Re: A free country but...

The Chama-to-Cumbres Pass segment of the railroad presents some significant challenges to the operators of photographic freight charters. The legendary 4% grade provides some of the world's best photo opportunities of steam engines working hard, but it is also a public, and therefore relatively uncontrolled stage. It's also a place with technicial challenges that are not immediately apparent to everyone who comes to Chama to chase. Of course, the best situation on any charter is to have the patrons ride the train and perform run-bys at the very best locations. On the run to Cumbres, that would put the patrons between the chasers and the train and for the patrons at least, the problem is solved. Unfortunately, you can't really do traditional run-bys on the 4%. Brake system retainers need to be set when the train backs downhill, and the process is very time-consuming. In addition, many of the best spots are private land, and some of the land-owners have elected not to allow the use of their property. Lastly, some of the best shots really are from the road, because of the elevation....no kidding.

Most of the reputable charter operators have figured out that on the run to Cumbres Pass, there is no percentage in putting the patrons on the train. The chasers get better shots than the patrons, and the folks who actually paid for the train don't get what they paid for. That means the patrons have to chase (which was the case here), and it brings them into conflict with the non-patron chasers. Honestly, the traffic safety problems are the biggest concern, not the "ruined" photos. This charter was kept relatively quiet, but I have seen what can happen with some of the more public events, and it is amazing that no one has been hurt.

I think that several contributors, notably Mike Shade and John Cole, have provided the best advice. Whether folks paid or didn't pay, they all need to show some consideration for their fellow human beings. That means being ultra careful when driving from spot to spot. It also means being careful where you park your car so as not to foul anyone's shot, and keeping your head on a swivel to ensure you're not in the way of other photographers. It can mean compromising and going with a crowd or a more experienced photographer rather than clinging to your personal vision, when the latter puts you in the way. It can also mean aborting on a shot if your plan is going to cause problems for others or result in an unsafe situation. No shot is worth getting someone hurt, wrecking someone's property or getting a crowd upset with you. Lastly, it means being ready to forgive when someone else does make a mistake. We have ALL screwed up more than once in this passionate hobby, and it is not the end of the world. I have numerous shots from the charter and other events of the last week that were "fouled" in one way or another by chasers and charter participants alike. Most are fixable with Photoshop and that's what I will do.

Let me give a special shout-out to Alan Loomis, who was our Conductor on the charters last week. He shouldered a ton of responsibility keeping us all safe, being ready for the unexpected....which happens a lot in this business, and getting us all great shots at the same time. He's a great asset to this railroad and deserves all of our thanks!

I had a great time in NG land over the last 8 days. I spent lots of $$$, hopefully helped the local economy just a bit and have some great photos to play with. Most importantly, I got to spend time with lots of friends, new and old, who share my passions for history and steam railroad photography. I can't think of a better way to spend the vacation days that my employer gives me!

/Kevin Madore