I must apologize for the shortness of the blog. I have been extremely busy this month and this was the only time I could find to do one. 

In part 1 of the blog http://markspremulli.zenfolio.com/blog/2015/2/ride-the-rails-for-photography. I gave some insight as to what gear I use and techniques. In this follow up blog I will talk about the rest of the formula, namely safety and clothing. 

Clothing:

For Railroad photography I generally wear bright colors such as reds, whites and orange. You want the train crews to quickly be able to see you. So save your camo gear for when you're doing wildlife photography. I would also recommend some good comfortable shoes. I would stay away from flip flogs and sandles as they don't support your feet during the time your out shooting, and it may be necessary for you to hike out a long distance to get the location you want to shoot from. As for pants I would say a good pair of ripstop slacks such as    http://www.wrangler.com/store/WRG_STORE_US/en_US/style/3w060.html. These are the slacks I use and I love them. Comfortable plenty of pockets and I don't have too worry about ripping them while moving through undergrowth to get trackside. A ball cap or any brimmed hat will be effective in blocking the sun from your eyes. 

Safety:

The most important aspect of railroad photography is safety. A whole blog could be written about the subject. For now I will offer some pointers. One of the most important things is not to get too close to the tracks. Not only does this make train crews nervous it is a danger area for you to be in . A good rule of thumb is to remember that most tracks have 50 feet on either side of them as railroad property. Stay beyond tat and you should be fine. Another point is at no time should have anything blocking your senses, such as headphones and/or cell phones. Keep alert at all times. A third point is always have an escape plan in case something happens, GET OUT OF THERE! Also if you can communicate with the railroad office and/or train crews to let them know you will be out on the line. Finally DO NOT work on the tracks unless their is no other way to get to your photo location and if you have to walk next to them and quickly and keep alert and know the train schedules. I  hope you have enjoyed my blog post and I hope to see you trackside.