ALBINO BROTHERS

Ghana, 2017—2018

Meet Richmond and Bright, two brothers with albinism in a small Ghanaian town. This recessive condition drastically reduces melanin, bringing vision loss, skin cancer risks, and relentless sun exposure. Beyond these, they face discrimination, family abandonment, and isolation. Ghanaians with albinism often lack resources and community, seen as omens of bad luck or trafficked for superstitious "fortune" from their body parts.

Yet hope shines through. Photographer Anne Barlinckhoff captures profound love, through kindness, humility, and unexpected gestures. She turns stigma into connection, staging a community photoshoot that surrounds the brothers with acceptance, affirming their beauty and belonging. Difference becomes their bond.

On her return visit, the family's joy enveloped her; handing over printed photos from the shoot, their younger brother—without albinism—kissed them tenderly. "What a blessing," Anne reflects, "the most beautiful compliment. Home is where you're loved, no matter your skin color."