Throughout our 170-year history, the Royal Photographic Society has grown and evolved alongside the practice of photography. This evolution has been driven by the ambitions of our members, by leaps in technology, and by changes in society.
Today, we recognise there are many new challenges and opportunities, and that photography is as important now as it has ever been.
We are therefore delighted to publish Photography for Everyone, our new strategic plan for the next five years. It has been created over many months in consultation with members, staff, trustees, and volunteers throughout the RPS.
Download your copy here.
Summary
Our Vision:
We envision a world where everyone is inspired, empowered and educated in the art and science of photography.
Our Mission:
We will bring inspiration, creativity and connection, through photography, to people of all ages and backgrounds.
The three pillars of our new strategy are ‘Inspire’, ‘Create’ and ‘Connect’. Beneath each pillar we will deliver seven separate programmes, a total of 21. Underpinning each programme are five aims:
- Inclusion
- Environmental and Social Responsibility
- Member Participation
- Financial Sustainability
- Profile Raising
Our strategy cherishes existing and much-loved features of RPS membership, such as Distinctions (which enjoy worldwide respect); Exhibitions (including the International Photography Exhibition, now in its 163rd edition); the award-winning RPS Journal; RPS Awards; and our far-reaching Education programmes.
However, we are determined to go much further. We plan to deliver brand-new initiatives, such as a community for young photographers; and the creation of the UK’s first Photographer Laureate. We will explore how photography impacts mental health and wellbeing and develop new ways of working in this area. We will collaborate with other photography organisations to provide practical support and recognition for professional photographers; taking a lead on issues such as environmental and social responsibility and explaining the fascinating science behind new imaging technologies.
The RPS is a worldwide community of thousands of people who love photography and who believe in its importance as an artistic, scientific and expressive medium. Our Regional hubs, international Chapters and specialist Groups are all led by volunteers, working with the staff team. Many eminent photographers also volunteer to help us with Distinctions assessments, advice, talks and mentorship. This spirit of generosity has been the hallmark of the RPS since its foundation.
Several of the new programmes will need additional funding including some of the most ambitious proposals, such as a new network for children and young people, and the mental health and wellbeing projects. These could have a lasting impact on thousands of people, and on the practice of photography itself.
We hope you will join us on the photographic journey ahead, and bring Photography for Everyone to life. If you are willing to help us to find this funding or would like to volunteer to support these new programmes, please get in touch or visit our Support Us page. We would love to hear from you.