There has been a lot of discussion about the types of cameras we use. Some of us shoot with "pro" cameras, some use point & shoot, others use their old manual SLR. We generally agree it doesn't matter which camera we use, as long as we are pleased with the results and we get the shots we want. The main concern is that you are comfortable with your camera, and that it is dependable. Yes, this is leading to a short story............
Since the weather has been so mild here in New York City, I went over to Amtrak's Sunnyside Yard last Thursday afternoon just to grab some shots. For fun, I used my 26-year-old Minolta XK, which was Minolta's top-of-the-line camera in the mid-1970's. Set up opposite "Q"-Tower on a public stairway, I got the usual shots of electric trains passing right next to me, headed for NY Penn Station. However, at about 4:15, here comes an Amtrak Genesis unit pulling a Hudson Line train. As he slowly approaches, an Amtrak Metroliner stops on the adjacent track. Already posing for me is a New Jersey Transit train, led by a new AEM-44 electric. So, I'll have a shot of the Genesis diesel right in the middle of these two electrics, all perfectly lit. Just as the Genesis train gets into position, an Amtrak express from New England passes by on the elevated trackage to the left. Four trains in one scene! I push the shutter release, the shutter opens, and STAYS OPEN! For some reason, the auto-exposure system got jammed! I stand there in shock and disappointment as the Genesis engineer waves at me and pulls by, the New England train disappears, and the other trains slowly depart. If I had been using any other DEPENDABLE camera, (and I own plenty of them), I would have gotten the shot. Doesn't matter if the camera costs $5 or $5000, you have to "get the shot". Will I use the Minolta XK again? Yes, but if it's an important shot I'll set the exposure system to "manual" instead of automatic. Any similar stories out there? Bernie Ente Maspeth NY [EMAIL PROTECTED] _____________________________________________________________________ You don't need to buy Internet access to use free Internet e-mail. Get completely free e-mail from Juno at http://www.juno.com Or call Juno at (800) 654-JUNO [654-5866] -> SPORRS: 'Serious Photographers Of Railroad Related Subjects' -> Web Site: http://www.anet-stl.com/acphotog/sporrs/ -> Message © 1998 SPORRS® - All Rights Reserved
