This week I continue to step away from my usual shamanic concerns to talk about my other great passion, photography. Specifically, my journey into applying for and being awarded the Royal Photographic Society’s Licentiate Distinction.
In this final instalment, Part 4, I’ll look at how you apply for the LRPS and the assessment process.
Part 4: Submission
Should my submission be for prints or the ‘images for screen’ option?
The consensus is that those who opt for the print option are more successful than those who select the digital/’images for screen’ option. One of the key differences is that you have complete control over the perception of your image and panel with the print option. In addition, there is a nice benefit of having something physical to display after your application.
What size should my submission prints be?
The RPS suggests A4 are perfectly adequate. I went for slightly larger at 10 x 12. Do not submit huge canvases. Aside from the expense and the increased risk of flawed printing, they may not fit the RPS’ hanging space.
Can I print and mount my submission photographs myself?
Yes! Do not take this option lightly. The quality of your prints is formally assessed as part of the process. Be particularly careful of the print mistakes, which most often lead to failing the assessment:
Colour casts – an unwanted tint, often in your shadows. Most often this is the result of lighting of different colour temperatures.
Skin tones – inappropriate lighting can render skin tones unnatural.
Can I get my photographs professionally printed and mounted?
Yes! If you’re in London, I have no hesitation in recommending theprintspace who produced wonderful prints for me. They have an easy-to-use online ordering system. Whilst the staff on-site are fantastic and very helpful. You can also still collect your prints directly from them, via a COVID-secure method.
Make sure that you download your chosen printer’s profiles. You need to see exactly how your final print will look before ordering.
What paper should I use for my submission?
The general recommendation appears to be matt or semi-gloss. I went for Fuji-Flex, which has an ultra high-gloss finish.
For my Advisory Day, I experimented with Kodak Metallic, as I liked the iridescent quality. However, I gather it is not loved by the RPS. So, go with what will give you the best shot!
Any further advice on my submission?
Check your submission carefully. Even though I thought I had meticulously checked and double-checked, I still managed to order one print with a glaring flaw. It was completely my own fault, some kind of cut and pasted replicated square in Photoshop.
Give yourself plenty of time to submit. I had to beg for a rushed re-print, in order to make the LRPS submission schedule and you might have to wait months for the next formal assessment.
What happens at the assessment?
In these times of COVID, I’m afraid that it is all done behind closed doors. Currently, the assessors see the images on screens (which you have to send, in addition to your prints). A separate assessor comments purely on the quality of the physical prints.
If you’re reading this in a post-pandemic world, the RPS may have reverted to it’s original practice of holding assessments in front of an audience. At these events, the physical prints are displayed in the hanging style you stipulate in your panel. An initial vote is called, 2 assessors convey views or concerns, then comments are invited before a final vote.
When will I hear if my submission has been successful?
You should hear within a couple of days via email, if you have been successful. If you are, you will shortly receive a confirmation letter, certificate and lapel badge. If you are not, within 28 days you’ll receive helpful feedback from the Chairperson.
Any final comments?
One slightly controversial point, which I gather is regularly debated at RPS board meetings, is that your LRPS status is only current for as long as you remain a member of the RPS.
There is absolutely no question in my mind, however, that the journey I undertook in applying for the LRPS has improved my photography. The challenge it presents has been enormously rewarding and I highly recommend it.
I wish you the very best of luck!