canberra, cruise Lake Burley Griffin, explore the National Portrait Gallery, and devour the country’s best foodie scene.

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Program Highlights

Join a local sports coaching session where you’ll have the option to step behind the lens and practice capturing motion, energy, and emotion through action photography.
Let loose at Luna Park, Sydney’s iconic harborside amusement park. Ride the rollercoasters, snack on classic fair treats, and soak up the views as you spend a carefree afternoon with friends.
Walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge and photograph sweeping skyline views, boats below, and the geometric lines of this iconic landmark.
Explore the forested trails of the Blue Mountains and shoot waterfalls, sandstone cliffs, and shifting light through eucalyptus trees.
Visit the world-famous Sydney Opera House and practice shooting patterns, shadows, and reflections along the harbor’s edge.

What's Included

Tuition & Fees
Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
Some Program Activity Costs
Wifi Costs
Medical / Accident Insurance
Travel Insurance
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
Emergency Support

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Sydney, Australia

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered
  • 2026

Eligible Nationalities

  • American

Education Levels & Language

  • Language
  • English
  • Education
  • High School Freshman (1st Year)
  • High School Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • High School Junior (3rd Year)
  • High School Senior (4th Year)
  • High School 5th Year or More

Accommodation Options

  • Group living
  • Other

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Age Requirement

14-17

Duration

  • 2-4 Weeks
  • Summer

Program Reviews

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Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2025 - High School Abroad
GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - High School Abroad

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