The “explore” thing. I have just been blindly doing it. Clicking through until that horse is done and hoping to get some pictures. (Failing a lot at the pics)

I do not have enough ebs at this point to get a round pen yet, but plan to.

Anyways, is there some sort of strategy to this? Ways to be more successful? Is it super slow to level up?

Thanks in advance for any help!

You get 1% level progress every time you successfully take a picture or you nudge/spur/stick without spooking. You don't get the option to take a picture if the animal is currently in your scrapbook, so make sure to check your scrapbook and turn in completed sets before every ride.

I used to only explore only once or twice per day. My larger accounts are only between levels 12-16. I'm trying to remember to do it more often.

I’m the same with you though, I typically just hit nudge. It’s easier and I have good luck with it.