The transition from layout to backdrop is dicey even under the best of circumstances. Moving from a three dimensional flat layout surface to a two dimensional backdrop surface perpendicular to the eye, typically leaves the viewer with the subconscious nagging that “this just isn’t real”. If we are lucky we model a rural area and can […]
Here’s a map of the prototype area I finally chose to use as the basis for the LAJ switching layout. It took quite a few hours of (enjoyable) virtual rail fanning via Google Maps and Bing Maps to finally settle on a location. I’m satisfied, however, that I’ve finally found an area that embodies the look […]
How do you learn how to compose a scene? It’s a very pertinent question and one that was asked by a visitor that dropped by today. It was also a hard one to answer because it’s more art than science, more of “I know it’s right when I see it” sort of thing. Scene composition […]
Since finishing the bench work for my LAJ switching layout I’ve been playing around with scene composition and a variety of design ideas. Nothing really got me excited enough to commit. The reality is that the vast majority of the modern day LAJ just doesn’t make for a compelling modeling subject. Like much of […]
Most participants in model railroading, as with any leisure pursuit, are looking for a casual creative outlet, a break from the everyday without any overriding compulsion to be a master at it. This is as it should be and I point it out without any condescension. I enjoy surfing and playing basketball and can say in […]