HELLO
My name is Alan Compton. In 2015, I experienced a profound loss that shifted the course of my career. Having spent many years working in the film and television industry, I began to question the value of the work I was doing. I wanted to create something meaningful, something that would honor the memory of a loved one who had passed away. Around that time, I came across a chapter in a biography of a New York Times photojournalist. It spoke about the power of images and storytelling to influence not just people but entire systems—how a well-told story could provoke change at a societal level. That moment redirected my career towards using my creative skills to produce work that has a tangible, positive impact.
My work has been recognized internationally. I was honored to be named Portrait Photographer of the Year by the Paris Photo Prize for my work with the Africa Advocacy Foundation and received a SABRE Award for my contributions to the European healthcare initiative Nobody Left Outside.
AWARDS
2019 - STATE OF THE WORLD, PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR
2019 - STATE OF THE WORLD, PX3 PRIX DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE. GOLD WINNER
2020 - STATE OF THE WORLD, PX3 PRIX DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE. BRONZE WINNER
2020 - BEST USE OF PHOTOGRAPHY IN A CAMPAIGN. EMEA SABRE AWARD
2024 - STATE OF THE WORLD, PX3 PRIX DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE. GOLD WINNER
I collaborate with social impact organizations worldwide, crafting award-winning storytelling and communications tools that make a difference. I believe that storytelling lies at the heart of effective communications for non-profits. Authentic narratives aren’t just about telling a story—they are about creating versatile tools that amplify a mission, engage diverse audiences, strengthen community connections, and drive awareness, support, and fundraising efforts. When an organization invests in powerful storytelling, it can address a broad range of communication needs with one cohesive and impactful approach.
“Al was introduced to us in 2017 and we have turned to him for every project since then. He is generous, humble and beyond talented. He makes our community feel seen.”
DENIS ONYANGO | AFRICA ADVOCACY FOUNDATION
“I believe Al Compton to be a rare talent whose work perfectly and uniquely serves the very specific needs of non-profits.”
B I L L T O L I V E R | THE MATALE LINE
“We vetted world-class photographers and filmmakers before deciding Alan Compton was the superior choice because of his track record and dedication to working with traumatised groups.”
DR. KATHLEEN DORCY | SCCA, AMERICAN ACADEMY OF NURSING
“The clarity with which Alan gets to the essence of things is incredible. The impact he has had on our organisation and community go far beyond his immense creative skills.”
MEENAKSHI GUPTA |. GOONJ CO-FOUNDER
RECENT CLIENTS
TESTIMONIALS
Every project is a collaboration, and each presents its own set of challenges. I’ve worked across the globe on diverse narratives, from documenting child slavery in Vietnam and healthcare initiatives in Indonesia to producing campaigns for cancer care in Seattle and HIV awareness in London. Each of these projects has shaped the way I approach my work, evolving my skills as a storyteller and teaching me to listen deeply and connect authentically.
This website is not just a portfolio; it's a statement of intent. It reflects my commitment to partnering with organizations that seek meaningful change and want to communicate their missions in powerful, human-centered ways. If you'd like to discuss how we can work together, I’d be happy to start a conversation.
Thank you for taking the time to visit.
Alan Compton
My role varies from project to project, depending on the needs of each client. Whether I’m working as a creative director, photographer, filmmaker, designer, or mentor, I adapt my skills to highlight the unique voices within each community. I also design and lead user-generated content programs, teaching storytelling techniques to both non-profit teams and the communities they serve.
