A Hidden Community

Jennifer made history last year as the first woman to win Scotland’s most prestigious portrait photography prize - the MPB Scottish Portrait Award Winner (Colour) 2024.

The winning photograph of a swimmer named John is one of a series from Jennifer’s BA Hons degree portfolio, titled ‘A Hidden Community.’

In this ongoing project Jennifer explores a hidden community, where mental health doesn’t discriminate. Jennifer's portraits are full of compassion and these, with the accompanying stories, show how a lonely and insular existence can be gently transformed to one of self-acceptance and wellbeing. Each portrait is taken in the person’s self-professed “happy place” – it was important to Jennifer to capture the exact place - a field or beach - at their favourite time day, to ensure their portrait was honest and full of integrity.

Jennifer's hope is that there will eventually be an end to the stigma of mental health issues " when brave sufferers step forward enabling transparency and the growth of a beautiful community where judgement does not exist, only support and compassion".

The Stirling Photography Festival is delighted to be exhibiting Jennifer's complete collection as part of this year's Beyond festival programme. Jennifer's exhibition is generously hosted by The Barracks Conference Centre and sponsored by The Robertson Trust, who aim to support solutions that drive social change.

About Jennifer Charlton

Jennifer graduated from Robert Gordon University/ Edinburgh College with a BA in Professional Photography in 2023 and went on to be awarded a first-class honours degree through Kingston University and Edinburgh College in 2024. In September that year she made history, becoming the first female and first digital photographer to win the Scottish Portrait Award (Colour) with a portrait of John from her project ‘A Hidden Community’. This project was also placed in the finals of the prestigious AOP student awards and runner up at the Photo North Student Photography awards.

Further recognition came from Edinburgh College, when the single mum of three was presented with an “Outstanding Achievement in Photography” award at her graduation. In July 2025 Jennifer was very honoured to have been awarded Associate of The Royal Photographic Society (ARPS).

The Venue

The Barracks Conference Centre is open for exhibition viewing

Monday to Thursday, 0900 - 1600hrs.  Fridays 0900 - 1200 noon

Please call ahead to ensure the exhibition is open to view, as occasionally conference events are private and the venue may be closed to the public.  Tel:01786 641 800