The British Photographers Alliance

Why become BPA qualified ? 

Stand Out in the Photography Industry

BPA qualifications

backed by pro industry leaders

deliver:

• Enhanced Market Value
• Professional Recognition
• Technical Excellence
• Creative Confidence
• Career Advancement

Three Pathways to success:

In-Camera, Creative Composite, or Artistic Innovation.


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Categories

All submissions must ensure they fall within the relevant criteria

Advertising and Commercial

This category is designed for commercial use in promoting, marketing, or advertising a product, brand, service, or individual. It includes aerial, automotive, food, product, still life, personal branding, music covers, and corporate photography. Both composite and non-composite images, as well as retouched images, are permitted within this category.  Images must not contain any text or graphic elements that were not part of the original capture.

Architectural & Industrial

Architectural entries are designed to accurately document structures while also embracing artistic approaches, such as capturing distinctive angles or creating abstract images from the building's form.  In contrast, industrial photography specifically caters to businesses in the industrial sector, serving engineering firms, manufacturers, factories, and high-tech startups with precision and expertise.

Classical Wedding

Images should be taken during the wedding celebration, whether it’s a single-day or multi-day event, capturing the atmosphere and personalities while highlighting the photographer's creativity, posing, technical skills, and light management. Minor retouching, cropping, colour adjustments, and cleaning are allowed, as well as the use of HDR for a broader tonal range.

Composite Creation

Composite photography entails combining two or more different images to form a new one. All images must be the original work of the author, elements such as textured backgrounds are allowed. However, you must have captured or created all parts of the final image yourself and may not source any element from 3rd parties, e.g. stock imagery or AI generators.

Documentary

Documentary photography provides a clear representation of people, places, objects, and events, often used in reportage. It chronicles significant historical events and everyday life, practiced as  photojournalism or as an artistic pursuit.

Documentary Wedding

The ability to capture unposed moments as they unfold on a wedding day is essential. These images should be genuine, reflecting actual moments rather than posed or staged scenes, ensuring authenticity in every shot. Photographs can be taken during the wedding day or throughout the celebration, including multi-day ceremonies, without removing the couple to create/capture shots.

Environmental Portrait

An environmental portrait is a portrait executed in a natural environment, such as in their home, workplace or on location.

Fashion & Beauty

Fashion photography highlights a lifestyle, sparks interest and encourages customers to purchase products, businesses or fashion brands. This category often features clothing, fashion accessories, makeup and styling. In contrast, beauty photography focuses on the beauty of a person or object and can be either artistic or commercial, often utilising glamour-style portraiture.

Fine Art

A fine art portrait is created by an artist, not just taken by the camera. The photographer's vision is essential to the final image and should also demonstrate exemplary post-production techniques in the final image.

Landscape

Landscape photography includes natural and artificial landscapes, urban landscapes, cityscapes, sunsets and astrophotography. All images must be presented as single-frame shots. However, panoramic images created through photo stitching, focus stacking, multi-exposures taken in the same location within a short time frame and HDR for an extended tonal range, are permitted.

Macro

Macro photography are images where the subject is captured at life size or greater magnification. This style often features slightly larger subjects while showcasing the details typical of extreme close-up photography for a dramatic effect. It focuses on making small objects, like insects, flowers or food, appear much larger than they are in reality.

Natural World

This category focuses on nature photography, encompassing plants, animals, natural scenes and underwater photography. Animals that are not in their natural habitat, such as pets, farm animals, zoo animals or trained animals, should be submitted in the Domesticated Animals category.

Newborn

This category is for newborns up to 8 weeks old at the time of capture. For images of babies and children older than this, please submit them to one of the other portrait categories. Parents or caregivers may not be included in the image unless they are used as props, as fingers or shoulders.

Pets & Domesticated Animals

This category is for animals not found in their natural habitat, including pets, farm animals, and those living in zoos. Animal portraits can be taken in a studio or on location. Please note that animals photographed in natural habitat should be submitted to the separate Natural World category.

