FIAP and FIAP Distinctions

The Federation International de L’ Art Photographique (FIAP) is an umbrella organisation for recreational photography across the world. It represents some 76 different countries and the PSNZ is its representative for New Zealand. The FIAP is based in Paris and holds biennial Congresses in different countries – similar to PSNZ Conventions. The PSNZ usually has delegates attending these Congresses who present the unique New Zealand viewpoint.

The FIAP - which does not provide for individual membership - also formally recognises about 150 International salons annually which can count towards the awarding of FIAP distinctions. The gaining of FIAP distinctions is normally accepted as being a natural progression for PSNZ members who have been successful in gaining PSNZ honours and are looking for a further challenge on the wider world stage.

AFIAP (Artiste Federation Internationale de L’ Art Photographique)

The first FIAP distinction is the AFIAP (Artiste Federation Internationale de L’ Art Photographique). To qualify for this distinction a photographer must have a FIAP Photographer's Life Card and is required to have had success in Salons conducted under FIAP patronage for at least one year. The candidate must have at least 30 acceptances at a minimum of 10 different FIAP salons, across a minimum of five different countries and with at least 10 different images. There is also a PSNZ requirement for a candidate to be a PSNZ member, have had five or more acceptances at PSNZ National Salons (NATEX) and make available – over time - at least three of their best images to the PSNZ for FIAP Biennials and/or Trans-Tasman and/or other international events.

EFIAP (Excellence Federation Internationale de L’ Art Photographique)

The second FIAP distinction is the EFIAP (Excellence Federation Internationale de L’ Art Photographique). This is awarded to a holder of an AFIAP (for at last one year) who has had at least 150 acceptances at a minimum 30 different Salons conducted under FIAP patronage, across a minimum of fifteen different countries and with at least 50 different images. After achieving an EFIAP there are also further levels which recognize continuing salon successes

MFIAP (Master Federation Internationale de L’ Art Photographique)

There is a third level – that of MFIAP (Master Federation Internationale de L’ Art Photographique) - which holders of an EFIAP may aspire to. It requires the submission of a 20 print portfolio for evaluation by the FIAP Directory Board and is a very difficult achievement – only one member of the PSNZ has ever qualified.

Once awarded, a certificate and a lapel pin are issued and the successful candidates may use the appropriate letters after their name for the rest of their lives.

The FIAP distinction rules and forms, as well as the application form for a FIAP Photographer's Life Card can be obtained from Brian Cudby, who is the PSNZ Liaison Officer for FIAP (Brian Cudby, brian-pat.cudby@xtra.co.nz ). PSNZ recommendations for AFIAP and EFIAP distinctions are forwarded for consideration annually on or about 01 September.

Consolidated lists of approved Salons conducted under FIAP patronage are published two or three times a year. They can all be accessed by going to the FIAP website http://www.fiap.net – click the British flag (for English language), then the “Salon” button and then the “list of Salons with FIAP Patronage” button

A list of entry forms for FIAP salons can be found here.

For further information please contact Brian Cudby