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.
Global Reach
Rapid Expansion
The model proved successful. The NPS expanded beyond its UK origins, building an international membership through practical support, ethical standards, and qualifications valued by working photographers.
Worldwide Membership
Today, The IAFP has members in many countries — including the USA, Australia, the Falkland Islands, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka. This international scope reflects a mission that resonates 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, part-time, or building your skills alongside other commitments, you will find support here.
Membership includes access to benefits such as:
- Recognised qualification pathways and post-nominals (e.g. LNPS, ANPS, FNPS)
- IAFP Signature Website Collection (Standard) and Custom Brand-Led Website Design (Professional)
- Website and blog hosting on eligible tiers
- Free member profile, gallery, and blog listing on our website
- Monthly photography competitions
- IAFP Academy (Professional)
- Ask the Experts and mentoring support
- Industry partner discounts on software, insurance, and equipment
- Arbitration and professional services (Professional)
- And more…
Check out our benefits page to find out more.
"The gold standard for photographic associations. No doubt about it. Highly recommend."
Explore related resources
Learn more about qualifications, member support, and community opportunities.
Voices from Our Community
Discover what photographers worldwide are saying about their IAFP experience, click each one to read more
"Thank you for all the help and support whilst I went from amateur to professional. I love my new website you've done and the other stuff especially the business advice was amazing. Thank you!"