From the Professional Photographers of Canada ( PPOC ) explaining Accreditation

An Accreditation is achieved by submitting ten images in a chosen category to a PPOC Board of Review. This peer-reviewed program challenges candidates to demonstrate their capability of delivering exceptional quality photography in a chosen category. In assessing Accreditation Submissions, the judges consider the following criteria: Impact, Creativity, Style, Composition, Presentation, Colour Balance, Centre of Interest, Lighting, Subject Matter, Quality, Technique, and Storytelling. Once a member has earned an Accreditation and upgraded to PPOC Accredited Member they can use the title 'Accredited Professional Photographer'.

www.PPOC.ca

Presently hold 13 Accreditations: Portraiture, Studio Portrait, Animals, Botanical, Fine Art / Photo Decor, Image Manipulation, Macro and Micro, Nature, Night, Ornithology / Bird, Pictorial / Scenic, Stock and Wildlife

Studio Portrait


Ten (10) images of ten (10) different subjects, with ten (10) different poses and ten (10) differentstudio sets. Photographer must demonstrate creative and technical expertise in use ofbackgrounds, setups, and lighting. Note that ten (10) different groups and individuals with thesame background, poses and lighting will not be accepted. Must include one group of 3 or 4 more

A dramatic fashion portrait in black attire against a dark background with moody lighting.
Portrait of a person with vibrant red hair wearing a dark turtleneck against a black background.
Elegant couple in formal wear, one in white dress and one in black suit, embracing against white background.
Dramatic portrait with blue lighting of a performer in a hat against a dark red background.
Intimate portrait of a couple against teal background with dramatic lighting.
Person in hat and denim holding colorful flowers against brown backdrop.
Artistic portrait with purple and red lighting creating a neon atmosphere.
Family portrait with baby in black and white tones against light background.
Person pulling white turtleneck sweater up to cover face against white background.
Portrait with long dark curly hair wearing taupe hoodie against black background.

Portrait


Ten (10) images of ten (10) different subjects showing ten (10) different poses from ten (10) different photo sessions and ten (10) different locations and have enough variety in the submission to show the photographer’s creative and technical ability. Head and shoulders, 3/4 and full-length poses must be shown. Singles, couples (2 people), groups (3 or more people), children (aged 12 and under), adults, business portraits, both indoors and outdoors, must be represented in the general class. Four (4) images must be outdoor portraits and four (4) images must be indoor portraits. The remaining two (2) images can be from either outdoors or indoors. No wedding portraits or animal portraits are accepted in the general portrait class.

Portrait of someone in a vintage-style turquoise floral dress against a wooden backdrop.
Muscular shirtless bodybuilder posing against dark background showing defined physique.
Two people in flowy dresses sitting together in a sunny meadow with flowers.
Winter portrait of someone in dark clothing with snowy forest backdrop.
Portrait of someone wearing olive jacket and white top against brown background.
Professional headshot of senior man in plaid shirt and dark jacket against grey background.
Person in white dress standing among flowers in an outdoor garden setting.
Black and white profile portrait showing dramatic side lighting against dark background.
A family poses together on a tree-lined path during autumn.
Studio portrait against grey background featuring black button-up shirt and red shorts.

Image Manipulation


Ten (10) before and ten (10) after examples of images that have been manipulated and enhanced.

Samples should demonstrate the potential of computer manipulation. Examples should include at

least five (5) of the following:

1. Removing people, objects or color from a photograph

2. Adding people, objects or color to an image

3. Major restoration of damaged images

4. Combining several elements from more than two images

5. Moving objects within a photograph

6. Cloning objects.

Figure in gray knit hooded sweater against brick wall background.
Person wearing chunky gray knit hooded sweater in moody indoor lighting.
Series of silhouetted wagon wheels on horizon line against desert landscape.
Old wagon wheel silhouetted against dramatic orange sunset sky in prairie field.
Masked figure wearing ornate gold masquerade mask with feather detail.
Close up of ornate gold masquerade mask against dark background.
Three silhouette images show a romantic couple in a field at sunset with dramatic cloud formations.
A couple embraces in an open field with dramatic storm clouds and sunlight in the background.
Solitary tree silhouetted against dark sky with green northern lights.
A lone tree silhouette against a vibrant night sky with green aurora borealis.
Professional headshot of a gentleman in business attire with glasses against neutral background.
Business portrait of gentleman wearing glasses and patterned tie against white background.
Wedding photo montage with sparkler text and purple heart smoke effect.
Romantic couple with sparkler lights spelling I heart U against purple smoke effect.
Collage of night sky, full moon, and illuminated modern building exterior.
Modern glass building illuminated at night under full moon and starry sky.
A close-up shot of a couple in elegant evening wear during a special occasion.
A couple in formal attire share an intimate moment at an evening event.
Multiple versions of a family photo showing different editing stages against a brick background.
A family portrait against a brick wall with a child seated on a wooden stool.

