Licentiateship of the BIPP

I am delighted to report that my panel of 20 images has qualified for Licentiate status with the BIPP - the British Institute of Professional Photographers. I am over the moon but also gobsmacked as I did not really think I would get it.

The experience was quite nerve-wracking. I drove to Darlington, to the MPA offices where the assessment was to take place and can honestly say I have never been as nervous since I took my driving test. I was shaking. I delivered my portfolio case and sat in the downstairs office whilst the judges assessed my work - it seemed to take an absolute age but I am sure it was probably only a few minutes.

Finally, I was called upstairs for the verdict. I was introduced to a roomful of men, most of whose names I promptly forgot and then noticed they were all smiling and came forward to congratulate me. It still hadn’t registered. You mean I passed? I enquired, stupidly. “With flying colours” came the reply. They then explained that the panel was being nominated for the Licentiate Panel of the Year - the Peter Gudgeon Award - and Eric Jenkins, head of Qualifications, suggested I enter for the Art of Science category at the upcoming British Professional Photographty Awards.

I still could hardly believe what they were saying and drove back home over the Pennines on cloud nine.

I am absolutely indebted to Ray Lowe FBIPP for his mentorship - for kicking me up the backside to make me go for it and for his unending support and sound advice. Thank you Ray - I am very grateful.

More information about planning a Licentiate panel and the images from my successful Licentiate panel can be seen here.