Society of International Media & Press Photographers - Qualifications and distinctions

Gain meaningful qualifications and distinctions through The Society of International Media & Press Photographers

Licentiate
The general public tend to regard this, our lowest level of qualification as a “Licensed” photographer and in many ways this is not an unreasonable analogy. As far as ‘The Society’ is concerned, we draw our judges for all levels of qualification from amongst the most skilful practitioners in the World. They are trained to look at this level for a consistent standard of imaging that a client could reasonably not take issue with. If you like, a base level of professional competence or in the terminology of Trading Standards departments, “items of merchantable quality”. Of course we also look at aesthetics and imagination but at this level they are not crucial factors.

Associateship
At this standard, we are viewing images that not only display a high degree of technical ability, but also portray imagination and creativity in execution and presentation. These are important factors that often go hand in hand with higher prices as this qualification is held by the top 10% of practitioners, who coincidentally are often impressive image-makers and astute businessmen.

Fellowship
Our ultimate accolade and is held by the top 1% of the memberships of most of the UK’s representative bodies. These select few have achieved the highest professional standards in imaging, creativity, presentation and behaviour. As with the judging criteria for ‘Associateship’, never bestowed lightly but only after constant submission of work to their mentors, rigorous examinations and many years in professional practice. So, to our members, we encourage you to achieve qualifications that benchmark you and your work within the photographic industry.

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Qualification applied for

Licentiate £65.00 GBP Associate £120.00 GBP Fellowship £175.00 GBP

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