Macro and Micro Photography


Submit ten (10) images of ten (10) different subjects using special techniques and equipment that show the photographer has an understanding of the concept of Macro and/or Micro Photography. At least 2 of the 10 images must be Micro Photography.
Note: Macro photography is defined as showing a subject in a 1:1 magnification as compared to their actual size. On a 35mm sensor, a 35mm subject should encompass the entire sensor. RAW files may be requested. Microphotography shows the subject in a greater than 1:1 magnification. For Microphotography, special equipment including but not limited to Microscopes may be used.

A good understanding of lighting and software techniques used to enhance this type of photography must be demonstrated.

Close-up of a honey bee approaching delicate white blossoms against a soft background.
Macro shot of guitar fretboard showing metal frets and strings in sharp detail.
Detailed close-up of an unfurling bright green fern frond against a dark background.
High-speed photograph of a purple liquid droplet splashing upward against black background.
Close-up of a medical syringe with a single drop forming at the needle tip.
Ladybug perched on a tall blade of grass against a blurred green background.
Close up macro shot of text printed on paper showing partial words and phrases.
Metallic green beetle with iridescent shell resting on weathered wood surface.
Single match stick burning with bright orange flame against dark background.
Abstract pattern of red leaf veins creating a mosaic-like texture.

Ornithology (Birds)


Wildlife Accreditation guidelines from the PPOC website www.ppoc.ca\


Produce 10 images of 10 different subjects, from 10 different photo sessions on 10 different occasions, and have enough variety in the submission to show the photographer's creative and technical ability. Images should show at least three of either birds in flight, flocks of migrating birds, at the nest, with their young, and in the environment they live in, close-ups and could include backyard/garden birds. These images should be a cut above in their ability to distinguish the features of the birds and their environment.

Canada goose swimming in calm water with golden reeds reflecting in background.
Close-up of great horned owl's face showing intense yellow eyes and feathered ear tufts.
Small brown bird perched on barbed wire fence in soft focus field.
Duck swimming among tall reeds in blue water.
Bird of prey with wings spread wide preparing to land on grassy field.
Bird perched on cattail reed in wetland with green background.
A graceful heron stands in calm waters with mountains visible in the misty background.
Canada geese and goslings walking through tall cattails near a grassy shore.
Baby birds nestled together in a tree nest with blue sky visible through the leaves.
A duck preens its feathers while floating on dark blue rippling water.

Wildlife

Wildlife Accreditation guidelines from the PPOC website www.ppoc.ca

Ten (10) images of ten (10) different wild animal made in 10 different situations, on ten (10) different occasions. Wildlife refers to any animal that is free to roam and include mammals, birds, reptile and amphibians, rodents, marine and land animals. Animals photographed in zoos or fenced in areas do not qualify. Images should include three (3) environmental images where the animal is shown as part of a landscape and three (3) close-up images where the animal is captured in either a head and shoulder, 3/4 or full length pose. The other four (4) images may include a combination of environmental and portrait images. You may also include a maximum of two (2) images that show details of the animals (i.e. eyes, spots, stripes, etc.). Motion studies are also permitted to a maximum of two (2) images.

A small primate peeks through dense foliage in its natural habitat.
Three deer stand alert in a snowy winter field during golden hour.
A snowy owl perches on a wooden post against a pale sky background.
A garter snake coils through marsh grass in wetland habitat.
Lily pads float on dark water with red and green leaves creating natural contrast.
Seals lounge together on a small ice floe in green-tinted waters.
A grey heron perched on top of an evergreen tree against a bright blue sky.
A furry marmot sits alert on rocky ground with its tail curved behind it.
A brown frog rests on a mossy rock surface.
Close-up portrait of a bald eagle with white head feathers and yellow beak against blurred green background.

