Experiences not gear. A while ago I wrote about whether experiences or more gear would be beneficial to us as photographers. I also said I would be putting my money where my mouth is. So here are some photos from an experience I had for my birthday, along the Fort William to Mallaig railway line.

We started off on this:

Loco 45212

First Class

Went through here:

Glenfinnan

And ended up along here:

Glenfinnan Viaduct

The ‘Harry Potter’ bridge or its more correct name The Glenfinnan Viaduct on the West Highland Line in the Scottish Highlands. In the film its pictured from the other side. This image was actually taken on the return journey. If you’ve ever tried to take photos from a train carriage you will realise how many reflections there are 🙂

If your a railway enthusiast, at least in the UK you will be familiar with this line in Scotland.

It’s very popular:

It’s a bun fight to get near the loco

So what do you take photos of when you cant get near the engine? Well if your me, you look at the stuff other people aren’t taking photos of:

Coupling

Workings

Nameplate

One Final shot

OK I’ll stop there for those of you not into trains as much as I am.

The weather on this particular day was gloomy and overcast, we had to take a chance because we pre booked the tickets.

According to my wife though, it didn’t detract from my excitement 🙂

Should you fancy a trip along the Fort William to Mallaig railway you can find out more information at http://www.westcoastrailways.co.uk/jacobite/jacobite-steam-train-details.cfm

Arrive early in Fort William because you may have a longer walk from the car park than you think and it can get busy.

For at least part of the journey put the camera down, take in the scenery and enjoy the experience.

You’ll be surprised at how smooth travelling on a steam train is.

(Camera / lens: Nikon 1 V1, 10mm, last image Iphone SE)