Diploma Introduction

Diploma Introduction

WCC Diploma awards are based upon a similar and highly
successful system that Paignton CC have been running for
some 30 years and we acknowledge the importance of their
help and input in establishing our scheme.
The purpose of the Diploma
To offer Club members a series of achievable goals to
improve their photography, express themselves and gain
confidence. The scheme also offers 'progression', or in other
words, a way of improvement, through advice and peer
review.

Those who wish to gain photographic skills at a foundation
level can undertake the General Diploma, while more experienced members who would like to
develop their skills can work towards a Specialised Diploma in a particular genre.
Members can also take their expertise to a higher level if they wish by doing an Advanced
Specialised Diploma. A wide range of Specialised genres is available to choose from and after
completing one Diploma topic, members may want to hone their skills in another area.

Recognition - WCC 'Distinction'
Following a successful submission of work, a WCC member is entitled to use 'letters' after their
name as recognition of their success. For example, Mike Rudge WGDP, Barrie Glover WSDP
or Andrea Barrington WSDP. The WCC Distinction 'letters' work like this:
WGDP = Worcestershire General Diploma in Photography
WSDP = Worcestershire Specialised Diploma in Photography
WASDP = Worcestershire Advanced Specialist Diploma in Photography
When people accumulate more than one Specialist Diploma we add a number suffix such as
WSDP3.

Beyond the WCC Diploma
Whilst the WCC Diploma Awards are not in any way part of the Distinctions offered by the
RPS, PAGB or similar organisations, they can be regarded as a useful preparation for
members who want to put their work forward to such schemes.