Vacant lot on the extension model of my LAJ layout. The key to realistic composition is to model the typical, the ordinary, what the eye subconsciously expects to see. In our world, a common element is the mundane vacant lot. Personally, I find these trickier to pull off than you’d think. A typical open lot […]
One of the most challenging elements of an urban layout, and one that’s important to get right, is the pavement. You’re dealing with a lot of subtle color patterns and feathered edges. The street behind the track is probably the most difficult model to build on the extension module. The sidewalks curve to the side […]
On my laundry list of projects for the early sixties version of the LAJ layout is to add to my rolling stock roster, especially what I call “plain janes”, unpretentious cars that look like they belong. Looking at prototype photos, there were more fifty-footers than forty-footers. The old Walthers Proto cars are really nice models […]
Along with half the country, I’m homebound due to the massive snow/sleet/ice storm. It’s a good excuse to get some modeling in. It’s been an interesting behavior mod. challenge for me of late, going from a lifetime of “mission mode” model railroad construction to learning to slow down and enjoy the ride. I have to […]
Slow your role Dude….visually (sheen and saturation) I mean. In the November 15th blog I discussed the importance of understanding how atmosphere and distance de-saturate subjects and also remove any gloss. Vehicles are an important element of our scenes. However, out of the box they over the top in terms of gloss and saturation. We […]