Top photographers and rising talent unite for one of the UK’s largest photography shows, Photo North Festival in Leeds.

Student developer Alumno, in collaboration with the national photographic organisation Photo North, is launching The Photo North Festival from Friday, April 11th to Sunday, April 13th, 2025, at The Carriageworks in Millennium Square, Leeds.

The Photo North Festival will showcase works from renowned photographers, featuring talks, screenings, and book signings throughout the long weekend. The festival was founded by photographic curators Peter Dench and Sharon Price, who established the non-profit national organisation to celebrate photography across the UK.

Alumno, who specialise in developing student accommodation, are passionate supporters of the arts, with a strong focus on emerging photography talent. In addition to the festival, they play an active role in backing the young photography competition, which is a key feature of the three-day event.

The festival is also supported by members of Channel 4’s Senior pictures team, who will be delving onto the archives to present a number of unseen photographs from iconic films such as Trainspotting.

Other highlights include ‘How Do you Dance in a War Zone’ (Paul Miller, Maria Falconer), featuring photography about Ukrainian dancers finding a way to dance amid conflict.

‘The North Revisited’ showing evocative images of the photojournalist, John Bulmer’s work in the 1860’s and 70’s. ‘Young Men, Worst Fears ‘from Jillian Edelstein, a portrait project developed when mentoring underprivileged youth at North London's Arsenal Football Club.

Finally, 1960s Rock Legends by Paul Berriff will be featured, showcasing his iconic black-and-white photographs of legendary musicians. Berriff's work, which has been exhibited and collected worldwide, includes famous shots of Mick Jagger and The Beatles.

Co-Curator of the event and photo journalist, Peter Dench said: “Photo North Festival are delighted to bring an inclusive, thought-provoking event to Leeds. Pop-up exhibitions and events that champion photography are designed to support and stimulate interest within the community.”

David Campbell, Alumno Managing Director and principal sponsor commented: "David Campbell, Managing Director of Alumno and principal sponsor, said: “At Alumno, we’re deeply committed to nurturing young talent in the cities and communities where we develop. The Photo North Festival provides a rare chance for emerging photographers to gain recognition and open doors to a career in photography."