Well, I finally finished watching the Soul Searcher feedback video. While I was happy to make the shortlist, I can’t deny I was bummed (and maybe a little salty) that my image didn’t make the Top 20.

For those who don’t know, being shortlisted means my image hit the brief of the theme—so it was strong enough to be recognized as meeting the challenge. The downside? There were just too many editing issues that kept it from breaking into the Top 20. Ouch.

Of course, I always check my results before watching the video (who doesn’t? lol) so I went in already feeling grumpy and disappointed that Mabel and I didn’t place. I really loved that image of her and thought the things they pointed out were no big deal. Mabel, for the record, was totally unbothered. She believes every photo is her best side.

But… after “massaging my ass” — I mean, my pride — from being knocked off my high horse LOL, I actually took their feedback, applied it to the image, and guess what? It’s better (that is the image posted here). They were right. I was wrong. No surprise there.

I had considered removing some flowers but didn’t, and with her fur tone I sometimes struggle with what color or brightness to pick so she doesn’t disappear or look too washed out. In the end, though, the updated version is a much stronger image.

What I also realized is that when I’m in a hurry and juggling too many creative things at once, I miss things. Rushing doesn’t serve me (or Mabel). It’s always better when I slow down, focus on one thing at a time, and give it the attention it deserves. Lesson learned—again.

The moral of the story? You can always learn something, even if you’re not ready to hear it at first.

Want to check out the winning images and see how everyone else did? You can see the Soul Searcher Top 10 here:
👉 https://www.unleashed.education/blog/embark-2025-soul-searcher-top-10