Photographing Trains . . .

[RJSorensen]

I have been wondering lately which focus mode would be the best to take pictures of trains? This is trains on the move, generally toward me, usually at a stead rate of approach. I have used one shot . . . well always. However I have wondered if AI Servo would work better?

Anyway I am putting this to the forum for the combined thoughts and or experience regarding this or something near. Perhaps car racing or other such?

My kind regards and thanks to those whom are able to help and or comment. ;)

[belmondo]

I usually use AI Servo, and fire in burst of two or three shots. The second frame is usually better.

This is one of the best discussions you'll find on the subject of railroad photography, and I seem to be putting this link up at least once a week. If you've seen it before, my apologies.

http://www.grumpysworld.com/photoguide/photoguide.htm

Note: I should mention that there is some salty language in his presentations, so be prepared. (Nothing that a guy from Wyoming hasn't heard many times before.)

[Tom W]

Depends - trains close around here are usually slow, and I'm usually at f/8 or f/11 so I have a little leeway in the focus area - I tend to shoot those with one-shot.

On faster tracks, I'd be more inclined to use Servo.

To be honest, I haven't experimented enough with it to really make the best observation. It wasn't but 2-3 years ago that I was manually prefocusing on a spot and waiting for the train to get there, only to find that I'd forgotten to advance the film. Technology has the advantage right now.

[RJSorensen]

Yes I agree Tom . . . I seem to be stuck in the past, with the tools of the future in my hands. But with the resources here, someone has invented and or found the wheel and one only need read, after you ask. Then try to see what works for you and your gear best

Thanks for the link as well . . . lol, I will give it a try.

[robertwgross]

Belmondo, which mode did you use on the shot of the yellow UP locomotive that I saw in the camera shop?

---Bob Gross---

[belmondo]

I don't remember. I usually shoot AI Servo, but occasionally will use single shot, espeically when I'm half asleep and forget to change the camera.