Why are we talking about the Royal Photographic Society’s (RPS) Distinction?

• The RPS Distinctions are an internationally recognized mark of standing for any photographer, amateur or professional.
• Photographs submitted are assessed by a separate Panel of Judges, all of whom are respected for their expertise in the area of photography which they cover.
• The most popular RPS Distinctions in Singapore is Associateship and Fellowship.

Can I apply for the RPS Distinctions if I’m not a member of the RPS?

• Yes, as a non-member, you still can submit your application for the Distinctions. However, you have to apply as member once you are awarded the Distinction.
• A member must first obtain the Associateship (ARPS) before he/she could apply for the Fellowship (FRPS).
• Application form and panel date can be obtained from the RPS website or the RPS administrative office.

• In Singapore, ARPS is considered as the first level of entry. The ARPS is awarded for the demonstration of a high technical and visual competence in one of the specialized categories.
• FRPS is a higher level and is a more specialized Distinction, recognizing original work and an outstanding ability in a specialized application of photography.
• The number of the images to be submitted for ARPS is 15 and 20 for FRPS. The images could be in a form of slides or prints (8X10" to 16X20").
• When submitting prints, you must submit a hanging plan (on paper not larger than A4) showing the layout of your images. The display of prints could be in two or three rows.
• For both ARPS and FRPS, a short statement of not more than 150 words must be included. It is to outline the purpose / intention of the work or providing an introduction to the portfolio.

What are the most common photographic categories I can submit for my portfolio?

• Visual Art (pictorial): image should communicate a personal statement about the subject. It should convey a mood and emotion.
• Documentary, Visual Journalism and Travel: capture the feeling of a time and a place, portrays a land, a people and a culture in its natural state. No manipulation is accepted.
• Nature: untamed animals and uncultivated plants in a natural habitat. Human elements should be avoided. Domestic and zoo animals are not encouraged.

• Poor photographic quality
• Lack of understanding of the use of light and shade.
• Lack of pictorial content
• Unsuitable selection of subject matter: too diverse or clinches
• Lack color harmony and control

• Images show critical sharpness
• Good composition – shape, line, texture and perspectives.
• Good use of light and exposure, high standard of definition.
• A strong theme or story line – from beginning to the end.
• Readers can learn something from your images.

• Describe the purpose of your work
• You may also include a short paragraph describing your photographic style and how you prepare your images
• Explaining your portfolio and be very focused
• Limit the statement to 150 words

What quality does the Panel of Judges look for before it recommends an application?

It has always been difficult to give a clear cut answer. However, the RPS does provide some guidelines:

• Quality of communication: To what extend does the panel successful communicate ideas, moods or feeling?
• Originality: to what extent does the panel show evidence of a personal engagement with the subject/s?
• Cohesion: To what extent are the images pictorially interesting individually, whilst contributing to a balanced panel? Are the images sequenced appropriately?
• Artistic Sensitivity: To what extent has the photographer exploited the photographic possibilities of the subject by showing good understanding of lighting and viewpoint. How successfully have camera, film, filters and special techniques been used? How far does the panel show a sensitive understanding of composition, design and perspective?
• Technical Skill: To what extent has the photographer, a) printed the images in sympathy with the subject matter? Has the darkroom control been carried out to a sufficiently high technical standard? Or b) correctly exposed the slide film in sympathy with the subject matter and lighting conditions?
• Presentation: a) Are the prints or slides mounted appropriately (if applicable) and free marks and blemishes? B) Create a good sequence?

• Your package of portfolio should include images (print or slides), hanging plan(for print only), Statement, Distinction application form and application fee.
• Membership application form – for non-member only.