>I take train pictures with >a couple of sometimes conflicting motives in mind. One is to produce >pleasing, well composed photographs that happen to include trains >in them, and the other is to document the trains themselves.
Well sounds like mighty good motives to me. A pretty good reason to be on this list I'd say. But I do disagree with conflciting. How about pleasing, well composed roster shots? >I have to envy the "serious" photographers, the "I am NOT a railfan" types who >can divorce themselves from any interest in trains, and who photograph them >merely because they are challenging subject matter. Don't be envious. I am a "serious photographer" with the same goals. I am out shooting to have fun, enjoy trains, record history, and create pleasing photographs. There are a few of us who shoot trains for the challenge, but I have a very large interest in trains still, or I wouldn't be out there. >I doubt I'll ever get to that point. For your sake, I hope not too. Usually, if there is any interest or potential enjoyment in the task your are trying to complete, you are much more likely to be successful in what you do. > I'll continue shoot roster shots until the day my >shutter freezes (again). I am not into roster shots, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with shooting them. In fact, it can be an aid in learning composition and good practice in getting good exposures if nothing else. >I'll continue to feel just a bit edgy about >setting up for a shot in a place where I can't react quickly if something >rare or unusual happens by. Trust me. I've missed many golden opportunities in my trials. However, due to practice, these occurences happen far less frequently than they used to. And it certainly doesn't hurt to be a somewhat knowledgeable railfan, a plus that those photgraphers just out for the challenge may not have. >But I have a bit of serious photographer in me. I think we all do. But what exactly is a serious photographer? What defines that label? Where is the threshold? I think the term serious photographer may be a hair vague. >I'm not great, but I'm learning, >and as a subscriber to this list I've picked up ideas on how to get better. Well, I think that is the whole jist of what this list is about, and I think that if its purpose is working, and making someone a better photographer, we should all be happy campers. >And I'll continue to lurk as long as Mr. Cohen will let me. As well as I know Dave, and as grumpy as he can be, I know he is not out to discourage people from bettering themselves, and the hobby. I think your position is safe. >I have a feeling I'm not alone in this. I have a feeling you are correct. Rick Newton Serious Photographer, Rail Consultant, and Railfan -> SPORRS: 'Serious Photographers Of Railroad Related Subjects' -> Web Site: http://www.anet-stl.com/acphotog/sporrs/ -> Message © 1998 SPORRS® - All Rights Reserved
