About The IAFP
The International Association for Photographers - helping members worldwide
Our History: From NPS to IAFP
The International Association for Photographers (IAFP) is the strategic evolution of The National Photographic Society (NPS). Our story began in the UK in 2008 when a dedicated group of professional photographers recognized a need for a more dynamic and relevant organization—one that could truly represent their interests in a rapidly changing industry. They were motivated to create a society focused on providing practical support, ethical standards, and modern qualifications that met the real-world demands of photography.
Exponential Growth and Global Reach
Rapid Expansion
The model proved successful. The NPS quickly outgrew its UK origins, experiencing rapid and widespread growth driven by word-of-mouth and the high value members found in its offerings.
Worldwide Membership
Today, the IAFP boasts a truly global membership. Professionals from every corner of the world—including the USA, Australia, the Falkland Islands, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka—have joined our community. This significant international scope affirmed that our mission resonated far beyond national borders.
The Strategic Rebrand
To accurately reflect our diverse and worldwide membership, the organization formally expanded and rebranded as the International Association for Photographers (IAFP). This change was not just a name change; it was a commitment to a global framework while retaining the core values that spurred our founding: we are an association governed by and dedicated to photographers, ensuring our focus remains firmly on the practitioner.
Our Enduring Commitment to Education
Even as we embrace our global identity, we have maintained a crucial link to our history. The successful and highly-regarded NPS qualification program has been retained and integrated within the IAFP framework. These qualifications have been instrumental in raising the professional standards of countless photographers. We ensure current members can smoothly continue their certification pathways and that future members can still pursue these established, benchmarked achievements.
Our Mission: By Photographers, For Photographers
At our core, the IAFP is a supportive community built to foster excellence. Our mission is to:
Elevate Professional Standards
We provide a robust framework for professional development, ethical practice, and recognition through our established qualification and accreditation programs.
Advocate for Our Members
We work to protect the rights and interests of photographers globally, ensuring their work is respected and valued.
Connect the Community
We offer a platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration, keeping our members at the forefront of industry trends.
The IAFP is proud to be the global voice for professional photographers, connecting a diverse community united by a passion for the craft and a commitment to professionalism.
What We Offer
The International Association for Photographers (The IAFP) exists to provide information, help, and advice to anyone connected to the photographic industry, and is run solely by photographers. Whether you are a full-time professional or a part-time enthusiast, you will find something here.
Membership brings a host of advantages, including:
- Qualification levels to enhance your credibility
- Custom-made website (coming soon)
- Training courses
- Free blog
- Free member profile
- Free photo galleries
- Access to The Coaching Academy
- Access to our 'Ask the experts' section
- Discounts with many leading suppliers in the photographic industry
- Free hosting for your website and blog
- And more…
Check out our benefits page to find out more.
Voices from Our Community
Discover what photographers worldwide are saying about their IAFP experience, click each one to read more
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