Short photography programs

ICP x Spéos Summer Photography Program

  • Campus: Paris, France
  • Next session: June — July 2026

The ICP x Spéos Summer Photography Program in Paris is a unique international program developed in collaboration between the International Center of Photography (ICP, New York) and Spéos International Photography School (Paris). It is a summer photography course designed for students who want to study photography in Paris while developing their creative vision.

I apply! Campus visits
© Eva Morel

Presentation

For more than 50 years, ICP has been one of the world’s leading institutions dedicated to photography and visual culture. Through this collaboration with Spéos, students have the opportunity to experience the educational offerings of both institutions while studying photography in the creative capital of Paris.

Over two summer months, participants immerse themselves in the world of photography while living and creating in one of the most inspiring cities in the world. Combining technical training, creative exploration, and photographic practice in Paris, this program is designed for anyone who dreams of developing their photographic eye.

The program is co-taught by instructors from ICP and Spéos, offering students a truly international learning experience. For many participants, this summer program becomes the first step toward a deeper engagement with photography.

A Collaboration Between ICP and Spéos

Founded in 1974, the International Center of Photography (ICP) is one of the world’s most respected institutions dedicated to photography and visual culture. Based in New York, ICP is a dynamic center encompassing a museum, a school, and a global membership community.

Education is central to ICP’s mission. Having trained generations of photographers and visual storytellers, ICP collaborates with institutions such as Barnard College and supports educational initiatives in Italy, China, and India. In New York City, ICP’s museum presents high-profile exhibitions, stewards a significant permanent collection, and hosts the annual Infinity Awards, recognizing excellence in photography and visual storytelling.

The ICP x Spéos Summer Photography Program in Paris reflects ICP’s commitment to international photographic education and creative exchange.

Founded in 1985, Spéos International Photography School is a leading photography school based in Paris. Spéos offers professional photography programs combining technical excellence, creative development and real-world experience. Located in the heart of Paris, the school provides an ideal environment for learning photography.

The school is also part of a specialized ecosystem through its membership in a group that brings together: Maison Niépce, the museum dedicated to the invention of photography by Nicéphore Niépce; Quai de la Photo, a cultural venue devoted to contemporary photography located in Paris’s 13th arrondissement on the banks of the Seine; and Prophot-TRM, a leading provider of equipment and services for professional photographers. Together, these institutions help anchor Spéos’ programs in the contemporary realities of photography.

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An International Learning Experience

The ICP x Spéos Summer Photography Program reflects a shared commitment by both institutions to high-quality photographic education and international creative exchange.

The curriculum has been developed in consultation between ICP and Spéos to ensure that students benefit from the pedagogical approaches and professional expertise of both schools.

Classes are co-taught by instructors from ICP and Spéos, creating a dynamic learning environment where students benefit from multiple perspectives on contemporary photography. Instructors guide students throughout the program and support the development of both technical skills and artistic vision.

Participants join a diverse group of students from around the world, creating a dynamic and inspiring environment for exchange and collaboration.

Program Overview

Over eight weeks, participants acquire the technical and creative foundations of photography.
The program combines lectures, practical workshops, shooting assignments, and critiques.
Each week focuses on a specific theme, ensuring a structured and progressive learning experience.

> View the full schedule for the ICP x Spéos Summer Photography Program

This workshop uses the Stop-System method invented by Spéos to quickly master analogue techniques. It offers a tactile and sensory approach to photography, ideal for understanding the very substance of the image. 

Participants discover the magic of the darkroom and learn how to develop black-and-white film. Students are guided through every step: preparation, development, developer, fixer, and first prints.

This workshop introduces participants to the art of telling real-life stories through images. 
Students learn how to build a strong visual narrative: choosing a subject, understanding its context, immersing themselves in the field, capturing key moments, and giving meaning to a sequence. 

Guided by a professional photographer, participants discover reportage techniques, appropriate equipment, and the realities of the profession.

This workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to the essential techniques of studio photography. Participants learn how to handle professional equipment and master studio flash lighting. 

The use of large-format cameras and the Stop-System further enhances the experience, providing an in-depth understanding of the precision and rigor of studio work.

During this workshop, creating portraits allows participants to work on personal expression, striving to get as close as possible to their own sensitivity. 

Participants learn how to optimise shooting parameters — lighting, lenses, film, and camera —in order to maximise their artistic potential.

Each day offers a different creative challenge: photographing glass, metal, everyday objects, products, or exploring food styling.

Participants learn to compose precise, elegant, and balanced images by working with textures, materials, and lighting.

The use of digital view cameras enriches the technical approach and opens up new artistic possibilities.

This workshop invites participants to explore the city with their cameras in hand, following the footsteps of the great street photographers. 

Students discover various contemporary approaches and put what they have learned into practice through a range of exercises: capturing decisive moments, conveying the energy of a neighborhood, and taking candid portraits. 

Participants learn to manage natural light and make the most of every situation to create spontaneous, vibrant images.

This workshop aims to teach the basics of natural and consistent photo enhancement in a way that is accessible to everyone. 

