Have you ever tried to get a professional photograph of a
Shar Pei dog?
Believe me, it’s not easy and I speak from experience. After
thinking I’d come up with the perfect birthday present for a man who has
everything, I booked an appointment with a skilled young photographer in Barnard Castle.
As Shar Pei’s go, the dog behaved well but then
they’re not known for their easy manner and quick response – they don’t leap
after sticks and their ears are too small to prick up at the sound of a squeaky ball - which is obviously
necessary for natural-looking photograhs.
For the first ten minutes Winston moved obediently from side
to side, graciously accepting nibbles of cooked chicken and looking reasonably
amenable. After that, he lost interest
and the poor photographer had to move from one position to another, even lying
on her back to get better poses of him!
By the end of the session I thought she might have a nervous
breakdown and I did my best to reassure her that some of the pictures were
certain to represent the Shar Pei breed; that is haughty and aloof.
It was probably a ridiculous idea of mine and next year I’ll buy
Chocolates and After-Shave as usual, but I must say I await the results with
interest.
