We provide help, guidance and up-to-date legal and business information. We inform members of their rights and the rights of others who they may come into contact with during their work.

We provide paperwork and templates. Members can get guidance on issues with contracts, non-payment, copyright and usage and, if required, contact our retained specialist lawyers at a subsidised rate.

We publish the acclaimed and respected book, Beyond The Lens, which is included in the syllabus of all our affiliated college/university courses (BTEC or Degree). We also run workshops and seminars for students, assistants and for professional photographers, as well as portfolio critiques.

We have a dedicated website for our Student Members, with a forum and on-line critiques. We also work closely with the lecturers that run the courses that are affiliated to the AOP.

We have worked hard over many years to protect photographers' rights. We lobby, influence and are regularly asked by those who legislate (in UK Government and the EU), to inform them of photographers' concerns and requirements.

Our most recent success was working with the photographic community to secure the exclusion of Clause 43 from the Digital Economy Act and we are currently working on solutions to the problem of Orphan Works.

We run some of the most prestigious and influential Awards in the industry and have done so for more than 30 years. To be chosen for the Photographers Awards' Exhibition and Book is still seen as one of the top accolades possible for any professional photographer despite there being so many competitions today!

We also run awards for Assistants and Students, again at a level not equaled elsewhere. Non-members can enter the Open Awards, which is open to professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Our Online Gallery showcases solo and group exhibitions from AOP Members. We also have a permanent photographic print collection where prints are available to buy online as limited edition prints.

Image Magazine has been published by the Association since 1981 and is currently published on a bi-monthly basis for the benefit of members and subscribers. 'Image' is produced for all photographers but with the professional in mind, showcasing the very best photographers and their work.