Print Competition, Creative Growth, and the Real Meaning Behind the Master of Photography
A photographer's journey of growth, skill-building, and earning the Master of Photography degree through Professional Photographers of America (PPA)
When I started my photography journey, I never imagined I’d be writing this:
This year, I earned my Master of Photography degree from Professional Photographers of America (PPA).
It’s a big milestone—one that reflects years of entering print competition, learning through critique, refining my craft, and always pushing myself to grow. But more importantly? It represents the mindset I’ve developed as a photographer: stay curious, stay committed, and keep improving.
If you’re new to photography or feeling stuck in your creative growth, I hope sharing my journey encourages you to explore what competition can offer—not just for the accolades, but for the way it challenges you to grow.
🏅 Why I Enter Print Competition
I didn’t get into photography for awards or recognition. I got into it because I love dogs, storytelling, and the meaningful relationships people have with their pets. But once I discovered print competition, I found something I didn’t know I was missing: a structured way to grow.
At first, I was nervous to put my work out there. Submitting an image to be judged—formally and publicly—is intimidating. But once I did, I realized how powerful the process really is.
Here’s what it’s done for me:
It sharpened my skills. You begin to notice the little things: how light shapes your subject, how composition strengthens a story, and how technical decisions affect emotion.
It gave me honest feedback. Constructive critique from trained judges helped me see where I could improve—and where I was already strong.
It fueled my creativity. With every new image I created for competition, I explored new ideas, new techniques, and new ways to tell a story.
🎓 What the Master of Photography Means to Me
PPA’s Master of Photography degree isn’t something you receive just for showing up. It’s earned over time through consistent image excellence, education, and service to the photography community.
It took me five years. And while the journey wasn’t always easy, it was absolutely worth it. Each image I submitted, each critique I listened to, and each new challenge I took on helped move me forward.
Receiving the degree isn’t the end of the road—it’s a marker of the growth I’ve experienced and the commitment I’ve made to always improve.
🖼️ The Work That Got Me There
Each image I submitted along the way played an important role in helping me earn the Master of Photography degree—and I’m proud to share all of them with you right here in this post.
Some were created in the studio. Others were captured outdoors during golden hour or in the middle of a spontaneous moment with a wiggly pup. Each one reflects a creative challenge, a lesson learned, or a breakthrough in how I approach light, composition, or storytelling.
View the slideshow of the full gallery of competition images. Each image represents a moment of growth—creative risks taken, lessons learned, and a deeper commitment to my craft.
Whether you're a fellow photographer or just someone who appreciates thoughtful, story-driven imagery (especially of dogs!), I hope you enjoy this look behind the scenes at the work that shaped my journey.
🚀 Why I’ll Keep Going
Now that I’ve earned the degree, people often ask if I’ll keep entering print competition. The answer is: absolutely.
Not because I need another title—but because the process itself has become a critical part of how I grow. It challenges me to raise the bar, try new things, and never settle for “good enough.”
Print competition keeps me moving forward. And for that, I’m grateful.
💬 A Note to Other Photographers
If you’ve ever considered entering competition but felt unsure or intimidated, I get it. I’ve been there. But here’s what I’ll say:
Don’t wait to be “ready.” You grow through the process, not before it.
Be open to feedback. It’s a gift—even when it stings a little.
Give yourself permission to create for yourself. Not every image will earn a merit, but every entry will teach you something.
Whether you're chasing a degree or just looking to grow, print competition can be an incredible tool. And I’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.
Stephanie with her #1 model. Thank you, Koda, for allowing me to learn, grow, and create with your never-ending grace and patience.
🐾 Why This Matters for My Clients
Earning the Master of Photography degree isn’t just a personal achievement—it directly reflects the level of care, expertise, and attention I bring to every session.
For my clients—past, present, and future—this milestone is proof of what I’ve always believed: your experience and your images deserve the highest level of craftsmanship.
Here’s what this means for you:
You’re working with someone who never stops learning. I’m committed to growing my skills so I can consistently deliver not just beautiful photos, but meaningful images that capture your dog’s personality and your connection.
Your artwork is created with intention. From lighting and composition to expression and emotion, I consider every detail to make sure your images tell a story worth preserving.
You can relax, knowing you’re in good hands. My background in dog behavior and now this degree from PPA means I bring both technical excellence and real-world experience to the table.
This recognition from PPA validates the standards I’ve set for my work—but more importantly, it reinforces the promise I’ve made to you: to create something truly special, built on trust, patience, and skill.
If this post resonated with you—whether you're a fellow creative, a past or future client, or someone who simply enjoys learning about the creative process—I’d love it if you shared it. The more we connect through stories like these, the more we all grow.
