Capturing an image with a full reflection is so much fun to do. You can use a mirror image in so many ways that enhance an image and add a little touch of magic to them. They can add symmetry and balance to a composition and they can even be used to trick our eyes. Whether reflections are a sharp mirror image of their real life counterpart or a softer, ethereal representation that loosely resembles the shape and colour, reflections rock!

For the Mirror Image challenge, we asked out Emerge challengers to go out and shot reflections and WOW, did we see some incredible submissions.

Here, in no particular order are our top 10 images from this challenge. Well done to the photographers who created this beautiful work.

Charlotte & Craig 🐶 📸 ✨

We provide video feedback on all images submitted for the challenge, and from there, we select our Top 20 and Top 10. Without further ado, here are the Top 10 images for this challenge!

Ave Paasuke | Coastal Tails

Those ears give so much expression to this image, and the simplicity of the scene keep the viewer engaged with the subject. The little slash through the reflection gives a feeling of a glitch in the matrix that adds interest. Cool shot!

Camilla Johannessen | Hundefoto.nu

Such a perfect reflection has been captured in this image! The dog's pose and the little details of the splashes and wet fur tell the story perfectly. The dog's colouring also stands out so well against the colour of the background. Just lovely.

Connie Tamura

This mirror-in-the-environment is one of the best executed versions of this common theme that we've seen. The colour palette is harmonious, the picture in the "frame" is beautifully composed and the layers and depth perfectly rendered.

Erica Harvey | Erica Lane Photography

A creative and unique take on the them that we've never seen before! The symmetry, the lighting, and that dramatic sky would be enough - but then there's the flowers which simultaneously feel out of place and such an integral part of the scene. Great work!

Jordyn Bobo | Golden Atlas Photography

What really makes this image shine is the dog's pose and expression — they draw the eye immediately, and from there the lovely surroundings and reflection become a beautiful supporting element. The slight softness of the reflection keeps the focus firmly on the subject. Well done!

Krystal Annetts

Great use of full sun and a very simple location and composition really draw us to the dog's expression. The super serious look of the dog is juxtaposed with the chopped-up nose of the reflection, giving some comedy relief in what would otherwise be a very serious image!

Linda Van Oeffelen-Brosens | Jinterwas photography

This image has so much impact, it's hard to know what to mention first! The little loveheart formed by the tongue, the perfect symmetry, the urban backdrop that breaks down so aesthetically in the reflection, and the colour and texture of the dog's fur - it's all brilliant.

Nikki Jennifer | Nikki Jennifer Photography

Everything comes together beautifully in this image, from the slow motion of the dog to the windswept look. The dog is perfectly framed in the foliage in the distance and the subtle twilight tones in the sky and the water give a soft and serene feel.

Sherry Glassman | Sherry Glassman

What a striking location, and the angle and perspective create a plethora of leading lines and frames that all take us directly to the subject. The "peeking" reflection and hint of the world beneath give it a real sci-fi feel. Great work!

Vera Faupel | @everythingpawssible

The otherworldly feel of this image makes it truly special. The dog's face and head, while not the brightest part of the image, still draw the viewer directly to it so the contemplative expression can be enjoyed. The mist over the water really sets the scene, lovely image.

Emerge is the intermediate 6-month interactive challenge-based dog photography course in our Unleashed Challenges series, focusing on helping you to expand your shooting shot list and learn valuable new skills.

Emerge is open to students who have previously completed the first course in the series, Embark.

Want to be the first to hear when Embark opens for enrolment each year? Register your interest here.