General

1.Do I need to read the Distinctions Handbook?

Yes! it is essential you read the Handbook

2. Do I have to be a member of the Society before applying for its Distinctions?

No, you may apply as a non member, but if you are successful you are asked to join the Society in order to hold the Distinction and use the letters after your name.

3. How much does it cost?

Application fees are: £40 for LRPS, £60 for ARPS, £75 for FRPS + cost of return postage of your work.

4. What format do I have to submit?

Usually applications are in the form of prints, slides or images on CD (CD for LRPS and ARPS only)

5. How many images should I submit?

Usually 10 for LRPS, 15 for ARPS, 20 for FRPS

6. Do I have to apply for LRPS first?

No, if you are a reasonably experienced photographer, you can apply straight for the Associateship.

7. Can I apply straight for the Fellowship?

No, you need to be an Associate member of the Society before applying for the Fellowship, or a Fellow of the BIPP.

8. I have heard that there is a direct Fellowship route - how does that work?

This is for photographers who have an established national/international reputation and is based on their CV, exhibitions, publications etc and 4 references. Details available on request.

9. Can I submit a totally digital application ie using a digital camera?

Yes!

10. When will I hear the result of my application?

For Licentiateship and Associateship: The names of all recommended applicants will be posted on the website within 48 hours of the assessment. Applicants who have not been recommended will receive notification by e-mail. If you do not have e-mail a letter will be sent 1st Class post.

For Fellowship: recommended submissions go to the Fellowship Board which meets every six months after the spring and autumn round of assessments. Applicants are kept informed of the progress of their applications and those who are not successful will receive feedback from the Chairman.

11. Can I get help if I am not recommended?

Yes, all unsuccessful applicants receive feedback and whenever possible we will put you in touch with a Panel member who will try to help you.

12. Will my work be returned to me?

Submissions on CD are not returned unless specifically requested. All other portfolios are returned, but you must pay for the postage.

13. How do I know how much to pay for the return of my work?

For UK applicants, details of the next day courier service are given on the application form. For overseas applicants it is helpful if credit card details can be provided so that the cost of return can be charged after the assessment.

14. Can I use some of the images from my successful LRPS application in my ARPS application?

You can, but it is not usually recommended as there is a big difference in standard between the two levels.

15. Do I have to wait for a certain length of time after gaining my LRPS before applying for the ARPS?

No, but it is best not to rush into it for the reason given above.

16. For LRPS, do I have to submit a variety of work to include landscape, portraiture, pictorial etc.?

No, if you have a particular area of interest in your photography, you can submit a portfolio of work on that subject. You should ensure, however, that you show variety in the composition, technique, lighting etc.

17. My photography is very varied but for ARPS do I have to  concentrate on a fairly tight theme?

No, you may submit a variety of work to the Visual Art Panel. However, you should not submit a completely random set of images, but concentrate on 2 or 3 areas.  And don't forget to consider how they look when displayed together or in sequence. If your work is taken for commercial purposes, you can still submit a variety, but it should go to the Applied Panel. 

18. When I have gained the Associateship, do I have to apply for the Fellowship in the same category?

No, you may apply in any category.

19. Can I park at the HQ in Bath?

Sorry there is no parking at HQ, but you can park nearby in Shakespeare, Kipling or Milton Avenues.
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