Awards & Accreditation
The Portrait Masters Awards and Accreditation was launched in 2017. This bi-annual event is the chance for professional portrait photographers around the world to compete for best-in-category and earn accreditation towards levels of mastery.
Photographer List Learn MoreMerit Levels
The accumulation of accreditation points is based on an international judging system. Images are judged on styling, composition, focus, lighting, connection, posing, post production and overall technique and presentation. Each image is judged separately and anonymously by 5 Masters Judges, an average score is calculated, and merits are awarded. Meet the judges and read full criteria on the awards page.
Bronze Merit
High professional standard of technique and communicationSilver Merit
Exemplary execution of technique and visual presentationGold Merit
Excellence in all technical fields with outstanding creative communication and narrativeAccreditation
Portrait Master — It is what we strive for.
This accreditation program, explicitly for portrait photographers of all genres, is a recognition of ‘high professional standard’, not something that awards merit only. Portrait Masters accredited photographers can ensure clients they are working with the true professionals of the industry. Points accumulate each round and never expire.
Associate Level
Master Level
Fellow Level
As each photographer qualifies for Associate, Master, and then Fellow level, their folio is reviewed by the Master Judges.