You don’t need a professional camera, or a photography degree, to capture unforgettable photos on your AESU trip. With the right techniques (and a little creativity), your phone is more than enough to document cobblestone streets, alpine views, iconic landmarks, and all the memories in between. Whether you’re posting to Instagram, entering an AESU photo contest, or just building your camera roll, here’s how to level up your travel photos across Europe —no fancy gear required. Read on to learn more!
Iconic Angles to Try in Europe’s Most Photogenic Spots
Sometimes the difference between an average photo and a wow one is all about perspective.
Santorini, Greece
Skip the straight-on cliff shots and try photographing upward from staircases or balconies to capture the white-and-blue layers stacked against the sky. Sunrise and sunset soften the light and reduce harsh shadows.
Paris, France
Instead of centering the Eiffel Tower, frame it through archways, trees, café umbrellas, or bridges. Shooting slightly off-center makes your photos feel more cinematic and less postcard perfect.
Rome, Italy
Ancient landmarks like the Colosseum shine when you include texture, arches, stone pathways, or columns in the foreground. Try stepping back and letting people walk through the frame to add scale and storytelling.
The Swiss Alps
Use wide-angle mode sparingly and include something in the foreground, a railing, wildflowers, or even a friend, to show just how massive the mountains really are.
Easy Editing Tips Using Free Apps
You don’t need heavy filters to make your photos pop. A few small tweaks go a long way.
Free apps like Lightroom Mobile, Snapseed, or VSCO let you:
- Slightly increase brightness and contrast
- Warm up cool-toned photos (especially snowy or cloudy shots)
- Sharpen details without overdoing it
- Straighten horizons for cleaner compositions
A good rule of thumb: If it doesn’t look like real life anymore, dial it back.
Pack a Mini “Content Creator” Kit
You don’t need to pack that much, but a few small items could make a serious difference. A compact phone or tripod, a portable power bank, a clean microfiber cloth for your camera lens, and extra phone storage or cloud backup enabled. These are all light, practical, and easy to stash in a book bag.
Explore the World with AESU!
Are you ready to plan the adventure of a lifetime? AESU offers unique, thrilling travel programs for college students and young professionals at affordable rates. Each trip is action-packed and informal, designed just for people your age. We can also create custom trips tailored just for your group.
AESU travelers take some incredible photos every year—and we love seeing your perspective. Whether it’s a perfectly timed Santorini sunset or a candid group moment in Rome, your content inspires future travelers. AESU regularly collects traveler photos through contests and UGC submissions, so your phone photos could be featured or shared to inspire the next group of adventurers!
Experience an exhilarating adventure! New 2026 departure dates are now available at www.aesu.com/trips. Check out our most popular trips: the Cosmopolitan and the Great Escape trips! If you have any questions or want help booking your next adventure, please contact AESU by calling 800-638-7640 or filling out the contact form found on our website. Follow AESU on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.