Portrait & Digital Creation

This genre is designed for artistic photographers and is the only category where purchased stock and AI-generated images can be used as composite elements to enhance the main photograph. However, the primary work must be the photographer's own and proof may be required if questioned.

Press & PR

This category of photography is all about choosing the perfect photo to accompany a pitch for an article, case study or press release. It's vital because images amplify the content, catching the reader's eye and prompting their curiosity.

Sport

This category is for all sports-related photography, editorial or artistic, featuring any competitive or recreational sport, sport-people and activities.

Studio Portrait

The studio portrait category includes adults, teenagers, children, toddlers, families and self-portraits. This genre focuses on artistic images that capture the unique personalities and characteristics of individuals or groups, showcasing the photographer's creative vision and technical skills.

Qualify with the
British Photographers Alliance

Three Accreditation options to choose from

In Camera

All main body of work has been produced in camera with basic post production and no elements added in post production.

Composite

All main body of work has been produced in camera by the author, including the composite elements used.

Artistic

All main body of work has been produced by the author.  Elements that are used for compositing can be purchased stock or generated in AI. Proof of the authors main body of work may be requested digitally before viewing by the judges. 

Licentiate (LBPA)
1st level of accreditation

We've made it easier than ever to apply for your Licentiate accreditation. Our online application process allows you to submit your application and required materials, including 10 digital images together with a contact sheet, all from the comfort of your own home. 

We always recommend starting with the Licentiate, unless you're an experienced photographer, in which case you may choose to apply for our Associate Accreditation first. 

If you're applying for the Licentiate, your submission should consistently demonstrate an understanding of light control, colour harmony and balance, thoughtful composition which adds to the subject, also In camera skills exhibiting exposure control aligned with post production. 

Technical and Artistic Requirements:

  • Consistent demonstration of light control across all images.
    Clear understanding of color harmony and balance.
    Thoughtful composition that enhances the subject matter.
    Strong in-camera skills showing exposure control.
    Post-production work that aligns with and supports capture technique.
  •  

Panel Presentation:

  • 10 images with professional digital mounting/borders.
    Uniform border style and dimensions throughout.
    Logical panel arrangement showing technical competency.
  •  

Assessment Criteria:

  • Images examined at 100% magnification.
    Technical evaluation of light control and exposure.
    Color management.
    Composition principles.
    Post-processing precision.
    Overall technical execution.
  •  

Author Quality Control Checklist:

  • Review technical aspects at 100% zoom.
    Verify consistent light control across panel.
    Check color harmony and balance.
    Confirm strong compositional elements.
    Ensure post-production complements original capture.
  • Verify consistent border dimensions across pane.
  •  

Remember:

  • While this is an entry-level qualification, each image must demonstrate fundamental mastery of both technical and artistic elements, with particular attention to light control, composition, and post-production quality.

Guidelines for Submitting Digital Images - Licentiate:

  • 10 images in JPEG format sequentially numbered 01 to 10 with no prefixes whatsoever. 
  • A separate contact sheet of all ten images must also be included, showing a copy of your presentation order.
  • Each file should not exceed 2 MB
  • Keep the images to 2000 pixels on the longest edge.
  • The files should be placed in a single folder and inserted into a zip folder for electronic Transfer.
  • Submission type will be either In Camera, Composite or Artistic and must be included in the folder name.
  • All digital submissions must have consistant borders.
  •  

The folder should be named as follows:

  • Your_Name_Category_Submission_Type_LBPA 
  • When you have your digital submission completed and are ready to submit for judging, please make your payment (a receipt will be immediately issued and forwarded to you). Forward your submission (and a copy of your presentation order), to head office for FREE via We Transfer – [email protected]

In the case of all submissions, your application should be in a singular discipline, i.e. LANDSCAPES, DOCUMENTARY, SPORT, PORTRAIT etc.

