Since 2019 I’ve been invited by Laura, one of the organisers, to photograph the annual Southwold Sausage Dog Walk. The event has grown year on year into a big gathering, drawing people from Suffolk and well beyond. Here is a look at this year’s walk, the people and dogs who make it, and my part in it.
The Evolution of the Southwold Sausage Dog Walk
Stuart McBurney, another key organiser, put it well: “The Southwold Sausage Walk is something a bit special. It’s special because of the people that attend in their thousands, send messages and pictures, and get involved in this great charity event.” The event has had over 2 million views on social media and featured on ITV News, 6music and Radio 2.
The Task at Hand
My job is to document the day. The organisers want a good set of images to promote next year’s walk, and it is work I enjoy, since it sits well with my pet portrait and commercial photography work.
The Experience: Sausage Dogs Galore
This year’s walk was fantastic. Hundreds of dachshunds turned out, each adding to the noise and the excitement. It was loud, but the atmosphere was electric and hard to forget.
The Opportunity for Pet Portraits
The day is also a good showcase for studio portraits of sausage dogs. If you would like professional photographs of your own pet, you can see my portfolio at Sausage Dog Photo.
Acknowledging the Effort
The walk runs on the hard work of a small, dedicated group. I am glad to play a part by photographing it, and each year I am struck by the commitment of the organisers and the people who come along.
Looking Ahead
With another year done, I’m already looking forward to the next one and hope to keep being part of it. This year’s photographs are available at Southwold Sausage Dog Walk October 2023.
Conclusion
The Southwold Sausage Dog Walk is more than an event. It is a community of people and their dogs coming together for a good cause, and it is an honour to document it. I look forward to what comes next, one frame at a time.