How To Model Train Layouts How to photograph a model train layout

How to photograph a model train layout

By Angela Cotey | January 7, 2016

| Last updated on January 18, 2021


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Howtophotographamodelrailroad
Brooks Stover took this photo on his Buffalo Creek & Gauley model train layout.
Brooks Stover has had many articles and photos published in Model Railroader magazine. In this easy-to-follow guide Brooks will give you some tips for taking better digital photos of model trains and layout scenes. Click on the link below to download the free model railroad digital photography guide.

22 thoughts on “How to photograph a model train layout

  1. It is certainly amazing what point and shoot digitals can do compared to the days when we had to have special lenses and other equipment. However, they are not created equal, even the higher-end ones. One mistake I made some years ago with the selection of an expensive point and shot from a well know manufacturer (known for very sharp lenses) should be highlighted. It's a great camera that takes sharp, high pixel photographs. But to my horror, I discovered when I entered in the realm of model photography is that it does not manually focus in the macro (close-up) mode! That's very sad for model photography! Perhaps this problem was addressed with later cameras, but I ward burned.

  2. Certainly some good info! I also wonder if it would apply to smart phone cameras. Regardless, good to have.

  3. Good to know. I wonder if this would also work with smartphone cameras, or just the regular type?

  4. Excellent Article! Kudos! My two left thumbs are going to try, try, try. Now even my nice little Cannon Power Shot has fallen under the " But now it's for Trains, Honey", Confiscation Rule. Uh-oh, gotta go. I'm getting "THE LOOK". Thanks, Honestly!

  5. Super job, Brooks. I especially like the fact that you explained why smaller cameras can be used just as effectively as the large, expensive ones.

  6. Thank you. I will definately try some of these as I complete the progression of my layout.

  7. This is a highly actionable guide to model railroad photography, which has already proved useful in several ways, including camera selection. Thank you, Brooks, for the considerable effort this required.

  8. I have tried in the past to take pictures of my model trains, without much success. This article is a great help on how to use your camera and take proper photos.

  9. This is a great guide for a novice like me! Thanks for making it available to save as a PDF.

  10. Very interesting. Excellent reminder of the basics of photography styles that we tend to forget.
    Thank you.

  11. I am working on large O gauge layout and have been photographing it to document progress. I have now developed an interest in photographing my layout which matches my interest in building it. I just purchased a Canon t4I and this article is exactly what I needed to increase my knowledge. Thanks for the excellent article.

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