My next goal

As a photographer I’m always looking to improve the standard of my work and to bring it up to the next level so that rather than simply taking photographs, I can capture an image that will stand the test of time as a work of art. (I know, I’m not asking for much eh!!) - OK I may not reach that lofty goal but as the saying goes “If you aim for the stars and only reach the moon, isn’t that an achievement in it self?” (or words to that effect)

So as part of my ongoing development as a photographer, my next goal is to upgrade my professional qualification. There are currently three levels of qualifications, each reflecting increasing levels of experience, skill and achievement.

Licentiate: The entry level which represents an established level of skill and competence.

Associateship: Midway between Licentiateship and Fellowship, which denotes a high standard of craftsmanship and individual creative ability.

Fellowship: The highest qualification attainable and recognises distinguished individual ability and exceptional standards of excellence.

As I’m a member of both the MPA and BIPP and I’m at Licentiaship level, I carry the letters LMPA, LBIPP after my name. But the time has come to move on to Associateship level.

To help me achieve this and to prove to the judging panel that my work does reflect the required “high standard of craftsman and individual creative ability” I’m being mentored and pointed in the right direction.

How long will it take to reach my goal? Who knows! There are only a few upgrade days each year, so it may take a few months, it may take a few years, but at least the journey of self improvement will be worth it. And if I work hard enough who knows one day I may be known as Clive Blair AMPA, ABIPP (Oooh that has a lovely ring to it!!) So watch this space!!