The Guild of Photographers

Guild Qualifications

Please note that Qualifications from other respectable organisations are transferable & we offer the best value submission process (an initial application to become Qualified in the category of your choice is free of charge)!

Photography related qualifications have always been a controversial issue, for how do you judge an art form? We apply criteria at our base qualification level which indicates competence to the level that the public should be ‘pleased with’ when employing the services of a "Qualified" photographer. In other words ‘Qualified’ means ‘competent’ and those who achieve that should be proud of doing so. We then add an increasing level of professional critique to members work as they progress through the levels. In other words we get increasingly ‘fussy’ and look in minutiae at all the elements of photographic understanding. The small numbers that reach our ultimate accolades have demonstrated the finest technical skills and an exceptional creative and artistic ‘eye’.

You don’t need any qualifications to join the Guild of Photographers, as you enter as a Registered member. However, a very good reason for joining the Guild is to gain the qualifications we offer. As you progress up the scale from Qualified member to Master Craftsman, you can prove to yourself your skill level and show your customers that you are committed to providing them with the very best service.

Guild qualifications can be achieved in your chosen speciality – wedding, portrait, sporting etc. but not a mixture. However, there is nothing to stop you becoming qualified in more than one area.

These are the Guild’s stages and information on how to obtain each level (In all cases we recommend participation in the Mentoring Programme to assist you in making an application).


Qualified

A copy of your PL and PI Insurance Certificate is required.

Submit 20 images from three different assignments undertaken by you in the past 18 months and relevant to the area you seek qualification in. They can be presented on disc (see foot of page*), we can view them on-line or you can submit prints at least 8×6" in size . The aim is to show that you are competent not only in the technical quality of your photography, but also in knowing the specific skills required for the area you have applied for. Our judging process is detailed and involves at least two of the panel (or Directors) reviewing your submission. Both must aprove the submission for you to pass.

Wedding Category application. Your selection must include at least six shots of a formal or posed nature – such as signing the register, bride with father, bride head and shoulders, bride full length, groom, groom and best man, bride and groom coming down the aisle, cake cutting, etc . At least six more photographs must be of groups – such as bride and bridesmaids, bridal couple with parents, and included in that six must be two large groups from different weddings. The other shots can be of your choice in order to reflect your style.

Portrait Category application. Your selection needs to be varied, comprising formal and candid, showing head and shoulders, full length, individuals and groups. At least ten should be taken in a studio setting, or using artificial light indoors. Most should show a degree of input on behalf of the photographer in posing. A maximum of ten candid shots is permitted.

Other areas. Your selection needs to be varied, showing input and creativity by the photographer. Images should show technical skill, understanding of lighting, good composition and the capture of atmosphere or story.

 

Craftsman

A copy of your PL and PI Insurance Certificate is required .

Submit three complete assignments or albums consisting of at least 50 images each. These can be presented on disc (see foot of page*), we can view them on-line or you can submit the physical items. Each assignment or album needs to be accompanied by letters of  recommendation off those clients, along with their contact details as we may contact them. The requirements for ‘Qualified’ submissions also apply to ‘Craftsman’ applications, but with the added requirement that we wish to see far more creative interpretation, better choice of location, more thought and virtually faultless technique. Our judging process is in-depth and involves at least three of the panel (or Directors) reviewing your submission. All three must aprove the submission for you to pass.

Wedding Category application. The aim is to show complete proficiency in the craft of wedding photography, along with creativity and experience in directing shots to create an exciting memory of the day for your bride and groom. Each wedding should include the basics as outlined in Qualified requirements plus a selection of reportage, romantic and formal shots particular to each wedding. Your own personality and experience will determine the type of shots you take, but they must show proficiency in directing formal poses as well such as signing the register, bride and groom in various poses, cake cutting, and groups.

Portrait Category application. The aim is to show your versatility and control of light, variety of composition etc. Portraiture can be interpreted as family, child, engagement, or makeover – in essence the type of portraits your customers would be happy to buy from you to display or give as gifts. Each session should show a good mix of backgrounds, poses and subjects.

Other areas. The aim is to show complete proficiency in your craft, along with versitility, creativity and experience in directing shots, alomg with control of light and variety of composition. The submission should be from at least 3 assignments and show a good variety of style.

 

Master Craftsman

A copy of your PL and PI Insurance Certificate and contract is required.

Submit three complete original assignments or albums (not on disc), consisting of at least 50 images each. In addition you will need to supply an enlargement of at least 12”x16”, framed or mounted on card, from each assignment. Each assignment or album needs to be accompanied by letters of  recommendation off those clients, along with their contact details as we may contact them.

This is our highest distinction and recognizes you as a being a true ‘master ‘of your craft, able to create work of the highest standard both technically and artistically so your application must reflect the highest level of content and presentation and show the most meticulous attention to detail and creativity along with complete understanding of the art and technicalities of photography. Our judging process is very in-depth and involves at four of the panel (or Directors) reviewing your submission. All four must approve the granting of this most esteemed award.

Wedding Category application. You must demonstrate the highest degree of excellence in your use of light, backgrounds, settings and natural props, along with the ability to create shots which will provide beautiful and lasting memories for your clients.

Portrait Category application. We are looking for the highest level of creativity along with a mastery of the art and technical aspects of photography. The aim is to demonstrate that you are producing the ultimate highly desirable and beautiful portraits for your clients.

Other areas. You must demonstrate the highest degree of excellence in your use of light, technical skill, variety of composition & creativity to create the ultimate images in your chosen field.


What we look for in a submission

The overall decision is based on an assessment of the following –

 

Important Notes regarding an application

Qualifications are awarded to the applying photographer not to the business they work for or represent. All submissions must be their own work and accompanied by a completed application form certifying that, along with the appropriate fee. Any prints must be numbered and identified as yours by membership number only as the identity of the applicant needs to remain anonymous during the judging process. Postage costs and suitable packaging must be included if you require your submission to be returned. Submission's will be judged “as presented”, so please ensure that presentation is good as it reflects committment and pride in ones work. All submissions must have been taken within the eighteen months prior to the submission date. The decision of the Guild is final and no correspondence will be entered into about this. However, all applicants will receive a critique to assist with development.

 

Application Costs -

Qualified 

Initial submission in the category of your choice – Free

Subsequent re-submissions in the same category within 6 months of the initial attempt £15 (if required). In all other circumstances £30.

Craftsman

Initial submission – £60.

Subsequent re-submissions in the same category within 12 months of the initial attempt £30. Otherwise revert to initial submission price.

Master Craftsman

Initial submission – £95.

Subsequent submissions within 12 months of the initial attempt £50. Otherwise revert to initial submission price.

Prices exclude postage and packaging costs which are to be paid by the applicant.


*In all cases a digital submission will take the form of 20 Images in JPEG format, sequentially numbered 1 to 20 with no prefixes whatsoever. Each file should not exceed 4MB. The files should be placed in a single folder and cut to a CD. The CD must be clearly marked with your membership number.