The morning was bright and sunny so we went over to Romsey, a local market town, for a walkabout. First we came to Romsey Abbey and went in so I could take some photos: good opportunities - floral displays, a painted wooden ceiling, beautiful altar cloth.......
We exited the Abbey by a side door and came out into the street where I noticed a man and his very small dog. A passerby was making a fuss of the dog; I crossed the street and took my opportunity to ask for a photo. The owner agreed. I then waited 'in line' a few seconds as two more ladies came along and wanted to pet the dog.
When I was ready to take some photos, the owner was a little surprised, having thought I just wanted to take shots of his dog. But he quickly agreed to be photographed too. I explained how I would use the portraits. Meet Lee and his 12 week old Yorkshire terrier puppy, Rook.
When I gave my card to Lee, Rook immediately began to chew it. I just missed the shot so we did a 're-enactment' which you see is not too authentic but I thought it worth a space here.**
I wondered if Lee and his family had previously owned a dog. He told me that this was the first time and it came came about mainly because of his son's deep wish to have a dog, who has been named after Rook, the drummer in a favourite band which his son supports.
This was a lovely impromptu, friendly encounter and I cannot but help think about all the pleasure the family and Rook will have together in the years to come.
This is going to seem a strange remark, Phil, but that 50mm portrait lens is definitely ace for portraits.