Photoredox-mediated C-H bond alkylation of 6-aryl-2,2'-bipyridines with N-(acyloxy)phthalimides is reported. The reaction exhibits excellent functional group tolerance, including chiral aliphatic groups. The influence of the incorporated C6'-alkyl group on the photophysical properties of the corresponding (N^N^C) cyclometalated Pt(ii) complexes is described, including chiroptical properties.