One of the traits that all photographers share is a passion for what we do. There's something about capturing an instant in time with a click of the shutter that just touches a part of us like nothing else. It's the engine for our creativity and what drives us to find new and unique ways to bring enjoyment to others through our photos. Learn more about history of photography on our website PhotographyTalk.com.
Colorado-based pro photographer Ken Smith is also a victim of that passion and has managed over the years to combine it with another of his life's loves: old trains. He's used his talents to create captivating images of steam locomotives, rail yards, roundhouses, water towers and other equipment and people involved with the operation of these old iron horses that capture the imaginations of viewers in locations like the Colorado Railroad Museum. Fortunately for us, he's also shared some of his work with us in his Photography Talk galleries.
Ken's most recent project is about to be launched to help preserve one of these old railways and its trains that run through the scenic Sierras of California. For those readers old enough to recall an old television series by the name of Petticoat Junction, the locomotive featured in the show was one of those on this line. That's only a small part of the history these old juggernauts have seen. Also check photo timeline.
The Sierra Railway Photography Project will grant, for the first time, access to all 50 miles of this still-operational historic railway and its trains to document in his photographs. Ken hopes to reignite the spark of nostalgia and romance associated with these rugged old workhorses by bringing the public beautiful new images of the railway system and its wonderfully scenic surroundings. There's more at stake than just photos, though – this State Park-owned railway is no longer funded and these trains, like so many others around the world, are at risk of being shut down for good. You can also view the post about when were cameras invented.
This blog post about the topic "Preserving a Piece of History One Spectacular Photograph at a Time" was first published on our website here https://www.photographytalk.com/photography-articles/5011-preserving-a-piece-of-history-one-spectacular-photograph-at-a-time