We got Kasper as a puppy and he lived with us for 11 years. My user name (senor_kasper) was chosen in tribute to his ever-present happiness, kindness and loyalty. Kasper stopped eating about a month ago, his habits changed dramatically and he could not find a comfortable position. It was not easy for the several vets that saw him to arrive at a diagnosis; during the process we suffered seeing him suffer and become weaker by the day. Last Saturday he had a biopsy of the prostate. When I went out to shoot this challenge photo with my son on Sunday we were both in a somber mood, anticipating the worst. The beach we chose to shoot 'Washing Ashore' is only a short distance from the beach that Kasper loved to go to. Yesterday, Monday, we got the results from the vet, it was an aggressive form of cancer, no treatment for it would be appropriate at his advanced age. Today, Tuesday, we found the courage to take him back to the vet to end his suffering. My entire family is heartbroken. I do not know how this photo will do in the challenge, but it is the photo of mine that I like the best, and I dedicate it to our adored Kasper.
Statistics
Place: 16 out of 245 Avg (all users): 6.5025 Avg (commenters): 7.5385 Avg (participants): 6.0000 Avg (non-participants): 6.7266 Views since voting: 2048 Views during voting: 362 Votes: 201 Comments: 22 Favorites: 5 (view)
I know this work is a few years old, but I stumbled on it today. Your photo caught my eye because I am always drawn to the sea and saw something emotional in your work and wanted to read what you had to say. I had to stop several times to wipe my eyes before I could go on. Our beloved cocker spaniel Daisy is 15 and that bullet is headed our way. She is a sailing dog and your tribute to Kasper touched me deeply. Thank you for the beautiful work and words, but most of all for sharing when you were vulnerable. Lauri
I'm so very sorry to hear of your sad loss. I have a beautifull pup called pippa and it really pains me to think of the day that i'll lose her. Just reading your story brings me to tears. But I rejoice in the thought that for however long she lives she would have had a life full of love and happiness, and I'm sure that's what you gave kasper, so take comfort from that! I'll refrain from making a comment on the pic as a tribute to kasper, as it just doesn't seem appropriate and it reminds us all that there are far more important things in life!
"Washing Ashore" was my favorite when I first reviewed the photos in this challenge. The following day I was still recalling this photo in my mind. It is a beautiful picture.
That shell is huge compared to the other ones, looks almost unreal. I like how it stands out on the blue background. Colors are very nice. Rule of thirds plays nicely here and focus is good. Nice visually appealing image.
PM me and tell me you lit that shell with a flash light or something and I'll raise your score. It looks like some light underneath it - so I want to be sure. Y'know? 7