Animals

Animal Accreditation category description from the PPOC website www.ppoc.ca

Ten (10) images of ten (10) different types of animals taken on ten (10) different sessions. This may include animals such as bears, lions, giraffes, birds, horses, elephants, deer, foxes, chipmunks, tigers, domestic cats, turtles, fish, snails, gorillas, dogs and any other distinctly different animals. This is a general animals category and the judges are looking for variety so only include one of the same type, i.e. one bird, one horse, one bear, etc. May include wild, farm or domesticated animals, in singles, pairs or group (3 or more). Only one (1) photograph may be of a group of animals. Must include six (6) images of the entire animal and two (2) environmental images in an appropriate setting. The two (2) remaining images may be of either entire animals, environmental, headshots or abstract images of a body part. May be taken indoors or outdoors.

Close-up of a gecko's face showing textured skin and striking blue eye.
Abstract pattern of scattered blue and white jellyfish floating in dark water.
Close-up portrait of a brown horse's face against a blue sky background.
Extreme close-up of a snake's face showing detailed scales and eye.
Dog exploring in deep snow near a small evergreen tree.
Lone bison standing on a hilltop against a mountainous backdrop.
Buck with large antlers standing in autumn brush during golden hour.
Ground squirrel perched on a rock with blurred mountain background.
Silhouette of a bird perched on wooden post with snow-capped mountains in distance.
Red fox sitting alert in tall dried grass.

Botanical

Botanical Accreditation category description from the PPOC website www.ppoc.ca

Ten (10) images of ten (10) different types of plants in ten (10) different settings. Botanical photography is the accurate and/or beautiful images of plant life in both the natural and laboratory environments. Subjects consist of flowering and non-flowering plants, native or cultivated, such as trees, shrubs, herbs, fungi, ferns, mosses and liverworts, lichens, club mosses, horsetails and algae. Parts of plants such as flowers, fruits, leaves, stems, berries may be photographed, as well as microscopic grains of pollen, spores, and the like.

Close-up of a spiky blue thistle flower head in full bloom.
Macro shot of a pink and green succulent plant with spiral petal pattern.
Delicate blue forget-me-not flowers with yellow centers bloom alongside small purple buds against a dark background.
Single white daisy flower with vibrant yellow center captured in sharp detail against dark background.
Curled fern frond unfurling against bright green background showing delicate new growth.
Sepia-toned flower petals backlit in dramatic lighting showing intricate details and texture.
Macro view of autumn leaf showing detailed veins and patterns in red, green, and gold colors.
Close-up of purple and white pansy flower with water droplets and dramatic center markings.
Macro photograph of peach-colored flower petals showing soft textural details and stamen.
Yellow dandelion flower bud opening with spiky green sepals against blurred background.

Pictorial / Scenic

Accreditation category description from the PPOC website www.ppoc.ca

Ten (10) images of ten (10) different scenes on ten (10) different occasions that illustrate the natural and man-made geographical features relating to our environment. Landscapes, seascapes, mountains, aerials, city skylines are acceptable. Flowers are not accepted in this category. All images must be a “cut above” in their impact and visual interest.

Dramatic sunset over water with vibrant orange and red clouds reflecting on the ocean surface.
Turquoise waterfall cascading over rocky cliff formation with long exposure creating smooth water effect.
A cascading waterfall flows through a stone archway surrounded by lush green foliage in a tranquil forest setting.
Vibrant yellow canola field stretches to the horizon under a bright blue sky with puffy white clouds.
Twisted weathered tree trunk stands against dramatic mountain backdrop with cloudy sky.
Golden aspen trees glow in autumn sunlight beneath stormy mountain skies.
Misty mountain lake reflects evergreen forest and snow-dusted hills in calm waters.
Tall grass silhouettes against a golden sunset sky creating a serene natural backdrop.
Dramatic rocky cliff face towers above stormy ocean waves under dark clouds.
Gothic church spires rise above autumn foliage in warm evening light.

Fine Art / Photo Decor

Accreditation category description from the PPOC website www.ppoc.ca

(10) images of ten (10) different subjects taken in ten (10) different situations. Fine art images may consist of unusual images, individual images or a series of images. The range of styles and treatments varies greatly, from the classic B/W scenes to more unconventional images. In fact, conventional beauty, formal design and familiar subjects are often not components of fine art images and can include painterly effects, soft-focus, journalistic, bizarre and erotic images and other unconventional approaches. Fine art images are usually sold to individual collectors, museums and business clients. Photo Decor is usually the term used to designate a print hung to decorate a room, whether in a private home, an institution, a corporate boardroom, a gallery, etc.
All images must be a “cut above” in their impact and visual interest.

