How to Get Better Photos aboard the Train

How to Get Better Photos aboard the Train

Traveling by train is an amazing way to see new and interesting places in North America. It is also great fun to capture photos while aboard. Once the train is moving, your phone and camera are likely to be one of the first things that you reach for. You can travel by train and take in the sights and experiences on the train, which is something you won’t be able to do by plane or car. It’s all about being in the right spot at the right moment when you travel photography. Because you won’t be restricted to a chair, you will have freedom to move about and see new perspectives as you aboard the Train to your destination.

It’s amazing to look back at the memories that you have made during your rail journey, and then share them with others. You don’t have any need for a DSLR or point and shoot camera. However, moving train photos aren’t limited by blurred landscapes and blurred colors. Here are some tips to help get the best photos and capture the beauty of America while on Amtrak.

Study the Scenery

Do some research about the scenery along your route to your destination before you board your train. Many routes offer breathtaking views from both ends of the train. On some routes, one side may be more stunning than the other. If you take the time to plan ahead (a quick Google Search will give you all the sights that are available), rivers, mountains landmarks, waterfalls wildlife and other scenic points of interests to look forward too. A great shot of an iconic view, such as the one at Mt. Shasta above!

These are some of the most spectacular routes for photographing stunning scenery from the train: The Sunset Limited Empire Builder Coast Starlight California Zephyr and Southwest Chief.

Sit at the Back (or Walk to the Back).

If you want that famous shot of a train traveling around the corner, passing through tunnels or following tracks behind the train then you will want to be near the back. This will ensure that you capture an unforgettable image.

These are some of the most spectacular routes to capture stunning scenery from the train: The Sunset Limited Empire Builder Coast Starlight California Zephyr and Southwest Chief.

Reduce unwanted window glaze

Window glare is one of the biggest challenges when taking photos of trains. Windows reflect light and noise from the carriage. They are also often very dirty.


These tips will help you increase your chances to get a great shot.

  • Place your phone or lens as close to the windows as you can without touching it.
  • If you can control the lighting in your cabin, you should do all you can to reduce interior light. Cover your phone and camera with your hand at night to block out any stray light.
  • Take a photo of the train side-by-side with the sun behind, during daylight hours, to reduce reflections and dirt.
  • These are some of the most spectacular routes for photographing stunning scenery from the train: The Sunset Limited Empire Builder Coast Starlight California Zephyr and Southwest Chief.

Find great subjects

It is a wonderful experience to travel by train because you are often surrounded with fellow travelers from around the globe. The human aspect of train travel offers you endless opportunities for capturing moments onboard. Be sure to get their permission before you snap their photo.

These are some of the most spectacular routes to capture stunning scenery from the train: The Sunset Limited Empire Builder Coast Starlight California Zephyr, Coast Starlight and Southwest Chief.

Keep Your Camera Stabilized

It doesn’t matter what kind of moment you are trying capture, it’s important to keep your camera stable to capture the best quality images possible. Even if you are just trying to photograph your meal in the Dining Car, A compact tripod can help minimize blurring. Modern collapsible tripods can be carried in a backpack and weighed less than a traditional tripod.

These are some of the most spectacular routes to capture stunning scenery from the train: The Sunset Limited Empire Builder Coast Starlight California Zephyr and Southwest Chief.

Get Off the Train

Your train journey will take you to many stations. It is a good idea to get up when the train stops. Not only are you able to stretch your legs, but also to enjoy the scenery. Pictures of beautiful people, picturesque towns, sunsets and everything else make great pictures. You’ll never know what surprises you’ll find.

These are some of the most spectacular routes for photographing stunning scenery from the train: The Sunset Limited Empire Builder Coast Starlight California Zephyr and Southwest Chief.

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