Please note:

  • For digital submissions your images will also be presented one at a time in numerical order. This will be done twice.
  •  
  • We're here to support you throughout the process, so please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns. ([email protected])
  •  
  • Further advice on submissions and the requisites for a successful Licentiate application is available via the ‘Pathway Mentoring’ programme.
  •  
  • Applying for your Licentiate Accreditation has never been easier thanks to our online application process and you can enter your images as digitals straight away.
Licentiate

£80.00

Associate (ABPA)
2nd Level of Accreditation

To obtain the Associate accreditation, applicants must submit a body of work or project that demands a higher degree of skill.  Moving on from licentiateship we expect to see 15 digitals or prints, that are exhibiting a creative use of the camera which will need great attention to detail, use of depth of field, shutter speeds and a higher level of light manipulation.

Seeds of a style becoming evident to assessors viewing the submission that will exhibit the work of a craftsman, you should also demonstrate a consistent post-production style and the ability to prepare files for print, including output knowledge and the correct choice of printing media (if applicable).  The panel should hang together as a cohesive piece of work. The qualification panel can only be submitted digitally or in print.  Supporting evidence maybe required and should be submitted digitally, if requested.

Associate Criteria:

  • A Statement of Intent that clearly outlines the purpose of the work, along with its aims and objectives.
  • A unified body of work that illustrates and conveys the aims and objectives outlined in the Statement of Intent.
  • A collection of work that expresses an individual's vision and understanding.
  • A strong level of technical skill utilising techniques and photographic practices suitable for the subject.
  • An appropriate understanding of craft and artistic presentation.

Associate Panel Digital Submission Requirements - 15 Images Panel Presentation:

  • Panel must consist of 15 images presented as a cohesive body of work
    Digital mounting/borders required to mirror printed presentation
    Consistent border style and dimensions across all 15 images
    Professional layout demonstrating clear panel flow and arrangement
  •  

Technical Requirements:

  • Images will undergo detailed examination at 100% magnification
    Every image must withstand close technical scrutiny, including:Clean, precise post-processing
    Sharp edge detail
    Artifact-free editing
    Consistent quality across all images
    Professional-level retouching
  •  

Author Quality Control Checklist:

  • Pre-submission author review at 100% zoom
    Verification of technical excellence in all 15 images
    Confirmation of consistent mounting/borders
    Assessment of panel cohesion and flow
    Final review of post-processing accuracy
  •  

Guidelines for Associate Digital Submissions

  • 15 images in JPEG format sequentially numbered 01 to 15 with no prefixes whatsoever. 

  • A separate contact sheet of all 15 images must also be included, together with the Statement of Intent.

  • Each file should not exceed 4 MB.

  • Keep the images to 2000 pixels on the longest edge.

  • All digital submissions must have consistant borders.

  • The files should be placed in a single folder and inserted into a zip folder for electronic Transfer.

  • Submission type will be either In Camera, Composite or Artistic and must be included in the folder name.

  • In the case of all submissions, your application should be in a singular discipline (Category), i.e. LANDSCAPES, DOCUMENTARY, SPORT, PORTRAIT etc. and also a singular Submission Type (In Camera, Composite or Artistic)

  •  

The folder should be named as follows:

  • Your_Name_Category_Submission_Type_ABPA 

  • Keep the images to 2000 pixels on the longest edge.

  • When you have your digital submission completed and are ready to submit for judging, please make your payment (a receipt will be immediately issued and forwarded to you). Forward your submission (including the ‘statement of intent’ and a copy of your presentation order), to head office via We Transfer – [email protected]
  • Please note: for digital submissions your images will also be presented one at a time in numerical order. This will be done twice.

Remember:

  • While this is an Associate level submission, the technical standards for digital presentation remain stringent. Each image must demonstrate professional-level execution in both artistic presentation and technical quality.
  •  

Guidelines for Associate Print Submissions 

  • A submission of 15 prints are required at 16” x 12” mounted onto board not thicker than 8mm.  Please use the download templates, to confirm the sequence for presentation of your submission.
  •  

Ensure that on the reverse of each mount, it clearly shows the following information:

