In a qualitative study, photo narratives from eight students covering eighty total photos were collected and analyzed to understand the existing student experience across eight short-term study abroad programs from three different institutions in Texas. Photos and their connected narrative interviews were examined for compositional focus, statements connected to intercultural growth, and whether photos were related to planned program activities. Given the growing visual libraries of students, this research provides an initial look at ways digital media already exists in study abroad. Moving forward, photo narratives offer the potential for education abroad leaders to embrace digital media while enhancing intercultural learning through structured assessments rooted in visual theory and photoethnography to better prepare and reveal students' stories, learning, and intent.