Images of Distinction (IOD) is the preeminent image competition for members of the American Society of Photographers. The inaugural competition was held in March of 2021, and was only open to ASP members. Since its inception, the competition has continued to grow and adapt to changes within the photographic competition world.

The competition is structured around two rounds of competition. Round 1 is held in March of each year, and is open to all interested competitors (including non-ASP members). Following the format of the original IOD, images are judged the first day of Round 1, and are critiqued by commentary panel on the second day. Images scoring an 80 or above receive a Seal of Approval*, and images scoring an 85 or above receive a Seal of Distinction. 

Round 2 is held in September of each year, and is open to ASP members only. All Gold, Silver and Bronze Medallion winners and District Medal winners are selected from IOD entries and State Elite winners. By competing in Images of Distinction, ASP members can also earn points toward the ASP Photographic Artistry Award.

*Please consult with the Round 2 competition rules below, to learn how unbroken sealed images have a path forward to Round 2.