A YOUNG dog lover spent a day with a top professional photographer after bagging first place in a competition.

Ten-year-old Katie Davies was named winner of the 16 and under category in the Kennel Club Dog Photographer of the Year 2013 contest after impressing judges with her talent and creativity.

Katie, of the Fremnells, Basildon, beat off stiff competition from older children after submitting a comical photograph of her Miniature Schnauzer and Pomeranian hiding among a mountain of soft toys.

As part of her winning prize, she got to spend a day snapping away with awardwinning photographer Andy Biggar.

Katie, a pupil at Fairhouse Community School, in Long Riding, Basildon, said: “I learnt a lot about dog photography on my day with Andy. I really enjoyed taking photos of his dogs, Jet and Saxon, and especially the ones of the dogs jumping into the water.”

She took up an interest in photographer at a young age and is keen to become a pet photographer when she is older.

Mr Biggar said: “Katie was absolutely fantastic and she has a really natural way with dogs, which helps tremendously.

We took a range of photos, including portraits and some incredible action shots. It’s wonderful to see somebody of her age with such an incredible talent.”

Entry to this year’s competition, sponsored by Samsung, is now open.

The winner will bag a camera, VIP access to capture the Crufts Best in Showwinner in 2015, and a donation to their chosen dog charity. To apply before November 10, visit www.thekennelclub.org.uk