Illuminating lives through a lense

Salford’s NQL Night School – Inspiring Creativity, Connection, and Confidence

In October, local artist Simon Buckley launched the Not Quite Light (NQL) Night School from his studio at Islington Mill, Salford. The initiative offered two six-week courses: Learn Urban Night Photography and Take Better Photos. With Muse subsidising 25% of the course places, the goal was to make photography accessible to all, particularly those for whom cost may have been a barrier. Following the successful completion of the first courses, the impact of this innovative programme has been profound.

The courses drew a mix of participants from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared interest in photography. For some, it was a chance to refine technical skills; for others, it became a source of mindfulness and personal growth. What unfolded during the NQL Night School was far more than a technical learning experience – it was an exploration of creativity, community, and self-expression.

The Participants’ Perspective

Charlotte, a music producer in her 40s, discovered the course through a Lowry newsletter and initially signed up to develop her technical skills. Having used a camera casually for years, she wanted to elevate her approach to photography. After recovering from a prolonged illness, the course also offered an opportunity to reconnect with her creative side.

“Simon is incredibly relaxed and approachable, with no pretension,” Charlotte shared. “He explained technical concepts in an accessible way and made sure every question was answered.”

Beyond the technical knowledge, Charlotte appreciated the camaraderie and connection with her fellow participants. “One thing I’ve realised post-COVID is how much I value face-to-face interactions. Being part of a group, sharing ideas, and learning together was a really positive experience. The course even encouraged me to see Salford’s architecture in a new light – literally – just as the clocks changed and the city transformed under the autumn night sky.”

By the end of the course, Charlotte felt proud of her newfound skills. “I’m no longer just clicking and hoping. I now understand how to achieve the images I want, combining my instinct with technique. That’s incredibly satisfying.”

Sally, a mental health worker also in her 40s, expressed gratitude for Muse’s subsidy, which made the course accessible during a challenging period of unemployment. A longtime photography enthusiast, she had often had to navigate her own challenges with confidence, anxiety, and dyscalculia, which made understanding technical concepts difficult.

“The NQL Night School has been a game-changer,” she explained. “Simon’s patient guidance has helped me not only understand the fundamentals of photography but also feel empowered to make artistic choices rather than relying on happy accidents. It’s given me a sense of purpose and mindfulness during a tough time.”

Sally specifically highlighted the importance of photography in her own mental health journey, noting how focusing on capturing images allowed her to block out the noise of everyday life. “The practice sessions in between classes reminded me of how calming and mindful photography can be. It’s been a gift to rediscover that.”

A Muse Reflection

Committed to community engagement we are delighted with the program’s success. Supporting initiatives like the NQL Night School aligns perfectly with our ethos. Salford is a city brimming with creativity and passion, and we’re thrilled to have played a part in helping participants connect with those elements of the place they live, others in their community, and themselves.

What’s Next for NQL Night School?

As the students reflect on their creations, it’s clear that the NQL Night School has already left a lasting legacy – not just in photographs, but in lives touched, confidence built, and connections made.

With more courses set to launch in January, Simon hopes to continue inspiring new photographers. “Photography isn’t just about capturing an image – it’s a way of seeing the world, connecting with it, and finding peace. If I’ve helped others experience that, then I’ve achieved my goal.”

For Salford and beyond, the NQL Night School is proof that creativity can illuminate even the darkest corners.