  • Your_Name_Category_Submission_Type_ABPA 
  • Layout Template: Option One (select to download pdf template)
  • Layout Template: Option Two (select to download pdf template)
  •  
  • When you have your print submission completed and are ready to submit for judging, please make your payment (a receipt will be immediately issued and forwarded to you).
  •  
  • Forward your submission (including the statement of intent and a copy of your presentation layout), to head office (we would recommend making use of one of the ‘Recorded Delivery’ providers/ services).  Alternative delivery methods may be an option, please contact the office direct, for details.
  •  
  • In the case of all submissions, your application should be in a singular discipline (Category), i.e. LANDSCAPES, DOCUMENTARY, SPORT, PORTRAIT etc. and also a singular Submission Type (In Camera, Composite or Artistic).
  •  
  • Should you require assistance with your printing, contact Adam Edwards at One Vision Imaging: [email protected]
  •  
  • Further advice on submissions and the requisites for a successful Associate application is available via the ‘Pathway Mentoring’ programme.
Associate
Type

£120.00 - £190.00

Digital SUBMISSION - Fellowship (FBPA) 
3rd Level Of Accreditation

Fellowship is the highest accreditation awarded.  At this level we expect to see imagination, that stands out as individual and encompassing all the previous attributes. However, this must be of the highest order, originality, combined with workmanship, exhibiting all the skills one would expect for this award.  This submission necessitates the utmost attention to detail. Imagery should link from image to image, outlining the thought process that has been applied. Strong composition, good use of light that is sympathetic with the subject. Post-production will need to be impeccable, the final mounted print will need to reflect your artistry through presentation and excellent print quality.

Fellowship Digital Criteria:

  • A submission that showcases a unique body of work.
  • A Statement of Intent that clarifies the purpose of the work, outlining its aims and objectives.
  • A cohesive body of work that illustrates and conveys the aims and objectives outlined in the Statement of Intent.
  • A body of work that conveys an individual's vision and understanding.
  • The highest level of technical skill employing techniques and photographic practices suitable for the subject.
  • A strong and appropriate understanding of craft and artistic presentation.
  • For maximun presentation all imagery must have a border consistant throughout the panel.

Guidelines for Fellowship Digital Submission Only: 

  • 20 images in JPEG format sequentially numbered 01 to 20 with no prefixes whatsoever. 
    A separate contact sheet of all 20 images must also be included, together with the Statement of Intent.
    Each file should not exceed 4 MB.
    Keep the images to 2000 pixels on the longest edge.
  • All digital submissions must have consistant borders.
    The files should be placed in a single folder and inserted into a zip folder for electronic Transfer.
    Submission type will be either In Camera, Composite or Artistic and must be included in the folder name.

As a Fellowship Digital candidate, your submission undergoes an exceptionally thorough technical evaluation. Unlike printed panels, digital submissions are subject to detailed microscopic examination, where each image will be viewed at up to 100% magnification during assessment.

Key Assessment Points:

Every aspect of post-processing will be meticulously examined.
Technical perfection is paramount at pixel level.
No tolerance for processing artifacts or imperfections.
Edge detail and transitions must withstand close inspection.

Author's Responsibility:

  • Before submission, candidates must conduct a comprehensive self-review of their work at high magnification.

This includes:

  • Examining each image at 100% zoom.
    Verifying clean processing across all detail areas.
    Ensuring consistent quality throughout the entire panel.
    Confirming absence of any digital artifacts or processing errors.
  • Checking border precision and presentation consistency.

Remember:

  • Your digital panel must maintain the same professional presentation standards as a printed panel while withstanding intense technical scrutiny. Both the artistic presentation and technical execution must be flawless.

When you have your digital submission completed and are ready to submit for judging, please make your payment (a receipt will be immediately issued and forwarded to you). Forward your submission (including the ‘statement of intent’ and a copy of your presentation order), to head office via We Transfer – [email protected]

Please note: for digital submissions your images will also be presented one at a time in numerical order. This will be done twice.

Forward your submission (including the statement of intent and a copy of your presentation layout order), to head office. 

