The Story Behind the Photograph #1
Jim Fanning
I took this photograph in Westborough Street, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, on 3 July 2026. I was spending a few days on holiday there, enjoying one of those rare, scorching summer days on the Yorkshire coast. The town centre was busy with shoppers, families and plenty of dogs, but this little poodle immediately stood out. Dressed in a pale blue coat and tiny shoes, it looked as though it was ready for a serious day out rather than a leisurely walk.
The dog’s owner was waiting outside while his partner browsed in the shops. Rather than sitting patiently, the dog wandered back and forth, stopping every so often to peer through the shop windows. It seemed completely absorbed by everything going on inside, almost as if it was deciding whether there was anything worth buying.
As soon as I noticed the dog, I hoped it would pause beside a shop window so I could include its reflection. I couldn’t predict exactly what would happen, but when it stopped and appeared to gaze at its own reflection, everything came together for a brief moment. It was one of those occasions when patience was rewarded with a split second of perfect timing.
For me, street photography is about the small, unexpected moments that make everyday life so entertaining. Scarborough always has a wonderful sense of character, and this photograph captures the town’s light-hearted, quirky side. It is a reminder, I think, that the best street photographs often come from simply observing the world with a sense of curiosity—and humour.
Bio:
Amateur photographer, living in a small village, 12 miles to the west of Edinburgh, with a regular train service into the city, making it an ideal location to get out and about for slow walks around the streets of the city, taking photographs. Whilst I'm always experimenting with different genres, street photography is my main focus. I tend to use a Ricoh GRiiix or Canon R8. Currently studying a photography degree with the Open University / OCA.