This is the first level of distinction and is open to all members. Non-members may also apply but will not be awarded a distinction unless they join the Society. The Licentiateship is awarded for competence in practical photography, or for recognition of success in particular photography examinations (see exemptions below).

The evidence required is:

●   for still photography, 10 prints, 10 slides or 10 images on CD-ROM;

●   for audio visual or photo harmony, one or more sequences of not less than 10 minutes total duration;

●   for film and video, 10 minutes of film or video; or

●   for research, education and application of photography, a dissertation of approximately 5000 words.

For still photography, ten prints conforming to size requirements must be submitted as a portfolio. They may be exclusively of black-and-white or colour images, or a combination of the two. They should be displayed as a cohesive panel, normally in two rows. The layout of the portfolio must be submitted with the images. Prints should be numbered clearly on the back to indicate the order in which they should be displayed. Presentation and mounting should be sympathetic to the subject matter. Commercially processed material is acceptable. Prints and slides cannot be mixed.

Slide submissions are generally in the 35mm format, but larger sizes are accepted. Slides are viewed as a sequentially one at a time. Each one must be numbered to indicate its place in the sequence, and spotted for correct viewing (bottom left corner when viewed normally).

Digital images on CD are viewed in sequence by projection onto a white screen in a darkened room. Applicants should calibrate their monitors to ensure that a graduated grey scale is completely visible. Images with defects caused, for example, by over-sharpening or over-compression will not be acceptable.

Exemptions are:

●   A-level photography, grade A or B;

●   City & Guilds 6924 (not 6923), 5 modules with a minimum of 4 credits and 1 distinction;

●   City & Guilds Senior Award - Licentiateship;

●   BTEC ND in photography;

●   Open College of the Arts - 2 awards required, at least one of which should be level 2 or above;

●   BTEC HNC in photography;

●   a BIPP licentiateship;

●   an MPA licentiateship; or

●   NCFE level 3 in art and design (photography).

Further details are available from the website of the RPS at http://www.rps.org/. Examples of successful LRPS panels submitted by OPS members may be seen in the distinctions gallery.