Let's get on the right track: Taking pictures on train tracks is dangerous and against the law

Taking photos on train tracks is dangerous and illegal. Photo courtesy: Operation Life Saver

Picture this (pun intended) — it’s time for you or your loved ones to get professional photos taken. Many people are tempted to have their photos with train tracks as a background setting. Who wouldn’t be? The symbolism of train tracks receding into the distance and the optical illusion that they create can represent so many exciting moments in life. Perhaps a wedding is on the horizon, or even a new member of the family will arrive soon or maybe a high school senior just wants to have something that represents their future.

Whatever the reason, it is important to understand that not only is it dangerous to take photos on train tracks, it is also illegal.

According to Operation Life Saver’s website, every three hours a person or vehicle is struck by a train. In 2014, 500 people lost their lives while trespassing on train tracks.  In Kansas this year, there have been approximately 90 crashes at railroad crossings.

According to Operation Life Saver, it can take the length of 18 football fields to stop a train. That means trains do not have the ability to stop quickly to avoid hitting people or vehicles.

As mentioned earlier, train tracks create an optical illusion. The perspective of the tracks receding into the distance can make it hard to tell exactly how far a train is away from you. It can be difficult to know how fast a train is really going.

It is also very unsafe to take photos near the train tracks. Trains hang over the tracks by at least three feet, and the force and speed they go by adds to the danger as well.

No tracks should be assumed to be abandoned, and many of them are considered private property by yards and rights of way — even if you don’t see a “No Tresspassing” sign.  

If you must have train tracks as part of your photography, reach out to local railroad museums and ask them if they would be willing to host a photo shoot. Some private railyards may have options as well, but may require permission before use. Remember, if you do take photos with permission to always acknowledge that fact if you share them online or with family. People like to mimic what looks cool, and they could put their lives in danger. See tracks, think train.

There are many ways you improve safety while taking photos. Other exciting photo opportunities exist out there if you know where to look. Here are a few ideas:

• Well-shaded areas in parks: Playground equipment creates a nostalgic and whimsical setting and the photographer can create some really fun images with different angles and perspectives. If you find a park with a foot bridge, it can create a similar effect to train tracks. Some parks have flower gardens, which are great backdrop accessories.
• Rustic buildings: Taking a photo against a brick wall inside may not be terribly exciting. But if you venture to an older part of town and find historical buildings with chipped stone, paint deterioration and even bricks, you may find that the added texture can create a fun element.
• Staircases: Like railroad tracks, staircases can also represent change and new beginnings. Depending on the angle, you can achieve a cool perspective and illusion.
• Museums: Some museums allow visitors to schedule photoshoots on their grounds. Call ahead and ask your favorite museum if that is an option.
• The great outdoors: Be original! Explore the nooks and crannies of the world around you. 

For more information about Operation Life Saver and to find out how you can be safer around train tracks, visit www.OLI.org.