Perfecting the Abroad Photo Dump

Let’s face it: if you’re studying abroad this semester, you likely have way more photos than you know what to do with. From aesthetic pics of vintage markets to a hundred different angles of the same baguette, your camera roll has never been as full as it is — or will be — in this three-month global era of your life.

You probably even made your very own abroad Instagram account that’s filled with candids and coffee pics. But how do you know which pics are worthy of the main Insta photo dump? After some intense influencer research and collective inspection of our personal experiences abroad, we at The Edge have discovered a foolproof formula for elevating your Instagram: The Sweet Six. We’ve determined that six is the ideal length of a photo dump — just check out Olivia Rodrigo’s London post or Emma Chamberlain’s casual dump from when she was in Bath, England. Keep reading below to find out how to turn your feed into your very own aesthetic photo album. We’ve got you covered, love.

Photo One: The Picture of You

Start off your album strong with a stylish picture of yourself. This could be a photo of you in front of a skyline, a famous landmark, at brunch or really anywhere as long as you feel confident and are exuding those world-traveler vibes.

Photo Two: The Scenery Pic

Show off the city that is your new home! If you’re in London, this is the perfect opportunity to include that signature Big Ben or Tower Bridge pic.

Photo Three: Phone Eats First

This is the spot for the quintessential food pic. Pick the best baguette photo you have and give it a spotlight, or maybe highlight the most aesthetically-pleasing meal you’ve had yet.

Photo Four: The Friends Pic

The friends pic has some flexibility. This could be you with friends, a candid you took of them or even a blurred Pinterest-style photo. Show off the people who are making your journey a special one.

Photo Five: The aesthetic pic

While all the photos you’re including are likely very aesthetically pleasing, this pic solely showcases “the vibes.” It could really be anything as long as it compliments your other photos. Maybe it's a vintage market or some more scenery. It could also be a blurry photo of a night out or a sign or mural you came across while wandering about.

Photo Six: The Personality Pic/Selfie

This concept is the one you can play with. You have a free license to lean into the *cringe* with this one. The personality pic could be of you or a friend, maybe even of a fun stranger you met. Perhaps there is a little video you took or a BeReal that was just too good not to share again. This is the slot for all those little quirks.

Feel free to mix up the order as your adventures continue for some flare.

If you’re abroad right now and take any of our posting suggestions, let us know @theedgemag.