When we discussed our elements theme for our four-month long photo challenge, on a pier at Generations Resort Riviera Maya, under the joyful Caribbean sun and surrounded by tons of people, little did we know how the world would change in the coming months. Today we’re (hopefully) all observing the rules of quarantine and focusing on keeping ourselves and our loved ones safe, because the entire Earth is going through this unforgiving pandemic together.

So after challenging you to #BeTheWater last month, we’re now launching a theme that should provide endless inspiration to all creators, especially now: Earth. Earth can be the planet, the land we live on, the creatures around us, the people who make us feel at home, and everything in between—your imagination is the only limit.

The only absolute rule we have is that you have to be safe, and keep those around you safe as well, while you consider and pursue this photo challenge. In fact, for many of us, this is an excellent time to go through our archives of photos we’ve never gotten around to reviewing and editing, and find those hidden gems that everyone will fall in love with.

During the month of April, post your photos representing your interpretation of #BeTheEarth to Instagram, and tag them with #BeTheEarth, #BeAlpha, and @sonyalpha. We'll feature some of our favorites on AlphaUniverse.com and on @SonyAlpha social channels, offering an opportunity for all to have their photos seen by millions of people. Social sharing is a great equalizer, so let’s use it to shine a light on all the great art our community creates constantly.