Accreditation Pathways

    Many of our members work towards photographic accreditations that recognise achievement and progression in photography. These awards can be an excellent way to challenge yourself, improve your skills, and gain recognition for your work. Below are some of the main pathways available to UK photographers.

    1. British Photographic Exhibitions (BPE)

    The BPE Crown Awards are achieved through acceptance of images in affiliated British Photographic Exhibitions.

    • BPE 1* to BPE 5*: Awarded for achieving 25, 50, 100, 200 and 300 acceptances.
    • BPE Crown 6 & 7: Higher levels recognising 600 and 1,000 acceptances.

    👉 Visit the BPE website for details of upcoming exhibitions and entry requirements.

    2. Fédération Internationale de l’Art Photographique (FIAP)

    FIAP is an international body that awards distinctions based on international exhibition acceptances.

    • AFIAP – Artist FIAP
    • EFIAP – Excellence FIAP (with higher EFIAP levels for more acceptances)
    • MFIAP – Master FIAP

    👉 FIAP UK portal (administered through the PAGB) has details on how UK photographers can apply.

    3. Photographic Alliance of Great Britain (PAGB) Awards

    The PAGB Awards for Photographic Merit are judged on a panel of submitted prints or PDIs. They are recognised across the UK and are highly respected.

    • CPAGB – Credit PAGB
    • DPAGB – Distinction PAGB
    • MPAGB – Master PAGB

    👉 Learn more about PAGB Awards

    4. Royal Photographic Society (RPS) Distinctions

    The RPS offers three levels of distinction, open to members worldwide:

    • LRPS – Licentiate (demonstrates good photographic competence)
    • ARPS – Associate (a creative or specialist body of work)
    • FRPS – Fellowship (highest level, outstanding photography)

    👉 Visit the RPS Distinctions page for guidance and examples.

    Getting Started

    • Attend club competitions to refine your images.
    • Enter local and national exhibitions to begin collecting acceptances.
    • Build a portfolio of work for panel-based distinctions (PAGB, RPS).
    • Ask other club members who already hold distinctions – they can share their experiences and advice.

    📌 Tip: The club often invites speakers who hold these awards or sit on assessment panels – keep an eye on the Events Page for opportunities to learn more.