Royal Photographic Society Distinctions

The Royal Photographic Society (RPS), founded in 1853, is the most prestigious of the world's international photographic societies. Over a long period of time it has gained recognition for its promotion and maintenance of high photographic standards. The Society has also established itself worldwide through its special interest groups, touring exhibitions and programme of events. Membership of the RPS is open to all amateur and professional photographers worldwide.

Distinctions awarded by the RPS are recognised as the gold standard of achievement throughout the photographic world, and are fundamental to the promotion of excellence for which the organisation is universally respected. They are awarded for a portfolio of photographic images, for research, or for successful completion of a recognised course. Each application is assessed by an expert panel appointed for a particular discipline or category of work.

Photographers working towards a distinction are brought into contact with people having greater knowledge and experience. Applicants must be willing to listen with an open mind, accept constructive criticism, recognise their own strengths and weaknesses, and work on areas where improvement is needed. This not only enhances photographic skills but also encourages the communication and interaction that is a key part of the learning process.

The three levels of distinction are:

●   the Licentiateship (LRPS), which is the normal entry level awarded for a good level of basic skill and competence;

●   the Associateship (ARPS), which is awarded for a high standard of technical competence and individual creative ability; and

●   the Fellowship (FRPS), which is awarded for distinguished ability and exceptional standards of excellence.

The award of a distinction entitles the holder to use the letters LRPS, ARPS or FRPS after their name. Applications for distinctions are made in one of the following disciplines:

●   still photography;

●   audio visual (AV) sequences;

●   film and video;

●   research, education and application of photography; and

●   science (awarded as appropriate with the Imaging Scientist Qualifications, which are specifically aimed at engineers, scientists and technologists. They provide vocational qualifications relevant to a professional ●   career in imaging science).

In the case of still photography, associateship and fellowship applications are assessed in the following sub-categories:

●   applied and professional (this includes portraiture, and architectural, illustrative, theatrical and wedding photography);

●   contemporary;

●   documentary and visual journalism;

●   nature;

●   printing;

●   travel; and

●   visual art.

Before applying for a distinction, applicants should seek guidance regarding the standard of work required. Details of the evidence required, exemptions and the practical process of making submissions can be found in Distinctions and Qualifications Criteria, a booklet published by the RPS which is also available as a download. It is possible to see successful work, observe an assessment or obtain advice by:

●   attending licentiateship and associateship panel meetings as an observer. These are open to members and non-members, and details of dates, locations an tickets are published on the Society's website and in the RPS Journal;

●   attending advisory sessions, or workshops, organised at various locations around the country and led by members of the distinction panels.  Successful work is shown, and comments are made on the work displayed by potential applicants on the day;

●   studying examples of successful applications published on the website and periodically in the RPS Journal; and

●   attending regional or group meetings where successful portfolios are occasionally shown. Details can be found in the programmes of events published on the web site, in regional and group newsletters, and in the RPS Journal.