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Remember to register for the Annual General Meeting of the Royal Photographic Society

Licentiate Criteria

The following criteria apply to all ten photographs in your submission.

Understanding the criteria

Before applying for your Licentiate, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the criteria. The information provided below is essential for your preparation, including a comprehensive 32-page guideline document that outlines the three-part criteria in detail. Please read this document carefully so you can fully understand what the requirements are to be successful in gaining a Licentiate.  

Technical: Camerawork

You must show appropriate:

point of focus and depth of field.

choice of ISO, shutter speed and aperture.

sharpness in relation to the subject matter.

level of exposure with control of highlight/shadow detail and tonal range.

colour rendition if applicable.

use of manipulation or post‐production techniques, if applicable.

 




 

Artistic: Visual Awareness

You must show a good understanding of:

how to use light in photography
(natural or artificial).

composition and design.

viewpoints and an awareness of distracting backgrounds.

the use of colour or monochrome in relation to the image.

decisive moment, if applicable.

 

 



 

Communication: Visual Narrative and Presentation

Visual Narrative

You must show:

clarity of intent.

evidence of imagination and creativity to convey a mood, message, or idea.

understanding and empathy with the subject matter, if applicable. 

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Presentation

You must show:

a balanced and cohesive presentation.

a diverse range of approaches, skills, and techniques.

front cover of the 2024 Licentiate Criteria & Guidance document
Image Credit: Amin Zamzam LRPS

Licentiate Criteria & Guidance 2024

A 32 page document detailing the individual criteria and providing further guidance

Last updated: 07 August 2024