Fellowship

£190.00

PRINT SUBMISSION - Fellowship PLUS (FBPA ) 
4th Level Of Accreditation

ACCREDITATION OF EXCELLENCE

Fellowship Plus is the highest accreditation awarded.  At this level we expect to see imagination, that stands out as individual and encompassing all the previous attributes. However, this must be of the highest order, originality, combined with workmanship, exhibiting all the skills one would expect for this award.  This submission necessitates the utmost attention to detail. Imagery should link from image to image, outlining the thought process that has been applied. Strong composition, good use of light that is sympathetic with the subject. Post-production will need to be impeccable, the final mounted print will need to reflect your artistry through presentation and excellent print quality.

Fellowship Plus  Criteria:

  • A submission that showcases a unique body of work.
    A Statement of Intent that clarifies the purpose of the work, outlining its aims and objectives.
    A cohesive body of work that illustrates and conveys the aims and objectives outlined in the Statement of Intent.
    A body of work that conveys an individual's vision and understanding.
    The highest level of technical skill employing techniques and photographic practices suitable for the subject.
    A strong and appropriate understanding of craft and artistic presentation.
    Guidelines for Fellowship Print Submission Only 

Guidelines for Fellowship Plus  Print Submission Only:

  • A submission of 20 prints is required, minimum of 20x16 (excluding border) mounted onto board not thicker than 8mm.
    Please use the download template, to confirm the sequence for presentation of your submission.
    Layout Template (select to download PDF template)
    Please ensure that on the reverse of each mount, it clearly shows the following

information:

  • Your_Name_Category_Submission_Type_FBPA  
    In the case of all submissions, your application should be in a singular discipline, i.e. LANDSCAPES, DOCUMENTARY, SPORT, PORTRAIT etc. and also a singular Submission Type (In Camera, Composite or Artistic).

When submitting an application for the FBPA accreditation, your submission should consist of the very best, this is your opportunity to showcase your skills and abilities as a skilled professional, so it's important to choose your images carefully, concentrate on one area of expertise and excellence only. 

  • Should you require assistance with your printing, contact Adam Edwards: [email protected]

  • Further advice on submissions and the requisites for a successful Fellowship Plus application is available via the ‘Pathway Mentoring’ programme.

  • When you have your print submission completed and are ready to submit for judging, please make your payment (a receipt will be immediately issued and forwarded to you).

  • Forward your submission (including the statement of intent and a copy of your presentation layout order), to head office (we would recommend making use of one of the ‘Recorded Delivery’ providers/ services).  Alternative delivery methods may be an option, please contact the office direct, for details.
     
Fellowship

£190.00

Already achieved your levels with another industry body? 
Lets bring you over to the BPA

Licentiateship

For photographers that have already achieved their Licentiateship Level, we are delighted to confirm that we will award like for like with our LBPA accreditation.  Please forward via email, confirmation of your qualification. No charges applicable.

Associateship

For photographers that have already achieved their Associateship Level, upon receipt of a digital submission of 15 images for assessment by our senior judge to confirm eligibility for us to acknowledge your level of achievement and award like for like with our ABPA.  Please forward via email, confirmation of your qualification.  A submission fee of £60 is applicable and must accompany your submission.

Associateship Upgrade

£60.00

Fellowship 

For photographers that have already achieved their Fellowship Level, upon receipt of a digital submission of 20 images for assessment by our senior judge to confirm eligibility for us to acknowledge your level of achievement and award like for like with our FBPA.  Please forward via email, confirmation of your qualification.  A submission fee of £85 is applicable and must accompany your submission.

Fellowship Upgrade

£85.00

FAQ

There is NO subscription fee to join the British Photographers Alliance.

You do not have to be a member of the ‘Develop’ platform to take your accreditations with the BPA, however membership does have its benefits including professional guidance, to place you in a better position to achieve success with your submission.  

We believe that after investing your time and effort into your accreditations, the success you have achieved should be yours to retain for life and not be something that your entitled to use subject to membership of our ‘Develop’ platform. 

The benefits available to subscribers to the ‘Develop’ platform enables them to gain access to the professional educational content that may be sufficient to inspire and assist on your accreditation journey and in addition, further support is available, through our ‘Pathway Mentoring’ programmes. 

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