The Master Photographers Association Qualifications are governed by your ability to produce Creative Merchantable Quality Photographs. There are three grades of Qualification, Licentiate (LMPA), Associate (AMPA) and Fellowship (FMPA).
The first grade (LMPA) indicates the award of qualified Member of the Master Photographers Association. Applicants must present ten examples of current commissioned work sized to 10"x 8" mounted on card. This should show competence in their chosen field of photography showing an understanding of lighting, posing and the general ability to create merchantable quality photography. Licentiate Panels are judged quarterly.
The second grade (AMPA) indicates the award of Associateship. This award puts you in the top 10% of your peers. It is awarded in recognition of excellence in technique, creative interpretation. Iighting, posing, composition and a high degree of understanding in the art of professional photography. Applicants must submit fifteen examples of current commissioned work, mounted on 20"x 16" card or board, the print itself can be any size within the confines of the mount. It is recommended that anyone applying for this degree of qualification attends on the day of the judging in order for the judges to discuss strong or weak point etc.
The third grade (FMPA) indicates the highest qualification awarded within the MPA. It follows similar lines to that of (AMPA) but with twenty examples of current commissioned work. The award is made for total excellence in the art of professional photography. Applicants for FMPA must attend on the day of the judging.
AMPA and FMPA judging takes place twice a year, normally February and August and notification of these dates is publicised in "The Master Photographer" magazine giving dates and venues. Alternatively a Member can call Head Office for details.
There are many benefits offered within the MPA but to avail yourself of these benefits you must be qualified, don't delay and leave it to the last minute and miss out on what could be an extremely beneficial promotion for you. If you have any doubts about your ability there is always help available through your Regional Chairman. He can put you in touch with the regional qualifications co-ordinator who will be happy to advise you.
The MPA also offers you regional seminars, training and print competitions and winners from these competitions go forward to the annual Master Photographer of the Year awards. There are many category winners and from these winners an overall winner is chosen to become the United Kingdom's MASTER PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR..
All this by joining the MPA. If you are in professional photography then the MPA is the Association that can offer you all of the benefits, help and advice you need to run a successful business.