The Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain (RPS)

The RPS is recognised throughout the world as one of the leading photographic organisations. It was established in 1853 and holds one of the most important collections of historic photographs dating from 1827. The collections are currently housed in the National Museum of Photography Film and Television in Bradford, Yorkshire.

Anyone can join the RPS as an ordinary member.

The RPS awards three levels of photographic distinctions, the Licentiateship (LRPS), Associateship (ARPS) and Fellowship (FRPS). LRPS and ARPS portfolios can be submitted without being a member of the RPS although, if you gain the distinction, you must join and you must maintain your membership to keep using the distinction letters after your name. Individuals can apply directly to the RPS without being members of any photographic organisation.

LRPS - requires a portfolio of 10 prints, slides or electronic images. These are assessed and judged by a panel of experts. The images "should form a cohesive group and illustrate the author's competence in technique and composition".

ARPS - is a more advanced award requiring 15 slides or prints in a particular category of photography - Nature, Contemporary, Visual Art, Documentary and Visual Journalism, Travel, AV as well as more scientific and research based imagery (there are also AV and video distinctions). The portfolios are judged as a panel by acknowledged experts in the field and must show a "high degree of proficiency and the demonstration of a high technical and visual competence".

FRPS - is the highest distinction available from the RPS and "recognises original work and outstanding ability in a specialist field". 20 images are required with a common theme/style.

home | profile| site map | galleries | panoramas | sales | articles | distinctions | links

Page updated June 2008