A key scene on The Downtown Spur is the point where the line crosses 12th Avenue. A major element is the Metrorail line running overhead. However, just because it’s there, should we model it? My next book will be “Realism Principles For Model Railroaders”. Give me four to six months to get it on the […]
Author: Lmind1
Strategic Omission
Adding Audio Props to Operations
Pricom’s Dream Player Lite. When I’m running a solo op. session on my layout I try to visualize what the crew would be doing along the way. This encompasses things such as allowing time for the conductor to walk, setting car brake wheels, three step protection, etc. The question becomes, how do you represent some […]
The Produce Connection
One of the signature features of Miami are the wall murals. They’re everywhere. This shot was taken on my Downtown Spur layout. You’re looking north up 22nd Avenue. The backdrop starts at the black pick-up truck. The focal point industry is called The Produce Connection and it’s just across the street from Family and Son. […]
Skill vs. Decision Making
Creating an eye-catching model of UP’s Anaheim Yard has less to do with skill than effective decision making. That being the case, doing so is within reach for even entry-level modelers. A world-class musician? Pure skill. A PGA golfer? Pure skill. Artists such as Vermeer and Hopper? The same. Exceptional model railroading results? Not so […]
How to Play With Your Trains
Getting out more often to rail fan industrial switching operations has had a direct impact on how much I enjoy operating my layout. The above shot was taken a few months ago in Annapolis Junction, MD. I was a little surprised with the response I received from my recent Operations 101 YouTube videos. What it […]