FESTIVAL #7
13 - 15th March 2026
The Carriageworks, Leeds
Hello & Welcome
In 2018, we set out to create a vibrant, welcoming three-day photography festival, a place where visitors leave nourished, inspired and eager to return.
PHOTO NORTH celebrates documentary photography and film that tell real stories, challenge perspectives, and spark conversation. We champion underrepresented voices and explore pressing social issues. While rooted in documentary practice, the festival also makes space for work that celebrates creativity, culture and pop culture, embracing everything from serious social commentary to lighter, more playful perspectives.
What began as a passion project has grown into something more. We’re proud of how far the festival has come and even more excited about where it’s heading.
The festival runs from Friday to Sunday and opens with Education Day. Students and young or emerging artists are offered free portfolio reviews and career advice, but the day is open to anyone keen to learn, connect, and feel encouraged.
Together with our artists, audiences, partners and participants, we are building a thriving community around a truly must-see photography event.
We welcome your ideas and suggestions, and look forward to seeing you again.
Pete and Sharonn
mark Dane,
non-photographer
“I’m not a photographer or have even been 'into' photography, but I thought Photo North Festival was fantastic. The venue, the talks, the people, it was all inspiring. I realised you don’t need to be a photographer to appreciate the powerful stories behind the images. Some were nostalgic, some gritty and thought-provoking, but all of them left an impression. Life itself is like a photograph, it’s just usually captured by the mind. At Photo North, you see those moments brought to life, and it’s mesmerising.”
Geri Halliwell by Soulla Petrou
artists
AND! For 2026 we’re excited to colLab with Leeds International African Arts Festival!
leeds international african arts festival
For 2026 we’re excited to colLab with Leeds International African Arts Festival DETAILS
talks, screenings, Q&A's
Throughout the festival 3 days, Photo North festival hosts a variety of talks, screenings & Q&A's.the format is relaxed, informal and fun!
live lounge
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live lounge 〰️
Live Lounge
Our live lounge has a ‘buzzy’ market street feel feel. organisations & Indies from the fields of art & photography will be on hand to offer career advice & portfolio reviews.
All within the lively food and licensed bar area, mingle amongst the BOOK, PRINT & ZINE SELLERS or just relax with friends and make new ones.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Here are a few of our fun community engagement initiatives, it doesn’t matter what level of artist or photographer you are, if at all!
Join in one of them, or join in all of them!
