On the Rim of Eternity

Thanks

Great expression, very good portrait and... beautiful dog! Ciao,

 

Nadia

I love the wind blown effect and the intense concentration in this face.

Gordon, There's a story behind the title of this image. This great old guy, whose name was Rio, was my pal for 17 years. During my days as a journalist, he often came with me on the road. He loved the Flint Hills in east-central Kansas, so when he was dying, I took him out there for a long weekend. This was his last great day and one of the last shots I ever took of him. (Wish it were better.) In the series of the girl and dog on a lonely rural road, the dog is Rio, and the child, my youngest daughter, had just realized that Rio was mortally ill. It was totally unposed. She was truly comforting him and starting to say her farewells. Thanks for your comment.

Rio, looks a wise old soul. I think these guys know when it's time. As an adult I still find those goodbyes too painful, for a little girl it must be a hard life lesson. I still remember the passing of my first dog from childhood.

Such a beautiful dog. I love the shot composition. Perhaps a fill flash would have helped here because I think the dog could be made to pop just a little bit more. He blends in just slightly up around his head. If only he were around for another photo shoot...

Tyler: Thanks for your comment. Yes, if he were still around many things would be better, including the next shot I took of him. I have many others that are technically superior, but none quite captured his dignity the way this one did. Thanks again. Regards...

Much as you do, I often revisit a photograph I have commented on. While perhaps we often think the elements of a great photograph are super sharp focus, great capture of the moment, etc, sometimes we are surprised with what actually comes out after we push the shutter closed. This photo has an impressionistic feel for me--as though it was painted. I can see the rough edges of the paint and then the dog clearly jumps out of the picture for me. Quite intriguing photo, but I am not sure you could duplicate it if you tried... Wonderful shot.

Joseph, I find this photo particularly striking as I have seen this expression on my own dog's face in recent times. I find that your photo portrays a strength of character that isn't always easy to capture in a dog. J

Okay, I have officially cried for the first time while using this website. Rio looks a lot like my dog Topy who died a couple years ago. And we had a very similar goodbye with our son and daughter. Amazing what these little creatures can mean to us. I'm sure this was an emotional photo for you to take and to share, and it is very touching. I am going to do the same with my favorite photo of our last moments with our buddy, stop by my place and take a look when you get a chance. Thank you for the inspiration, and even for the tears. :) Holly

Some of my hardest "farewell's" have been to the dog's that have kept me company, helped raise my children, and even saved my life; and then they were gone. This portrait has brought back so many good memories of the pooches that have shared my journey and I pray they rest in peace till we meet again.

It is a Cllasical painting, Tones are superb.

As I said before for all the respect you gave Rio, your beastly friend , we get more in return, in unconditional love and great company. 7/7. An image that you captured with emotion. Best regards.

Joseph, Rio had such a sweet face and warm eyes. I think you were both blessed to have each other. A beautiful and loving image.

Wow- great shot of your dog, and a great story behind it. While the story really makes the image special, the image by itself is so strong that it grabs the viewer on its own, and the story is an added icing on the cake. This was obviously a dog with panache. Beautiful work-

Mark

Wonderful pic to a lovely dog, Joseph. Sorry you lost such a wonderful companion. Hugs.

strolling through your images tonight I found this face!!! I love it