The 2025 Be the Light Gala has passed — but the work continues year round. Explore last year's auction package below and learn more about the extraordinary mission behind Shelter to Soldier.

Be the Light Gala

SHELTER TO SOLDIER

August 24th, 2025

L´Auberge Del Mar

1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014

Tickets and Information

Black and white ticket graphic with the word TICKET in the center, surrounded by stars.
Silhouette of a soldier kneeling with a rifle, with a smaller silhouette of a child holding the soldier's hand, surrounded by the text 'Sender to Soldier' and a star.
A logo for Keala Stevens Photography featuring a circular wreath with initials KP inside and the full name 'Keala Stevens Photography' below.
A Corgi dog poses on a rock at the beach.

A Portrait Experience to Celebrate Your Dog

A Special Silent Auction Package | Benefitting Shelter to Soldier

I’m Keala, a San Diego-based dog photographer, proud to donate this custom portrait package in support of a meaningful cause. It’s designed to capture your dog’s personality and the bond you share—in a setting that feels relaxed, natural, and true to you both.

Whether your pup is goofy, soulful, camera-shy, or ready for the spotlight, every session is tailored to who they are and how you want to remember them.

A Corgi dog stand behind is stick at the beach.
An adorable herding dog with a merle coat running on the beach with a stick in its mouth.
A dog lying on a piece of wood next to a person who is sitting wrapped in a patterned blanket at the beach

What’s Included

Total Value: $695

  • A 90-minute portrait session in a scenic location between Laguna Beach and San Diego. Choose a coastal backdrop, canyon trail, or quiet park—whatever suits your dog’s energy and your style.

  • Consultations, scouting, full photo-editing—everything that goes into the making of storytelling portraits.

  • An 11x14 archival mat with an 8x12 print, ready to frame.

  • An archival companion desk print of the same image.

  • A $200 artwork credit to apply toward keepsake albums, custom wall pieces, or a beautifully crafted wood presentation box of printed photographs.

  • A curated gift bag with thoughtful surprises for both you and your dog.

  • 20% off additional purchases, should you fall in love with more images.

How It Works

If you’re the winning bidder, we’ll schedule a quick consult (call or Zoom—whatever’s easiest) to talk about your vision, your dog, and the kind of location and vibe you’re drawn to. On session day, I’ll guide you and your pup every step of the way, keeping it light and fun. Once your session is complete, you’ll choose your favorite image for your gift print and apply your $200 credit toward most anything in my product catalog—from custom albums to wall pieces and other keepsake artwork. You’ll also receive 20% off if you decide to add more.

Why This Matters

I’ve spent years photographing dogs and the people who love them—and I know one thing for sure: their time with us never feels long enough. This experience is about preserving the love you share in a way that’s lasting and beautiful.

Whether you're bidding for yourself or as a gift for a fellow dog lover, thank you for showing up for the dogs — and for the veterans who need them most.

Last Year’s Winner

A dog jumping on a beach with a ball in its mouth.
A dog running on the beach with a orange toy in its mouth.
A dog with a white coat stands on black rocks at the beach, with the ocean and cliffs in the background.
A woman with long curly hair, smiling and laughing while holding a puppy close to her face.

Meet your photographer

ABOUT
ABOUT
A woman and a dog playing in the shallow ocean water at sunset, with clouds in the sky and the sun low on the horizon.
A woman and her dog sharing a moment at the beach.
A woman playing tug of war with a dog on the beach during sunset, with the ocean and clouds in the background.

See More of My Work Here

Portfolio
Portfolio