The cement train was a deception, but there was still time to make up for it with a nice photo of a passenger train. My local guides lead the way, and in no time we could set up our gear in a field in Turcianske Teplice, in time for a train coming from Banska Bystrica. The line from Banska Bystrica looks impressive, judging by the … Continue reading Passenger in the woods
This is the shot I wanted to make in Slovakia. It all was perfect, until… As happens so often, the sun disappeared behind the clouds right when the train is there. It was a matter of seconds before it would be back, but of course the train wouldn’t wait. 6 disappointed photographers… however, I am glad I made the photo. I’ll have to return another … Continue reading A reason to come, and to return
Back to Horna Stubna, to check what action can be expected next. THere was not much asking involved, as we saw this train running into the station. This is the train I came to Slovakia for: cement train 55721 from Lietavská Lúčka to Zemianske Kostoľany, pulled by 3 Bardotka engines. Some people see a similarity between the locomotive’s nose and Brigitte Bardot, hence the nickname. Continue reading Meeting up with Brigitte Bardot
Next up was a cargo train to and from Horna Stubna. We chose the town of Turcek to make the photo’s. The first train was so and so: flat cars, hidden behind a bush… it was more like a bonus though, because the train from Horna Stubna was right on: nicely in the curve, beautiful background, and a nice train consist. Continue reading Local freights
Next stop: the station of Horna Stubna. Research showed that a freight train could be arriving, hauled by 3 Bardotka locomotives. Upon arrival, I knew I as right… but only caught the 3 loose engines heading back to Zilina. Tough luck. Upside is that I met 2 local photographers, who were so kind to show me around. They know the region and the traffic very … Continue reading Meeting up with the locals
It took a lot longer than expected to get to my hotel close to Zilina, Slovakia. The road was narrow, full of curves and rather busy. I did enjoy, though, and I enjoyed the warm dish and the spacious room at the hotel even more. The next day, I had planned a day on the non-electrified railway lines around Horna Stubna, hoping to see some … Continue reading First encounter
Long driving around finally brought me to a spot between Ceska Trebova and Zabreh. I was expecting quite some traffic here. After a massive rain shower, time I prefered spending in the car, I set up tripod and camera in this field close to Hostejn. The train festival broke loose, I shot one train after another until I grew tired of it and the light … Continue reading After the shower
Only a short walk from the previous location, you have a nice view on a modern bridge and a town in the background. Again, it was a good place to wait for a while, so below again a selection of what I saw. Continue reading Still more like it
What makes a photo location a good one? Among my criteria are a nice landscape as back- or foreground, no clutter like communication masts or fences, and “peace and quiet”. You don’t see the last criterium on the photo, but it makes the waiting nice. Add a little sunshine and some interesting trains, and I may be tempted to stick around for a while… even … Continue reading More like it
One of the most recent Skoda electrics hauls an international train from Prague to Zilina through the curves around Bezpravi. Most of the trains here are loco-hauled – very interesting for us railfans. Only exception I saw were the Leo-express Flirt trains, but those are actually quite nice to look at. Continue reading Recent Skoda power
Railscapes 