Photographic distinctions can be attained either through image assessment, or by competition and exhibition successes. Many club members have attained such awards - see HERE

Both the RPS (Royal Photographic Society) and the PAGB (Photographic Alliance of Great Britain) invite their members to 'gain recognition for their photographic achievements (in the words of the RPS) by submitting their work for assessment. Success leads to one of the following qualifications:

RPS
  • Licentiateship (LRPS)   for a good level of basic skill and competence.  10 images assessed.
  • Associateship (ARPS)   for a high standard of technical competence and creativity.  15 images assessed. 
  • Fellowship (FRPS)   for exceptional standards of excellence and distinguished ability.  20 images assessed.
PAGB
  • Badge (BPAGB) for prints only (new in 2023) 7 Prints are required.
  • Credit (CPAGB)   standard is 'good club photography'.  10 images assessed.
  • Distinction (DPAGB)   standard is 'open exhibition photography'.  15 images assessed.
  • Excellence (EPAGB) for prints only (new in 2023) 15 Prints are required.
  • Master (MPAGB)   standard is 'highest standard of UK amateur photography'.  20 images assessed.

Worcestershire Camera Club Diploma - Introduced in early 2017, the WCC Diploma Scheme offers Club members a series of achievable goals to improve their photography, express themselves and gain confidence. The General Diploma is for members who wish to improve photographic skills at a foundation level, while more experienced members can take their expertise to a higher level by doing a Specialised Diploma, choosing from the many topics on offer. The Diplomas also offer a useful preparation for Distinctions offered by the RPS and PAGB. Click here to find out more information...

Other awards are based on competition and exhibition success:

BPE Awards - British Photographic Exhibitions exists to encourage photographers to enter exhibitions and to recognise successful entrants via the issue of Crown Awards photographic distinctions. Points are earned for every entry accepted in a BPE exhibition. 25 points makes you eligible for a BPE*1, continuing up to 300 points for a BPE*5. After that you may apply for Associate and Fellow status.

FIAP distinctions - If you are particularly interested in entering your images into exhibitions and salons (print,PDI or AV), take a look at the FIAP distinctions which are designed to offer support for club photographers. You have to be part of a PAGB-affiliated club (which we are) to take part and exhibitions must have FIAP patronage to count.

The PAGB has a useful and detailed page of information on FIAP awards and how to work towards them: Click Here for further information. You do have to be quite well organised!