The story behind this photo
This photo is special for many reasons. It was a rainy, misty, dreary day. Not a day that you would think of going out to do a portrait session. But, Meatball was a special dog, and Dina, his owner, was eager to get the photos done because she was concerned about his health, and how long she might have with him. So, despite the weather, we went on as planned. Except for one thing. The plan was to do the session at one of my favorite parks – so we were to meet there. When I arrived and took one look at Meatball, I knew I had to go to somewhere else….the tracks. Since there wasn’t any sun, and the weather was already questionable, time wasn’t really an issue. So, Dina loaded Meatball (and Delilah) back into the car and we headed for the train tracks.
To say that Meatball was strong and energetic is an understatement. For most of the sitting, Dina held tight to his leash as he struggled to run over to see me – or tromple over me to get to the toy that Eryn was holding. Finally we ventured up the very steep hill onto the tracks. We took a few photos, and then positioned Meatball on the tracks and asked him to sit. To all of our surprise, he sat. And sat, and sat. He sat so well, that I asked Dina to drop his leash. A few squeaky voice sounds later and VOILA, this photo was created. As I got up off the tracks (filthy from head to toe) I thanked Meatball profusely for what he had just given me.
Honestly, I really think he knew exactly what he was doing. He knew it was his moment and he made it work.
For me, this image represents so much. A moment in time that I will remember forever, an amazing dog with an incredible spirit, and a heart and soul that will live on in this photo.

I have entered this image of Meatball in PDN’s Faces contest. I would be honored if you would click here, and go to the page and vote!
Thank you for reading Meatball’s photo story, and for {hopefully} voting!!
Oh, and for anyone who might be wondering…this was shot on Fuji Neopan 1600 black and white film….my favorite film of all time.
























