Last year, Postcard Cafe, a blog I follow, posted a number of pieces featuring photographs made on train journeys. The first of these I came across was a post titled “Jumping someone else’s train” and I commented on their post how I liked the idea and that I might borrow it at some point.
Today’s post is the first attempt at doing something along similar lines (badum-tish!).
If I’m to be critical, then Postcard Cafe’s posts are much better than my attempt here, but I’ll admit to making life more difficult for myself by a) using a compact film camera that struggled with camera shake, and b) attempting to fit picture making in around some work I had to do on the train, thereby probably missing some opportunities (plus I had a window-frame next to my seat, which limited my field of view somewhat too). Anyway, enough with my excuses and on to the photos.
For the purposes of this post, I’ve limited my photos to ones taken station-to-station. I shall also leave them without narrative, and just let them tell whatever story you see fit to make up. They are in chronological order though, both outbound and homeward.
Pentax Espio 140M & Kentmere 400.
Taken on 15 January 2020
Steel City Snapper photography 
These are great (despite making it slightly more difficult for yourself). All things considered and knowing how difficult it can be to capture these images I think you’ve some great shots.
The first image works really well and encourages the viewer to fathom out what is going on or maybe consider how the photograph was taken. A bit of intrigue and a lovely shot. I like the shots which have people where some are still and others with some motion blur. They make very appealing images (something for me to consider next time I’m out on a train journey).
You did well to capture the old Gasometers (which now contain offices or apartments) at Kings Cross/St Pancras. Knowing the location it looks like you had perfect timing and also great light for the shot.
Individually I enjoyed every shot and together they make a great set.
Thanks for the nod to my blog and I’m pleased you were inspired to give it a go.
I am often inspired by the blogs I follow and it’s one of the things I enjoy about WordPress.
Not sure if you are interested but I in my most recent posts I have included a link to the Mass Observation Project. The theme is January Blues and open for interpretation in any way you choose. It’s not one of my projects but I will be contributing to it. It’s a nice idea and I hope Richard (who organises it) will do more. Sharing ideas and images through the project is a great way to make the internet feel less like a virtual vacuum!
Hope you are having a great weekend
Best wishes
Mr C 🙂
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Thanks Mr C, appreciate your kind words. The shot of the gasometer appartments also benefits from the train not moving too quickly by that stage of its journey). I also quite like the shots with motion blur, but less so the ones where the slow shutter speed has resulted in camera shake (although one might say the last two images accurately reflect my heavy eyes following a long day :)).
I’ve seen your posts for the January Blues Mass Observation project. If I can find something suitable I might send it in (I’ll have to be quick though – I think it closes for entries on Wednesday by the looks of things).
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I think the joy of the train journey pictures is that the idea almost gives us permission to let go of some of the rules and techniques to which we often adhere. It can feel liberating to know it’s a new set of rules 🙂
I genuinely enjoyed all your shots.
I have just sent my submission to the mass observation project and I’m keeping it under wraps until after it appears on the project blog. It’s interesting that I ended up wrestling between two images as to which one I should send. I suspect my entry will divide opinion but as I said to Richard in my email perhaps that’s not a bad thing🙂
Have a great week
Mr C
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I’ll keep my eyes peeled for your submission.
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