There was an anecdote, told either by the writer or by Levinson/Link, about that part of the script. Everybody was betting that there was no way Peter Falk would agree to do that gag, about the dog "pin-up" photo -- that it was too ridiculous for Peter's taste, and he would rip it up or threaten to walk off again. And they were all surprised when Peter went ahead and did it without hesitation. It is a funny joke, and you can take it different ways, including that Columbo was just yanking Galesko's chain, asking this vain, Pulitzer-prize winning photographer to not only help with photos at a Columbo family wedding but also to take a dog-picture for the amusement of his lovesick basset hound. Columbo was really pushing his buttons! :slightly_smiling_face:
That's an interesting story Ted. Thanks for sharing. I was thinking that there was something more in this than just a joke (especially due to the reaction of Galesko). Then the reaction must be purely due to the ridiculousness of Lt's idea.