Emmanuel Santos

Photographer | Humanist | Cultural Documentarian

Emmanuel Santos is a globally respected photographer whose work spans continents, cultures, and decades. Formerly a photographer for the United Nations, Emmanuel migrated to Australia in the early 1980s and has since devoted his career to capturing the sacred, the personal, and the universal.

Best known for his lifelong photographic project on the Jewish Diaspora, his images are held in major museum collections around the world. His practice was also featured in the acclaimed SBS series Language of Light, spotlighting his poetic approach to storytelling through the lens.

In 2025, Emmanuel steps further into the cinematic space as Creative Director, Stills Photographer, and Actor in First Light, premiering at the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) on August 7. A true triple threat, his creative energy continues to expand across mediums.

As a mentor, Emmanuel offers emerging talent the rare chance to learn from a master observer — someone who sees beyond the frame, honours the story, and lives the art.