I haven’t been very inspired to photograph trains, so I try to jump on any inspiration I do have. On June 26, 2024 I noticed that the eastbound Canadian was coming, I saw it was a lovely evening, and I decided to make some pictures.
Heading west on the Trans-Canada Highway, I encountered an eastbound train near Dacotah. I pulled off the road and shot the train across a bright canola field. The sky was pretty featureless, so just for fun I replaced the sky with one from a dozen years ago:
I love the image! I feel that it’s important to disclose that it’s a composite image and isn’t a “real” photograph.
Anyway. Onward.
Fortier
Approaching Oakville, I encountered another eastbound CN train, at Fortier, mile 38.
Miles of containers, stretching off into infinity.
Weathered telegraph poles, still standing, decades after the wires fell silent.
It was a beautiful evening to see trains.
The Canadian
It is a privilege to be able to see this train. I remember the years of living in Fredericton, New Brunswick with no trains within a 45 minute drive. Now I can hop in a car and within 45 minutes I can see 2 or 3 trains… and this stainless steel beauty comes through the city a few times a week.
Mission accomplished.
Time to head for home… but CN had more trains for me.
Elie
I overtook CN 8880 East and photographed it in Elie, passing the Blessed Sacrament Parish church. I’ve tried to make this photograph a few times, but I haven’t quite captured it the way I would like.
Continuing toward Winnipeg, I photographed the same train from a distance.
One more time, same train, near mile 15.
For Variety, a Westbound Train
Backtracking a bit to mile 17.8, I set up for a westbound train in that sweet, sweet setting sun. This was 9:17 PM. Thank goodness for long summer evenings.
The sun was still above the horizon, so I pivoted and shot straight into it. *blink* *blink*
That was a lot of trains.
Back to mile 15, and the mosquitos were coming out in squadrons.
One Last Eastbound Train
The bugs were flying and buzzing around me – thankfully I had bug spray in the car – so I launched my own flying device to capture CN 8932 East rolling past.
Wrapping it Up
I was “well pleased” with this excursion. Not only did I see the Canadian in Oakville – a new location for VIA for me – but I also bagged five other trains. It beats sitting on the couch.
Your photography is always stunning. Great shots, thanks for sharing
After a day like this, we realize it was wothwhile getting off that couch and railfanning. I know I often have trouble with that first push but once I get outside it’s ok.
What kind of camera did you use for these shots ?