Empowering Young Creatives: The King’s Trust ‘Get Started in Photography’ Course at Niltoni Studios

In late September, Niltoni Education, part of the Niltoni Group, proudly hosted the ‘Get Started in Photography’course in partnership with The King’s Trust (Newcastle) — a week-long creative journey designed to help young people aged 16–30 gain hands-on experience, confidence, and a real insight into the world of professional photography.

Led by acclaimed photographer Chris Davis (chrisdavisstudio.com), the course introduced students to a variety of photographic techniques, from portraiture and landscape to product and event photography. Participants learned to edit their work using Snapseed, a free and accessible mobile editing app — proof that creativity doesn’t depend on expensive software, but on vision, experimentation, and passion.

Collaboration and Industry Support

This unique programme was made possible through the generous collaboration of several key partners who share Niltoni’s vision for accessible creative education:

Nikon UK provided over £50,000 worth of professional camera and lens equipment, ensuring every student could experience working with industry-standard tools. Nikon also arranged a special session with their Creative Ambassador, Lucy Hamidzadeh, who shared her journey as a professional photographer and inspired the group to tell stories through their images.

Epson UK supported the final exhibition by providing a professional printer, allowing students to produce high-quality prints of their work for display.

And in true North East style, Redheads Mac ‘n’ Cheese, the UK’s No.1 mac and cheese brand, sponsored the showcase event — supplying lunch in the week and even becoming the subject of a commercial-style shoot, giving students a taste of real-world product photography. TTM Management kindly supported the programme throughout the week by providing professional models for portrait and fashion-based shoots, helping participants gain experience working with live subjects and creative teams in a professional studio setting.

Dionne Scougul provided invaluable support to course leader Chris Davis throughout the week — modelling, assisting with shoots, and offering general production support that helped ensure the programme ran smoothly and professionally.

Guest photographers Shina Collins and Filipe Neves Ribeiro (PipeEye), Niltoni Studios’ Co-Director, also led sessions in documentary photography, visual storytelling, and creative direction, providing insight into their own professional practices.

The Exhibition: A Celebration of Talent and Teamwork

The week culminated in a vibrant exhibition at Niltoni Studios, transforming the space into a gallery filled with striking images captured and edited by the students themselves. Friends, family, and industry professionals attended the showcase, which marked not just the end of a course, but the beginning of many creative journeys.

“Working with Niltoni has been a transformative experience for the young people supported by The King’s Trust,” said David Watson, Delivery Manager for The King’s Trust. “Participants not only gained valuable creative and technical skills, but also grew in confidence and self-belief. Niltoni’s hands-on approach and inspiring mentorship have helped unlock potential and open doors to new opportunities.”

Maja Zwolinska, Junior Education Manager at Nikon Europe, added: “We are honoured to be an educational partner for the King’s Trust ‘Get Started in Photography’ Course. This collaboration represents our ongoing commitment to nurturing young talent and supporting the next generation of creative minds.”

Reflecting on the success of the course, Craig Wilde, Director of the Niltoni Group, said:

“Our aim was to create a learning experience that didn’t just teach technical skills but inspired these amazing young people to believe in themselves and their creativity. Thanks to our incredible partners, this programme exceeded all expectations — the quality of work in the final exhibition was truly outstanding.”

Looking Ahead

Following the success of this programme, Niltoni Education and The King’s Trust plan to expand the initiative in 2026 with follow-on courses designed to deepen participants’ skills and industry connections. Upcoming creative pathways include Art & Graphic Design and Fashion, continuing Niltoni’s mission to empower and employ the next generation of Northeast creatives. Photography Students who's work as featured in the Exhibition: Ben Richardson Codie Lawson Douglas Hayward Ellen Sharples Ina Thomas Jennie Vickers Killian JeanMarie Oliver Duffas Soumia Touissi Steven Wilson