RPS pauses Distinctions assessments until 2027

In a letter to members released on 11th June 2026, the RPS' Director of Eductation, Anthony Luvera, and CEO, Victoria Humphries, wrote: 

Distinctions remains one of the Society's most valued and respected programmes, and we are embarking on the most significant review and redevelopment of the programme for many years. This work provides an important opportunity to strengthen applicant support, improve consistency and guidance, and ensure that Distinctions continues to support photographers and photographic practice for years to come.

To create the time and organisational capacity needed for this work, the Society has decided to pause all Distinctions assessment events for the remainder of 2026, including Licentiate, Associate, and Fellowship assessments.

This pause will enable the redevelopment and implementation work required to introduce a revised Distinctions Programme in 2027. This includes strengthening applicant support, assessment and moderation processes, guidance, communication, and operational delivery.

What does this mean for members? 

• If you are currently preparing work for a Distinctions submission, you should continue developing your photographic practice and portfolio.
• Existing work and preparation remain valuable. Members are not being asked to start again.
• Applicants who have already entered the assessment process are being contacted directly regarding next steps and available options.
• Further information and support will be provided through the Society's Distinctions webpages and FAQs.

Importantly, this should not be understood as a pause in photographic development, learning, or member engagement. The Society will continue to support photographic development while future Distinctions support activity is developed.

We are excited about the opportunities this work presents and look forward to sharing further information, FAQs, and updates over the coming months.