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How many times did a conductor holler this from the steps, as passengers looked out these windows? Did soldiers watch their hometowns recede, or excited kids t...
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How many times did a conductor holler this from the steps, as passengers looked out these windows? Did soldiers watch their hometowns recede, or excited kids thrill to the sound of a steam whistle? Did the Gambler breath his last while looking out these windows and listening to the rumble of the wheels?
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Apr, 2016Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
I was on a temporary work assignment at a new hospital in Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin. I was working nights, so after taking a nap one morning, I headed out with my camera to explore a bit. There's a road that runs along the Mississippi river, and I found lots of things to check out!Time
If I remember right, I found the train cars mid-afternoon. I had left myself enough time to explore without rushing, so it was a lot of fun!Lighting
The morning had started sunny, and I was excited about it, but then the afternoon had slowly become hazy, then overcast. I was concerned that my photo chances were going downhill, but it turned out that the colors popped more than expected.Equipment
I used my Canon T3i, with an 18-55 mm, without flash. I often use an inexpensive monopod, but didn't for this shot.Inspiration
I have always loved trains. My grandfather was an engineer who started on steam engines, and ran for 30 years. I also like stories, and when I saw this car, I was instantly curious; what happened here? Did a carpet-bagger spend the night watching out the window for the right town to sell his wares? How many young kids were told to "sit down" as they excitedly took their first trip? Did some young soldier nearly fall out a window while throwing a kiss to a girl getting smaller on the distant platform? I could hear the muted music as the wheels rumbled over the connections in the tracks...Editing
I rarely do much changing to my pictures afterword, usually preferring to see it as it was. I will occasionally do a little cropping or brightening, but I don't think I did either with this picture.In my camera bag
I carry a Tamrac Velocity 7 bag, with my Canon T3i usually holstered with the 18-55 mm zoom on it. To the left of that fits my 55-250 mm zoom, and to the right sits an Altura flash unit. In the front pocket are my cords and a little flat pack with multiple SD cards, spare battery, and tripod mount plate. In a small top pocket ride a small Mag-lite flash light and spare batteries. I have aspirations of doing a camera outfit upgrade in the next year, but we'll see if that happens!Feedback
First, don't be afraid to explore. My camera goes everywhere with me, even on the ambulance, in case I'm stuck on a standby for an extended time. Don't be afraid of changing conditions or cloudy days; you may surprised at what you get! Look around you always for the stuff the locals are used to and don't even notice any more. Have fun!
