How to Capture the Best Group Photos with Friends in Florence

This blog was written by a student intern on one of CIEE's high school summer abroad programs in 2025. 

Photos are hands down, the best souvenir. They’re free, they don’t take up space in your bag, and they last forever! There is nothing I cherish more than the photos I have taken when travelling, especially when I am with friends. Over the last year, I have been able to travel all over Italy and Europe while studying and Interning with CIEE, and I love going back and scrolling back in time through my collection of photos (which, if we’re being honest, is probably a little too big… my iPhone is out of storage). They remind me of the people I have met, the amazing things I have gotten to see and do, and so many funny little moments. When it comes to photos, you can't overdo it. 

As my collection has grown, I’ve picked up a few tricks to capture the best group photos while travelling: 

Tip 1: Choose your camera

There are so many options when it comes to the tool you use to capture moments with friends, and the choice is completely up to you! If you want to keep it simple and convenient, feel free to stick to your smartphone camera! If you like a more aged and timeless look to your photos, consider bringing along a vintage digital camera—I got mine on Facebook marketplace, a film camera, or even a disposable camera! 

Tip 2: Find a fun location 

Here in Florence, there are so many breathtaking photo locations. Head to Piazzale Michelangelo for photos with a breathtaking sunset and Florence’s iconic city skyline in the background. For pictures with the river in the background, make a stop on the middle of Ponte Vecchio, or Ponte Santa Trinita if you want Ponte Vecchio in the back. Some of my favorite photos during High School Summer Abroad have been taken in our very own backyard at the Casale dei Cento Acri. 

Tip 3: Never underestimate the power of lighting 

Don’t forget to consider lighting if you want good photos! This small detail can make or break your shot. Facing into the light will keep your photos from being backlit. Golden hour is unbeatable in Florence! Taking pictures either just after sunrise, or just before sunset will give everyone that sun kissed, golden-hued glow. 

Tip 4: Get creative! Mix it up with candids, selfies, and 0.5 photos

Have fun with it! You can either create a staged photo to get everyone’s good side, or take candid photos to capture spontaneous, authentic moments. Try taking a mix of both and see what you like the best! Selfies and 0.5 photos are also great ways to get quick snapshots with your friends no matter where you are.       

Tip 5: Gather your friends!

The simplest but most important step in taking good group photos—getting the group together! When having fun in Florence, or exploring any city for that matter, it’s surprisingly easy to forget to take group photos. Having a designated photographer to get everyone together for a picture once in a while will ensure you don’t leave the trip empty-handed.

Other tips!

For some, being in front of the camera comes naturally! Others (like me), feel most at home behind the camera capturing moments for others. At the end of the day, taking photos is just a fun way to capture memories, and they’ll come out best if they are genuine and personal. Just smile, relax, have fun with it, and be yourself! Even if you're camera shy, make sure to come out from behind the lens once in a while. I promise you’ll be happy you did.

The summer's Session II Global Navigators have been taking amazing photos together with their phones and digital cameras as they explore the city and when hanging out with their Italian peers! This post's gallery features photos taken by them and myself.

Interested in trying your hand at these excellent photography tips in our Summer 2026 cohort of Global Navigators? Explore our high school summer abroad programs and consider applying today!