Participants learn how to easily edit their digital photos using Lightroom. 

Students discover how to import, organize, and select their images, how to adjust exposure, color, and contrast for a balanced result.

This workshop helps participants assert their vision and give meaning to their images.
Participants learn to select, organize and sequence their photographs to tell a story: edit, rhythm, coherence, tone, and intention. An essential introduction to moving from “taking pictures” to “building a project”.

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Learn Photography in a Professional Environment

Classes take place at Spéos International Photography School in Paris, located in the 11th arrondissement near Bastille and République.

Students benefit from access to professional facilities including:

  • Studios: Spéos supplies the studio lighting equipment and the large format digital cameras.
  • Computer Rooms: Spéos is equipped with Apple Mac workstations and Eizo calibrated graphics monitors. Students can bring their own laptops, external hardware, USB keys or other devices to work on their photos.
  • Supplies: Photo supplies (papers, prints, backdrops…) – when used during class work – are provided by Spéos free of charge. Supplies used for personal work (such as portfolio and exhibition prints, website subscription fees or business cards) are at the students’ expense.

Equipment Requirements

Participants are expected to bring a digital camera (DSLR or hybrid mirrorless). 

Who Should Apply to this Summer Photography Workshop?

This summer program is designed for:

  • international students interested in studying photography in Paris
  • beginners who want to discover photography in a professional context
  • advanced amateurs wishing to refine their skills
  • artists exploring photography as a new medium

The program is also ideal for anyone who wants to test a potential career in photography before committing to a longer program.

I Apply!

Spend Your Summer Photographing Paris!

Live a creative experience, develop your photography skills and experience the city through your camera!

Paris has inspired generations of photographers. From historic neighborhoods and vibrant street life to iconic architecture and hidden corners of the city, Paris offers an extraordinary playground for photographic exploration.

During some workshops of the program, students photograph the city while developing their technical skills and personal visual style. Street photography sessions, creative assignments, and guided exploration of the city allow participants to experience photography in a real-world environment.

Admissions

As a partner in this program, the International Center of Photography (ICP), New York, brings its long-standing expertise in photographic education and visual culture. 

Applications for the ICP x Spéos Summer Photography Program are managed by Spéos International Photography School.

All candidates must therefore apply directly through the Spéos website and admissions process.

  • Seats are limited and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
  • Do not hesitate to contact Spéos if you have any questions about this program.
  • You are also welcome to visit the school at any time — simply make an appointment.
Apply now via Spéos!

FAQ

Taking a photography program in Paris during the summer means working in a one-of-a-kind visual environment: natural light, iconic architecture, and lively street scenes that are perfect for documentary and street photography. The ICP x Spéos program turns Paris itself into a classroom, helping you sharpen your photographic eye.

The ICP x Spéos program is an intensive 8-week photography course held in Paris, offered in partnership with the International Center of Photography in New York and Spéos.

This program is a great fit if you're looking for:

  • a summer introductory program,
  • an immersive photography course taught in English,
  • a curriculum that combines hands-on practice, theory, and personal projects.

Over the course of this program in Paris, you'll:

  • build a strong foundation in professional photography in just 8 weeks,
  • master the fundamentals of photographic technique,
  • learn documentary photography and visual storytelling,
  • work under professional conditions, both in the studio and on location.

It's an especially well-suited program for anyone starting out in photography.

Yes. This photography course in Paris is open to students with no prior experience.

You're welcome to enroll if you're looking for:

  • a beginner-friendly photography course in Paris,
  • a career change,
  • a first hands-on experience in photography.

The 8-week program is taught entirely in English.
This creates a multicultural learning environment similar to ICP's in New York.

Yes. You can take the program's workshops à la carte by choosing only the ones you're interested in.
To do this, take a look at the individual photography workshops in Paris.

No, no portfolio is required to enroll in the ICP x Spéos summer photography program.

This program is open to you if you're looking for:

  • a photography course with no prerequisites,
  • a beginner photography class in Paris.

We recommend bringing your own camera (DSLR or mirrorless).
That way you can shoot every day and make rapid progress over the course of the program.

Yes. Part of the program takes place outdoors.

You'll work on:

  • street photography in Paris (see the Week 6 workshop),
  • photojournalism and documentary photography (see the Week 2 workshop).

Yes, an ICP x Spéos certificate is awarded upon completion of the 8 weeks.

Yes. This program is an excellent first step for exploring a potential career in photography, with no long-term commitment.

In particular, it lets you:

  • put your interest in photography to a real-world test,
  • build solid technical and artistic foundations,
  • start developing your own eye and personal style.

It's an ideal program for confirming a passion, considering a career change, or finding out whether you want to take things further professionally in photography.

Practical information

ICP x Spéos Summer Photography Program

  • Next session: June — July 2026
  • Teaching language: English
  • Tuition fees:
    – Students from France and the EU: €3,500
    – International students: €4,500
  • Level: Beginner to intermediate
  • Schedule: 3-hour sessions, Monday to Friday, over 8 weeks
I apply! Open House Days

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