THE EMBARK PET PHOTOGRAPHY IMAGE CHALLENGES

Award-worthy, jaw-dropping images of your dog

Get your dog international recognition by participating in photographic challenges. Pet photography sessions crafted for submission to a bi-weekly international image competition, celebrating the singular beauty of your dog.

Apply to Participate

This isn’t your average portrait session.

Illustrated tennis ball.

The Embark Image Challenges are for pet parents who know their dog is something special—
and want the world to see it. 

Dramatic portrait of a black dog with a “Top 20" winning badge.

HOW IT WORKS

A Masterpiece, an Experience

  1. Apply for Your Dog’s Chance. Think your pup is a perfect fit? Submit a short application sharing why they’re ideal for one (or more) of the creative challenges listed below.

  2. Star in a Tailored Session. If selected, we’ll plan a photo session inspired by your dog and the chosen challenge. Every session is custom-designed to highlight their personality and meet an standard of artistic excellence.

  3. Compete for international recognition. Select images will go on to compete in the prestigious Professional Photographer’s of America International Photographic Competition and the International Pet Photography Awards, judged on creativity, composition, and impact.

French bulldog interacting with itself though a mirror; includes a “Top 20” winning badge.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Your Emerge Image Challenge Session

  • A Creative Portrait Session. Tailored to fit your dog and the challenge theme.

  • Image Reveal & Selection. After your session, you’ll receive a custom video and curated gallery.

  • One Digital File. Expertly edited and yours to keep and share.

  • $500 Artwork Credit. Apply toward digital files, wall art, albums, or printed pieces.

  • Bragging Rights. Because not every dog gets to star in a juried art submission.

Apply to Participate

The Emerge Image Challenges

Apply for one or more of these
12 Dog Photography Challenges

  • The ideal dog for this challenge will have solid sit, down, & stay commands. Special attention for solid colored dogs.

  • The ideal dog for this challenge will have solid sit, down, & stay commands. Special consideration for dogs comfortable being on safe elevated surfaces (think on a table).

  • The ideal dog for this challenge will have solid sit, down, & stay commands and be comfortable being placed (for example, having legs placed in a “correct” stand)

  • The ideal dog (and human) for this challenge will be up for an adventure which may include a long hike or walk to our location.

  • The ideal dog for this challenge will be a fearless explorer comfortable on raised surfaces. Bonus points for a solid “paws up” behavior.

  • The ideal dog for this challenge will be confident with new people as the camera will be above their head.

  • The ideal dog for this challenge will be comfortable in busy urban environments.

  • The ideal dog for this challenge will love to run! They should have a solid “come” behavior and/or love to retrieve.

  • The ideal dog for this challenge should be a regular head tilter either to novel sounds OR on cue.

  • The ideal dog for this challenge should be comfortable being placed in a specific spot with a solid stay cue.

  • The ideal dog for this challenge should LOVE water! I’m looking for a dog who will happily jump, play, & splash in the water.

  • The ideal dog (or dogs) for this challenge should LOVE to play with each other, toys, you, etc. I’d love to find a dog who loves a particular toy that’s been well loved!

Courtney, smiling, holding a French Bulldog in a sunny outdoor setting.

ATLANTA DOG PHOTOGRAPHER

Courtney Bryson

Multi  award-winning dog photographer, known for creating portraits that don’t just meet merit standards, but move people.

Her honors include International Pet Photographer of the Year – Silver and top placements across Unleashed Global Challenges.
Is your dog next?

Close-up of a brindle-coated dog with a dark nose, gazing directly into the camera while holding a person's hand with its paw, on a grassy background.

$490 Reservation Fee 
A $990 value.

❤️ Scholarship spots are available.

Apply to Participate

Apply To Participate
Close-up of a Boston Terrier dog looking upward, with a blurred background of purple flowers and green foliage.
Illustrated dog treats.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Some challenges will work beautifully with multiple dogs—assuming they're comfortable and relaxed together. If you have a multi-pet household or want more freedom with your images, a Signature Session may offer a better fit.

  • Not at all. Most dogs wear leashes or are in fenced areas. I use editing magic to create off-leash artwork safely. We use long lines for distance when necessary.

  • Absolutely. Your session includes the high-resolution digital file selected by the photographer for the challenge. Additional images are available for purchase.