About

Laura Riis (b. 2002, Denmark) is a documentary photographer exploring youthhood, religion, and identity, in societies dealing with transformation within, and beyond the boundaries of tradition. Her work traces the emotional and cultural landscapes of individuals navigating change, often at the margins of mainstream society.

She began her career photographing indigenous communities in Latin America and Pakistan before participating in the Magnum Photo x Speos masterclass 2024. With a background in cultural studies and a childhood influenced by her time in India, Laura brings a deeply personal curiosity to how people shape their sense of self, faith, and belonging across cultures.

Working through long-term projects, she uses portraiture and environmental photography to create intimate visual dialogues between past and present. Her latest work explores religious conversion among Kalash youth in Northwest Pakistan, a subject she continues to follow over time.

CV

Awards/exhibition:

  • Group exhibition with Magnum Photo 2025

  • Shortlisted for Prix Révélation SAIF x La Kabine 2025.

  • Winner of Arkitekt Fr. Borup og Families Legat 2024

  • Solo exhibition at LAGO in Copenhagen 2024

  • Photo Faire at Christiania Christmas market 2022 and 2023

Education:

  • Master in photojournalism with Magnum Photo and Spéos 2024 - 2025

  • Bachelor's Business International Culture

Public engagement:

  • Speech holder with Duckling 2025

  • Panelist at WAN-IFRA Copenhagen 2024

  • Presenting Pakistan project on TV2 live 2024

  • Panelist at TV2 discussing current state of journalism