Re: A Last-Minute Stocking Stuffer: Snow Goose on the D&S

I wish someone from the D&S would explain this:

"D&SNGRR Policy on Commercial Use of Photographs:
The Photographer's Specials are intended to provide a unique photography and railroading experience for all. Photographs taken by individuals on this excursion are solely for the use of the private individual and may not be used for commercial purposes without the express written consent of the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Company. For specific usage requests and requirements, please contact D&SNGRR at (970) 259-0274. Trademark Licensing Agreements will be available onboard."

I've done charters all over the country and no other railroad puts such restrictions on what the photographer can do with the images he/she captures. There are very few folks who make a living taking railroad photos, but if an opportunity should come along from a magazine or calendar to publish a photo, it shouldn't take a herd of lawyers to make it happen. Outside of some rare circumstances, the photographer will be lucky to get more than a couple of hundred dollars for the use of an image, and many magazines pay far less. Some pay nothing at all. It's not like a rider on one of these trips is taking any money away from the railroad and it's not like the railroad hasn't been paid for the privilege of taking the photo in the first place.

Very off-putting, at least in my humble opinion.

/Kevin Madore