Ingrid,
thanks for the compliment on the Afghan BIS shot. Now, those people represent the other side of the proverbial coin. They called me the Monday after the weekend shows; I e-proofed them the BIS shots; they pre-paid by credit card for both the prints and for the image I RUSHED to their ad designer; and the designer sent me a proof of the ad for my review. That was a very nice experience all the way around.

I like your photograph. Very dramatic angle and nice dog. Those are the types of shots I love to have the time to take.

I never have a problem with folks taking candids at the shows I shoot. I'm busy running from ring to ring taking the formals so why should I complain about people doing the fun stuff?!!!

Having said that, I had another show photographer try to have me thrown out of a show he was shooting even though I was only shooting candids. After I explained life to the Show Chairman in terms he will forever understand, the issue was dropped but that photographer was simply trying to give me a hard time. I don't play that game. Unless somebody is trying to take a formal at the same time I am, I'm cool with folks shooting at the shows.

The link was interesting. What wasn't mentioned was the number of exhibitors who have a photo taken simply to be able to schmooze with the judge with no intention of actually buying a print. Several of the top show photographers have gone to charging folks a "sitting fee" which gets waived if they buy a photo.

I am constantly amazed by the behavior of dog show people. And I say that with the clear understanding that I am one.

Take care,

Jim