Foggy path illuminated by streetlamps through bare trees at night.
Vivid pink daisy flower with yellow center isolated on black background.
Dramatic golden sunset silhouettes evergreen trees against warm orange sky as sun rays pierce through forest.
Close-up macro shot of a delicate dandelion seed head with white fluffy seeds against dark background.
Extreme close-up of orange lily stamens with soft pink background showing pollen detail.
Stunning view of the Milky Way galaxy stretching across dark night sky with stars twinkling.
Abstract black and white pattern of water droplets creating symmetrical splash formation.
Vibrant kaleidoscope pattern featuring orange and yellow light forming lotus-like shape with blue edges.
Silhouette of lone tree against starry night sky with red aurora borealis in background.
Four grain silos silhouetted against orange sunset sky on prairie horizon.

Night Photography

Accreditation category description from the PPOC website www.ppoc.ca

Requires the photographer to have an understanding and knowledge of photography done during the night. “Night” is defined as a period of darkness or partial darkness that occurs after sunset and before sunrise. Ten (10) images, of ten different scenes, on ten different occasions that illustrates an expertise in photographing subjects using extended exposures in low light. The photographer must demonstrate the ability to balance different sources of man- made and naturally occurring light sources, in a minimum of two (2) architectural subjects. The photographer should present a variety of images such as moonscapes, star trails, astrophotography, Aurora Borealis (northern lights), street scenes, city skylines, fireworks, lightning, and “painting with light” images.

Long exposure light painting creates glowing red spiral tube effect reflecting on dark surface.
Blood moon glows bright red against black night sky during lunar eclipse.
Silhouette of trees against a golden sunset sky reflected in calm water.
Vintage military aircraft illuminated at night on an airfield.
Person standing on dock watching northern lights reflect over still water.
Clear night sky showing the Milky Way galaxy with stars shimmering.
Teepee frame silhouetted against dramatic orange sunset sky.
Historic clock tower building with illuminated face against purple dusk sky.
Small white church with steeple against moody winter sky.
Vibrant orange and pink sunset over silhouetted hillside and water.

Stock Photography

Accreditation category description from the PPOC website www.ppoc.ca

Ten (10) images of ten (10) different subjects made in ten (10) different situations on ten (10) different occasions. A stock photograph refers to a photograph that has already been produced, either on assignment or on speculation, that can now be licensed (leased) to a client. Stock photographers may be generalists, photographing many different subjects (i.e. barns, trees, dogs, etc.) and/or categories (i.e. agriculture, industrial, lifestyles, etc.); or they may be specialists dealing with only one or a few specific subjects or categories of photography. Photographic quality must be above average.

Abandoned barn silhouette with northern lights glowing green in night sky.
Snowy winter landscape with mountains and forest from aerial view.
Rocky beach at sunset with dramatic clouds and sunbeams reflecting on the water's surface.
Center pivot irrigation system in a vast green field against cloudy sky.
Full moon glowing bright against dark night sky.
Mossy tree stump covered in ferns in a lush forest setting.
Golden wheat field stretches to horizon under deep blue dusk sky.
War memorial statue silhouetted against colorful sunset sky.
Row of industrial tank cars on parallel railway tracks.
Wind turbines line up along green hillside with mountain backdrop.

Nature Photography

Accreditation category description from the PPOC website www.ppoc.ca

Ten (10) images of ten (10) different subjects in ten (10) different situations on ten (10) different occasions. Nature photography encompasses all that is natural, including plants, animals and landscapes. It does not however, include man made subjects, landscapes that have been modified by man, domesticated animals or plants, or any situation where the “hand of man” is evident. All images must be a “cut above” in their impact and visual interest.

Small bird perched on cattail reed in wetland setting.
Cracked dry earth pattern extending to horizon shows effects of severe drought.
A long-necked white bird hovers in flight against a blurred green background.
Three deer stand silhouetted on a snowy ridge against a cloudy blue sky.
A whale's tail fin emerges from dark blue ocean waters.
Ocean waves crash against a rocky outcrop creating a dramatic splash.
A towering waterfall cascades down steep cliffs into a turquoise glacial lake.
A massive glacier with blue ice flows between mountains in a fjord landscape.
An eagle perches atop a tall evergreen tree against a blue sky.
A lone tree silhouetted against a pastel sunset sky stands in an empty field.

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