Photography Student Captures Powerful Stories from Global Humanitarian Efforts

Isabelle Law, a 27-year-old photography student from the Isle of Skye, is using her camera to tell compelling stories of people and places around the world. Inspired by her father, a photographer focused on rural communities in the Himalayas, Isabelle’s passion for photography grew alongside her curiosity about diverse cultures and experiences.

Now studying for her degree in photography at the College, Isabelle describes the experience as transformative. "It’s been such a learning experience," she shares. "I feel like I’m really carving a path in my photography journey." Her tutors have been instrumental in her development, with one lecturer commenting, "Isabelle is a student with boundless energy; she brings an immense degree of curiosity to every class. Her questioning mind has seen her creative practice develop in hugely interesting and dynamic ways."

Isabelle’s work goes beyond the classroom, as she is particularly drawn to capturing the stories of people from diverse cultures. This passion led her to reach out to several non-governmental organisations (NGOs), including The HALO Trust, an organisation dedicated to clearing landmines in areas affected by conflict. Isabelle was thrilled to secure an opportunity to document HALO’s work in Sri Lanka, where they have been active since 2002.

For Isabelle, the experience of documenting HALO’s efforts in Sri Lanka was eye-opening. Coming from a remote village with fewer than twenty residents, she found the bustling and humid northern province of Sri Lanka a world apart from the Isle of Skye. Yet, she also found unexpected similarities in the landscapes, the warmth of the people, and even the rain – though it came in tropical downpours rather than Scottish drizzles.

One aspect of HALO’s work that resonated with Isabelle was the teamwork involved. "They described their operation like a bike wheel," she explains. "Each department is a spoke, and they all need each other to keep things running smoothly." This spirit of collaboration is central to her project, Absence of Noise, which captures the landscapes of mine-contaminated areas. The haunting beauty of red sticks marking uncleared land speaks volumes, even in the absence of people in the frame.

This experience has solidified Isabelle’s passion for documentary photography and photojournalism. "It was such an incredible experience," she reflects. "I hope this is just the beginning of working with more NGOs to raise awareness of the important work they do."

To explore Isabelle’s work, visit her website at Isabelle Law Photography or follow her on Instagram at @isabellelawphotography.