Who we are

Northern Music Photography Spotlight is a brand new music photography competition born out of love for the communities that capture the memorable moments of the Northern music scene.

We are currently living in a time when grassroots music venues across Northern England, and the UK as a whole, are facing increasing pressure from closures to cuts in public funding. Our aim at NMPS is to create opportunity where it’s most needed.

We want to celebrate photographers from all backgrounds, bring people together in an industry which thrives on community all while emphasising the importance of supporting the grassroots venues and artists that keep the North’s music culture alive.
We believe photography is one of the most powerful tools to preserve stories and culture, especially in the North, where music is such a massive part of many people’s lives.

This year’s competition opening date is 12th November 2025. The awards will be showcasing seven distinct categories which all individually play a huge role in Northern music.

To round things off, we’ll be hosting a public exhibition next year in Merseyside, inviting visitors to come and celebrate the photographers who’ve dedicated themselves to capturing the heart of the Northern music scene.