AIPP Accredited Member of the Australian Institute of Professional Photography

By Darren Stones

I recently applied to become an AIPP Accredtited Member of the Australian Institute of Professional Photography. In doing so, I had to meet various criteria, and did so successfully.

Career development
I wish to further develop my professional photographic knowledge and business skills, and view membership of the AIPP as an exciting new opportunity. The photography industry is constantly changing, and it's important that clients are well serviced by professionals.

Portfolio assessment
I was required to submit a 20-image portfolio for professional assessment as part of my application. Choosing the 20 images was an enjoyable and challenging task, as I had initially selected 58 images made in the last 24 months.

Surfing at Jan Juc, Victoria
Photo by Darren Stones

Activities and awards
The AIPP conducts various activities for members, including organising its annual photographic awards. I'm looking forward to participating and networking with fellow professionals.

From the AIPP site
"The AIPP is Australia's leading membership body for the photography community. Supporting professional photographers at all stages of their careers and enabling them to become accredited to the photographic organisation that is the AIPP."

An Accredited Professional Photographer:

• Is Assessed and Proven – Accredited members are judged by an assessment panel to ensure that each accredited member achieves and maintains an expected level of craftsmanship
• Is Professional - operates a registered business
• Is Professional - has liability insurance, as appropriate to their business
• Is Professional – agrees to the AIPP Code of Ethics and AIPP Terms and Conditions of Membership
• Is Professional – agrees to abide by the AIPP Accredited Membership Business Requirements
• Is Experienced – every Accredited Member has a minimum of two years industry experience or has completed a minimum two year photographic program before applying for Accreditation
• Is Experienced – Has the skill, creativity, style and ability to get the job done on time and on budget
• Never Stops Learning – through the AIPP Continuous Professional Development (CPD) program, all Accredited Members must take part in workshops and seminars throughout each year to ensure they continue to develop along with the industry

Updated May 2013:
I'm no longer a member of the Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP), however I am a member of the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA).