Getting Down to Dog-Level: My Entry for the “Get Down” Challenge

📸 This round of the pet photography challenge was all about getting low — literally. The theme was “Get Down,” encouraging us to photograph our dogs from their eye-level perspective. It’s a fun technical challenge and such a great way to really step into their world 🐾 .

🌊 Session One: Pearl & Hazy Hit the Beach

For my first idea, I headed to a bayside beach with my friend and her two Australian Cattle Dogs, Pearl and Hazy. Pearl is a total frisbee and ball fanatic 🎾, while Hazy… well, Hazy prefers to play keep-away from Pearl more than anything else 😆.

I planned the shoot around a low tide at golden hour. We set up on a sandbar where I could stay low without getting too soaked, and I even brought a waterproof “blanket” to protect my camera (she’s only 8 months old and very loved! 🥹 ).

We threw the frisbee over and over — and over — while I laid on the sandbar, capturing splash after splash. Pearl and Hazy had the time of their lives, and I left drenched and grinning like mad 😄. It was one of those joyful sessions you just don’t want to end.

“Frisbee? Check. Splash? Check. Total joy? Double check.”

🌅 Session Two: Lexie on the Trail

For the second shoot, my husband and I took our girl Lexie, the Australian Shepherd extraordinaire, to a nearby trail just before sunset 🌲.

Lexie is... extremely food motivated 🍖. A little too motivated, maybe. She was laser-focused on my husband (aka the treat guy), but eventually — with enough snacks and patience — we captured a perfect moment. Her soft expression and that signature smile made it all worth it 💛.

“Golden hour. Soft smile. My heart in dog form.”

The Tough Choice

I went back and forth trying to choose between the two final images. Lexie’s photo met the brief perfectly — it was low to the ground and from her point of view. But I worried it might look too similar to other submissions. And honestly? I wasn’t sure if I loved it so much just because she’s my girl 🥹.

Pearl’s photo had energy, color, splash, reflection, and that dreamy pastel sky — but was I low enough? That was the big question.

In the end, I submitted Pearl’s image, hoping its dynamic nature would help it stand out 🐕💦.

The judges loved the action, color, and composition — but ultimately felt it didn’t quite meet the “get low” requirement. It was a gamble that didn’t pay off this time, but I still love the image and the whole experience. No regrets 💙.

🏆 Check out the Top Ten

The Top 10 from this round are absolutely stunning! You can check them out here:
https://www.unleashed.education/blog/embark-2025-get-down-top-10

My personal favorite is by Leticia Pascual Fotografia (Instagram: @leticia_pascual_fotografia). I love the Border Collie’s intense focus, the gorgeous tones, the leading lines, and the hint of blurred swans in the background — chef’s kiss 🖤✨.

🪄Behind the Edit: From Snapshot to Showstopper

What you see in a final photo is just part of the story — the editing process brings out the full personality and magic of the moment 🎨.

With Pearl’s beach action photo, the original was darker and moodier. I warmed up the sky to bring out those sunset colors 🌅, deepened the contrast to make the splashes more dramatic, and lightened shadows to help Pearl stand out from the darker waves. I also enhanced the reflection in the wet sand — one of my favorite little details — and removed a few distractions to keep the focus on the action 💦🐶.

With Lexie’s portrait, I focused on polishing what was already there. I removed the leash 🪢, enhanced the texture in her fur to bring out those gorgeous tri-color markings, and made sure her white coat was bright without losing detail. A touch of background blur made her smile stand out even more 🥰.

Be sure to scroll through the before & after sliders to see the transformation — I love showing how a little post-processing can elevate an already beautiful moment.

📸 Want Beautiful Photos of Your Dog, Too?

Every pet has a story — and I’d love to help you tell yours. Whether your dog is goofy, graceful, energetic, or just loves cuddles, we’ll create images that reflect exactly who they are 🐾💛.

If you’ve been thinking about booking a session, now’s the perfect time! My calendar is filling up fast, and I’d be honored to capture portraits of your best friend that you’ll treasure forever.

✨ Sessions are relaxed, fun, and tailored to your dog’s personality
📍 Based in the Panama City and surrounding areas
📅 Ready to book or want to learn more?

👉 CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR SESSION

Let’s make some magic together!