Well… I’ve officially started an online pet photography challenge. Because clearly, I didn’t have enough going on already. 😂

But really—when Unleashed Education opened up their Embark Challenge, something about it called to me. Maybe it was the need for a creative kick in the pants. Maybe it was the promise of expanding my outdoor offerings for clients. Or maybe (most likely) it was just a great excuse to take even more photos of Mabel. Like I need an excuse.

So here we are.

The first challenge theme was "Coloriffic"—all about using a bold, vibrant background color. Easy, right? Sounds simple until you remember I live in a beige town where every building tries to blend in like camouflage. And spring hadn’t exactly burst into full floral glory yet—just green trees, green grass, green bushes... green on green with a side of more green. Not exactly the bold, punchy color vibe the challenge called for.

But then I remembered something: a building downtown with a rainbow mural I’d seen while driving around. I wasn’t 100% sure they woudl let me use the wall, but I figured, why not ask? I called the business and crossed my fingers—and to my delight, they said YES.

So off Mabel and I went (along with Aunt Toni, the ever-reliable light stand and leash pole holder), armed with a camera, treats, and just enough caffeine to function.

Our first attempt at this shoot included the rainbow wall and a few other background choices, but let me tell you, it was a disaster. The wind was absolutely out of control. Poor Mabel couldn’t catch a break—every time she struck a pose, a gust would blow her ears straight into her face. She kept blinking like, “Seriously? This is what we’re doing today?” I had high hopes for that shoot, but between the flapping ears and the constant wind-blown fur, it just wasn’t happening. We packed it up, both of us frustrated but determined to try again another day, which we did AND.....

... wouldn’t you know it, the rainbow wall delivered! So did Mabel, because she’s a professional at this point. We worked that wall like it was our own personal runway. The end result? Our photo made it into the Top 20 out of more than 100 entries. And no, I haven’t stopped happy-dancing about it.

Let’s be honest—this wasn’t just about colors or placements. I signed up for this challenge to stretch myself creatively and remind myself what it’s like to make art just for fun. No client deadlines. No pressure. Just me, my camera, and a dog who (thankfully) works for treats.

And yeah—about that dog. You already know Mabel is the face of Erica Lane Photography. She’s also my shadow, my co-worker, and my constant reminder to stop taking things so seriously and just chase the light (and maybe a few squirrels).

Doing this challenge with her is about having fun. We’re making memories, playing in the sunshine, and creating images (because you know I didn’t stop at just the rainbow wall) that I’m really proud of. With 12 challenges spread over 6 months, I should have a pretty epic scrapbook of her in all her glorious cuteness by the end.

If this Top 20 placement is any sign of what’s to come in the rest of the Embark Challenge, I can’t wait to see what’s next.

And hey, if you’ve been thinking about booking an outdoor session with your pup… now’s the time. I’m freshly inspired, slightly sunburned, and ready to make something beautiful with you and your dog too.

Stay tuned for more chaos.

—Erica (and Mabel, the real boss)