Qualifications

To become a Licentiate of The Society, applicants must show variety in approach and techniques but not necessarily in subject matter. Demanding but achievable for most dedicated photographers.

Requires a body of work/project of a high standard and a written Statement of Intent. Strong technical ability using techniques and photographic practices appropriate to the subject.

Our highest level of Distinction. Requires a distinctive and cohesive body of work/project accompanied by a written Statement of Intent. 

Applicants have for a long time been able to use a book as a means of presentation, but in this genre the photography led photobook is the genre itself.

All elements will be considered that make up your photobook submission, from the images to the colour of the text. What form of photobook you present is under your creative control.

These Distinctions recognize achievement in film production from key competencies at Licentiate level, advanced conceptual and technical skills at Associate level and at Fellowship level excellence in, and equating to, the highest industry, professional and artistic standards. Areas of film production covered will range from concept through cinematography, post-production and presentation. 

Screenshot: © Noel McIntyre ARPS

You submit written rather than photographic work for the Research genre. This category encompasses research in the arts & sciences of photography. 

It also looks at how photography is considered, how its history is recorded and preserved, how photography is taught and how it is understood in its own terms and as part of wider visual and artistic culture.

RPS Imaging Scientist vocational qualifications are open for application from those who have professional careers within the fields of engineering, science and technology. 

RPS Creative Industries qualifications are suitable for those working in the media including picture editors, art directors, curators, and designers as well as those within elements of education.