In another attempt to escape modelers, here is a group of photos taken vertically. I don't know about you, but I have entered Railfan and Railroad's "Cover Contest" more than once. Probably never got close to the finals. Last weekend attended a photographer's special at the Sumpter Valley Narrow Gauge in Eastern Oregon. Many locations there, especially with their steam locomotives looking like volcanoes with great steam and smoke plumes, beg for vertical shots. What do you think, should I enter again? SV 19 meeting SV 3, dawn. Another dawn shot. SV19 reflecting. SV 3 Reflecting.
For a magazine cover, the third one is the only option. You need empty space at the top for the title and a square at the bottom for the UPC. The third one is best composed for this. The first two have too much dark space to be used on a cover. You need colors to sell magazines. The last one lacks a universal appeal. There aren't too many people who see a Shay or Climax and assocate that with big-time railroading.
Speaking as a modeler I still think they all look fine By all means enter some shots for cover use, nothing ventured.......
Jim, the first one is best for a Calander, the third is best for a magazine cover for the same reasons Brian gave, and the third and fourth shots would be good for a book cover. Excellent choice of subject composition in all of these!
