The Royal Photographic Society was founded in 1853 'to promote the Art and Science of Photography', a mission it continues to this day. It has a Royal Charter and is an Educational Charity with 10,000 members. Membership is open to everyone interested in photography in the UK and throughout the world, be they amateur or professional, artist or scientist, young or old. Members are invited to take up the challenge of The Society’s Distinctions. The three levels are Licentiateship, Associateship, and Fellowship and have their knowledge and practical abilities recognised. Through the active online community and the Regional and Special Interest Group events members can share, learn and develop their technical, visual and creative skills. Regions and Groups have meetings, exhibitions and competitions and publish their own newsletters and magazines.