Distinctions
The Bangladesh Photographic Society (BPS) Distinctions are prestigious accolades awarded to photographers in recognition of their technical mastery, artistic vision, and contributions to the field of photography. The two primary honors are Associateship (ABPS) and Fellowship (FBPS), granted after a rigorous evaluation of a candidate’s portfolio by a panel of experts. Applicants must submit a cohesive body of work demonstrating originality, technical excellence, and creative storytelling, adhering to international standards. These distinctions not only validate a photographer’s skill but also elevate their standing within the global photographic community, fostering cultural exchange and inspiring photographers in Bangladesh to pursue artistic excellence. BPS distinctions symbolize a commitment to advancing photography as both an art form and a medium of documentation.
Licentiateship (LBPS)
Open to all – anyone, whether you are a member of The Society or not (except Bangladeshi applicants) may apply. This is usually the starting point. You must show that you are good at Presentation, Technical Quality, Visual Awareness, and Communication. Ten Photographic Works (Either Black & White or Color or Mixed of Both) should be submitted with the application. All submitted work should have variety in subject, well composition, quality of theme, and its control by light. There are no rights or wrongs here, but ensure that if an image has been converted to monochrome, value has been added and you are not just presenting a color image with its color removed. Person, who has been active in the field of Photography at least for Three (3) years with good Technical knowledge-eligible to apply. Evidence of at least 20 National or 20 International Acceptances will be major selection criteria. As often as it is mentioned, personal input to pictures is very important. It is an opportunity to show imagination and creativity. It can perhaps best be described as seeing rather than just looking; then making a selection, using the tools and techniques at your disposal, to eliminate distractions to let your subject dominate the picture. The resulting image will then be your picture, your interpretation, and not simply a snapshot.
Associateship (ABPS)
Open to all – anyone, whether you are a member of the Bangladesh Photographic Society or not a member may apply. At this level, you need to show evidence of creative ability, a high standard of technical competence, and a complete, expert, comprehensive knowledge of your discipline. Your work should be consistent and also make a statement of a strong personal style. A high standard of presentation is expected. Any Photographer can apply directly for this distinction. Fifteen Photographic Works (Either Black & White or Color or Mixed of Both) should be submitted with the application. All submitted work should have variety in the subject, well composition, quality of the theme, and its control by light. There are no rights or wrongs here, but ensure that if an image has been converted to monochrome, value has been added and you are not just presenting a color image with its color removed. A person, who has been active in the field of Photography at least for five (5) years with good Technical knowledge is eligible to apply. Major selection criteria will be evidence of at least 30 National or 50 International Acceptances. As often as it is mentioned, personal input to pictures is very important. It is an opportunity to show imagination and creativity. It can perhaps best be described as seeing rather than just looking; then making a selection, using the tools and techniques at your disposal, to eliminate distractions in order to let your subject dominate the picture. The resulting image will then be your picture, your interpretation, and not simply a snapshot.
Successful Applicant will receive a Diploma and BPS Badge and after that, he/she can use the title ABPS after his/her name.
Fellowship (FBPS)
The highest level of Distinction, the Fellowship is awarded for excellence and evidence of distinguished ability. The excellence of technical quality is essential, but if your work is interpretive, then the quality should be appropriate to the subject and intent. At this level, it is expected that you will show individuality, with strong personal input and an element of originality or freshness in your approach. 10-20 Photographic Works of a photo story or single subject portfolio (Either Black & White or Color or Mixed of Both) should be submitted with the application. A person, who is active in the field of Photography at least for a period of ten (10) years with good Technical knowledge and having ABPS Distinction for at least 2 years is eligible to apply. Evidence of at least 50 Club/National or 200 International Acceptances will be a credit.
Successful Applicant will receive a Diploma and BPS Badge and after that, he/she can use the title FBPS after his/her name.
Notes for applying for the distinctions
The list of notes mentioned here can be useful while you apply for any distinctions from BPS.
- AFIAP Holders will get 50 marks out of 100 for applying for ABPS Distinction.
- EFIAP Holders will get 50 marks out of 100 for applying for FBPS distinction.
- A candidate who wants to apply for FBPS must have ABPS distinction at least for 2 years.
- Successful candidates can use the distinction after his/her name for a lifetime.
- Only Bangladeshi candidates should be members of BPS.
Application Submission
To submit your applications, please upload all the required documents to Google Drive/ One Drive and then email the link to info@bpsbd.org.
Please download the application form and fill out Sheet A, Sheet B, and Sheet C of the Spreadsheet.
- Page A for Applicant’s information and Signature
- Page B for the Submitted works list
- Page C for List of Acceptance file FIAP and BPS.
- Scan copy of AFIAP, EFIAP, or other Distinctions Certificates.
- Submitted works/Images should be in 1920 x 1080 pixels.
Application Fees
There is a fee for applying for distinctions. This fee is non-refundable and non-transferable regardless of whether your application is accepted or not. The application fee includes the certificate post charges.
- For Bangladeshi Nationality LBPS, ABPS & FBPS: BDT. 5,000 (Five Thousand)
- For other Nationalities USD. 100 (One Hundred)
Distinction Application Form
Please click on the button below to download the Distinction Application form.