CIEE High School Summer in Madrid, Spain: Photography & Culture Recently Updated

Photograph the real Madrid: royal palaces, bold murals, and churros after midnight.

Forget quiet studios—your classroom is electric, expressive Madrid. Spend the summer learning photography with golden-hour light bouncing off grand plazas, flamenco dancers mid-spin, and bold graffiti layered on centuries-old walls. Whether you're using a DSLR or your phone, you’ll grow your digital photography skills and finish the summer with a portfolio you’re proud to exhibit.

In hands-on classes, workshops, and guided photo walks, you’ll learn from professional photographers and practice shooting in real-world settings. Master fundamentals and practice new techniques from composition and lighting to motion blur and low-light photography.

There’s plenty of time to explore Madrid. Kayak in Valle de Lozoya, unwind in Retiro Park, or snack your way through a tapas crawl with friends. On excursions to Segovia and Valencia, you’ll photograph Gothic castles, coastal sunlight, and colorful new scenes. Your summer in Madrid will sharpen your creative eye, build your portfolio, and set you up for future success—whether you're applying to art school, entering competitions, or just discovering your style.