THE MERIT IMAGE CHALLENGES

Award-worthy, jaw-dropping images of your dog

Get your dog international recognition by participating in photographic challenges. Portrait photography sessions crafted for submission to international image competitions, celebrating the singular beauty of your dog.

This isn’t your average portrait session.

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

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 PPA’s Merit Image criteria.

  3. Compete for international recognition. Select images go on to compete in the prestigious International Photographic Competition, judged on creativity, composition, and impact.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Your Merit 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.

  • Two Digital Files. Expertly edited and yours to keep and share.

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

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

The Merit Image Challenges

Apply for one or more of these 11 Dog Photography Challenges

  • Use a natural or man-made frame to direct attention to your subject. The ideal dog for Through the Frame will have a solid stay command and be comfortable around novel items.

  • Incorporate a reflection into your image. Pay attention to symmetry, balance, and clarity while ensuring your subject remains the focal point. The ideal dog for Reflection Perfection will have a solid stay command and be comfortable being positioned.

  • Capture your subject bathed in golden hour light. Utilize backlighting to create a glowing rim around your subject, and ensure the camera-facing side is evenly illuminated to highlight the warmth of the scene.

  • Create a dynamic action shot. Capture your subject in motion—running, jumping, or playing. The ideal dog for Motion Mastery will be high energy and happy to repeat actions.

  • Capture a serene, intimate moment that tells a story. Focus on the emotional connection between your subject and their environment or companion, with soft, natural lighting to enhance the mood. The ideal dog (or dogs!) will have a down stay command. Bonus points for a pout or head down behavior.

  • Experiment with unusual camera angles to create a fresh and engaging composition. Shoot from above, below, or even through an object to bring a unique perspective to your image.

  • Feature your subject in a stunning outdoor setting, making the landscape a key supporting element. The ideal dog for The Great Outdoors will love being outdoors, hiking, or other outdoor activities.

  • Create an image with minimal distractions, using negative space to emphasize your subject. The ideal dog for The Minimalist will be solid colored or very uniquely marked.

  • Incorporate water as a key element in your image. The ideal dog for Water Works will LOVE water and be happy to play and explore in water.

  • Photograph your subject in a cityscape or urban environment. The ideal Urban Edge dog will be comfortable in busy city environments.

  • Use light and shadow to create drama and mood in your image.

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’s global Challenges. Is your dog next?

Apply to Participate

$790 Reservation Fee 
A $1290 value.

❤️ Scholarship spots are available.

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.

  • Absolutely. Your session includes 2 high-resolution digital files of your choice. Additional images are available for purchase.