You get an electronic certificate acknowledging your success and the satisfaction of knowing that you have achieved a particular standard of work. However, the most significant advantage of the Distinctions programme is that it encourages photographers to strive for higher standards of excellence and develop their photographic skills. You can also use the letters associated with the relevant Distinction after your name - ie LOPS, AOPS or FOPS. The award of a Certificate of Merit does not include the right to use any letters after the photographer's name.