Exploring Locomotion:
A Photography Club Trip
FEBRUARY 20, 2024
Welcome! Today, I'm going to take you on a journey through Locomotion, nestled in the County Durham town of Shildon. This fantastic museum is a paradise for both railway enthusiasts and photography aficionados alike. A great place to take members of a Photography Club to share camera skills and advice!
Locomotion is a railway museum that boasts an impressive collection of vintage locomotives, carriages, and railway memorabilia. As the birthplace of the railway industry, Shildon holds a significant place in history, and Locomotion beautifully encapsulates this heritage. Upon entering, you're immediately greeted by the majestic steam engines that stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era. The museum offers a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor exhibits, ensuring there's something to capture no matter the weather - perfect for a blustery day like today!
Stepping into Locomotion feels like stepping into a bygone era, and is a treasure trove of photographic opportunities. From the intricate details of the locomotive engines to the nostalgia-inducing signage, every corner gives opportunity to be captured through the lens in so many different ways. Whatever your photographic style there's something here to inspire you! One of the highlights indoors is the carefully preserved carriages, each with its own unique story to tell. The dimly lit interiors and tricky reflections provide a perfect setting for experimenting with different lighting techniques.
It was great to offer different perspectives to club members. We discussed lead in lines, foreground use and minimising a scene: what was it that initially caught the eye, what were you drawn to before you raised the camera? For example, with the image below the initial draw was the to the texture of the hammer marks and the contrast between the bare metalwork against the blackened, painted wheel. To maintain context and scale a section of the wheel and a brake block was left in the frame.
While it's easy to get lost in capturing the grandeur of the locomotives, don't overlook the beauty and abstract opportunities in the details. The worn-out textures of rusted metal, the years of wear and maintenance marks hammered into heavy industrial machinery and soft seating fabrics alike – these are the elements that can elevate your photographs from mere snapshots to pieces for publication, or a space on your wall.Â
One technique to try is abstract photography, where you focus on capturing shapes, patterns, and textures rather than identifiable subjects. Look for interesting angles, play with depth of field, and experiment with unconventional compositions to create visually striking images that invite the viewer to ponder and interpret.
Exploring Locomotion in Shildon is not just a photography excursion; it's a journey through time and history. Whether you're drawn to the grandeur of steam engines or the subtlety of textures and details, there's something for every photographer to discover and capture. So grab your camera, pack your creative spirit, and embark on a photography adventure that will not only hone your skills but also leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty that lies in the industrial past of County Durham.Â
Happy shooting!