The National Award is the highest honor given at the state level to a photographer who has performed outstanding service to the profession. It is conferred annually by the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association at the Awards Banquet.

Created in 1980, TNPPA created two degrees to honor members for exemplary achievement in both service to our organization and their quality of photography. One is the Service Degree and the second is The Certified Degree. The Certified Degree is earned by entering the State Image Competition and receiving exceptional image scoring, thus earning Image Competition Merits or awards. This degree is awarded to those who show exceptional creative works of art in their imagery and are technical experts in their field of photography which is evident thru their photographic skills. The individual earning this degree is honored with a gold medallion with a green ribbon. Members are encouraged to keep track of their merits for this Degree in the TNPPA Degree Book which can be acquired by contacting the Secretary or Membership Chairperson.

Created in 1980, TNPPA created two degrees to honor members for exemplary achievement in both service to our organization and their quality of photography-the Service and the Certified Degrees. The Service Award has been designed to recognize members who are actively serving within the organization. It is acquired by earning Merits doing work that provides service to our organization and to the photographic community. Those individuals who are honored with this award is bestowed a gold medallion with a yellow ribbon. Members are encouraged to record their merits received for their service in the TNPPA Degree Book which can be acquired thru contacting the Secretary or Membership Chairperson.

The President's Award is bestowed by the current TNPPA President to an individual who has personally assisted the President and contributed in numerous ways to help the President reach their goals and duties during their term.

The Lifetime Award is TNPPA's most Prestigious Award and is granted by the Board of Directors to a long-time member who has given "above and beyond" service to TNPPA over many years. This honor is bestowed by the previous year's winner and is presented with a heartfelt speech about examples of how the honoree's commitment and service has supported TNPPA into the organization it is today and its path for future growth!

The "Mama" Moss Award is presented to someone, other than an active member, who has contributed outstanding service to the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association. It is bestowed at the Awards Banquet.

The Tennessee TOP TEN Award is given to the top ten photographers who have the highest image entry/case average score in the image competition. This is one of TNPPA's most coveted honors.