When doing prototype research for layout design, we all rely heavily upon online aerial photos. Such imagery is invaluable. However….it’s crucial to understand the limitations of this approach. You miss a lot. The above shot, taken in Vernon, CA shows where the Harbor Subdivision splits off of the main near 25th and 26th Streets. At first glance, there really isn’t anything that noteworthy, right? Actually, that’s not the case and therein lies the problem.
As deep dive, model railroad writing goes, I’m not sure anything will ever eclipse the quality and depth of the seven-part V&O series written by Allen McClelland and Tony Koester in the 1970s. Within the articles, a constant theme emerged. In order to pull off a plausible representation of Appalachian railroading, it was crucial to visit the region and visit it often….and so they did. Wiser advice was never written as it applies to layout design. It is simply impossible to capture the vibe of a place without visiting it. Relying solely on sitting on one’s rump in front of a computer screen will most certainly result in missing crucial key pieces. It will limit you from experiencing your theme to the extent that you could. It will limit the quality and success of your design.
This reality was brought front and center on my recent trip to LA. If you look at the lead aerial, nothing really jumps out at you. The problem is this: there is a LOT there that doesn’t stand out in the aerial.
I’ve taken the lead photo and highlighted areas that don’t stand out in the aerials, but are fairly impressive in person.
26th and Minerva Avenue facing south towards Reliance Steel. You’d never guess from online photos there was so much of value from a modeling standpoint in that area.
It’s difficult to capture the towering mass of Reliance Steel in photographs. It…is…gigantic!
The above three images were taken in the vicinity of 25th, 26th, and Minerva Avenue. This several-block area is loaded with texture that would be easy to overlook.
Like everybody, I had spent dozens of hours studying aerials of the Harbor Subdivision in contemplating it as a theme for a new layout. After visiting it in person, I was taken aback by how much I’d missed….the model worthiness of Harbor Junction, the 25th/26th/Minerva scenes, I could go on and on.
Most of my readers are very immersed in the hobby. It brings them immense satisfaction. Given the importance it plays in our lives, it makes sense to invest in doing it right….and that means buying playing tickets, and putting boots on the ground. Seeing our subject in person. Making discoveries. Gaining a sense for its size, vibe, and geographic relationships. It’s one of the best experiences life has to offer, I promise.