They say a home is just a house without a dog. Those of us with dogs know this very well, I bet you can’t wait to get home for those joy filled cuddles!

We went Under Cover for this one, asking challengers to photograph pets indoors, or under a roof or structure of some kind.

For the Under Cover challenge in our Emerge Course other types of pet are more than welcome too and it was lovely ot see images of cats and even a horse in the submissions. But form all the work we saw, we had to select the 10 best. In no particular order, here they are.

- Charlotte & Craig 🐶 📸 ✨

Teran Buckner | Phido Photography

The choice of lens gives a super sharp curious kitty face and whiskers along with a soft background. The colour palette is perfectly controlled.

Shandess Griffin | Shand and Your Dogs Photography

A scene we are all familiar with in our own homes, this instantly provides connection to the subjects. Beautifully lit to reduce the image just to the essential elements.

Lisa Olson | Pets R Family

The warm tones and lighting provide a cosy scene, accentuated by the curtains and soft textures of the teddy. A beautiful storytelling image that has been expertly crafted.

Kendra Stautz | Wild Woof Photography

A beautiful expression sharply captured and well lit, this dog looks comfy and cosy on their bed. The wide low angle results in great leading lines and depth.

Joan Wood | SouthPawPix

The limited colour palette and combination of dark and light tones gives a soft and cosy feel to this lovely feline portrait. A beautiful expression tops it off!

Erica Schomaker | Ash and Alder Photography

This dapper kitty is the master of their domain, with a fantastic strong pose and expression. The background is interesting and contributes to the story - is this an antique shop cat?

Desiree Nickerson | Born 2 Run Photography

I want that one! A familiar scene that we can all relate to, a good pup picking out their new favourite toy. Great composition and lighting in what must have been challenging conditions.

Brittani White

We were blown away by the impact of this image - so bold and grand! And the dog is the master of their domain. Love the low and wide angle and inclusion of the whole chandelier.

Aubri Poon | Aubri Poon Photography

Great use of light direction here to tell a story - we can only assume the dog is waiting for their special person to arrive home, snuggled into the comfort of their couch and cushions.

Angela Rose | Angie Rose Photography

This is a scene and expression we are all familiar with, providing an instant connection. The detail of the red hose curving around acts as a frame and leading line, a great addition to the scene.

Are you ready to transform your pet photography in just 6 months?

The Unleashed Challenges are a series of 3 interactive challenge based courses, Embark, Emerge and Empower. Each one with 12 challenges running over 6 months. 

Much more than just a challenge, Then Unleashed challenges are an invaluable educational resource that will help you build up a go-to list of shots to help create variety in your work. Designed for anyone to be able to complete whether you just want to photograph your own dog or you are a professional pet photographer.

If you'd like to know more, head over here to register your interest.