Following their update at the AGM on 26 September, Anthony Luvera, the RPS' Director of Education, has shared more about the updated RPS Distinctions Programme, which will begin in 2027...
Anthony Luvera writes:
The Royal Photographic Society has recognised achievement in photography for more than 130 years. Over that time, RPS Distinctions have evolved alongside photography itself, responding to changes in photographic practice, technology and the ways photographers develop and present their work.
Following the pause to assessments earlier this year, we have undertaken a substantial redevelopment of the programme. The updated programme retains Licentiate, Associate and Fellowship while introducing clearer standards and guidance, stronger support for applicants, and revised approaches to assessment, moderation and feedback.
At the heart of the updated programme is a clearer progression through the three Distinction levels:
- Licentiate (LRPS) recognises a sound level of photographic ability and provides an accessible first step into the Distinctions Programme.
- Associate (ARPS) recognises a high level of photographic achievement, with applicants demonstrating an individual approach and a developed body of work.
- Fellowship (FRPS) is the RPS's highest Distinction, recognising exceptional photographic achievement and a significant, sustained and highly developed body of work.
The updated programme also recognises the breadth of contemporary photographic practice and the different ways photographers can demonstrate achievement. Applicants will have clearer information about what is expected at each level and greater support in preparing for assessment.
A clearer, more supportive applicant pathway
The updated programme introduces a clearer applicant pathway, bringing together guidance, tutorials, assessment and feedback as connected parts of the Distinctions experience.
Learning and development will play a more prominent part in this pathway. Applicants will have access to structured tutorial support before assessment, creating opportunities to discuss their work, understand the requirements of their chosen Distinction and make informed decisions about their submission.
Assessment itself is also changing. Clearer criteria, strengthened moderation and a revised approach to feedback are intended to support fair, rigorous and consistent decisions across the programme.
What happens next?
Applications to the updated Distinctions Programme will open in 2027. Further information about the three Distinction levels, routes, standards, applicant support and assessment is now available on the RPS website.
More practical information, including application dates and fees, will follow as we approach the opening of applications.
Applicants whose assessments were deferred when assessments were paused in 2026 will be contacted directly about their existing applications and next steps. They do not need to make a new application.
RPS Distinctions have played an important part in the RPS and photographic community for generations. The updated programme preserves their value and rigour while making the journey clearer, more supportive and better suited to the breadth of photography today.
We look forward to welcoming photographers into the updated RPS Distinctions Programme in 2027.
Best wishes,
Anthony Luvera
Director of Education