People

I have been wondering about what I want to photograph longer term and what I think I am good at photographing. It's people I reckon, children especially. It became apparent to me this afternoon on the platform of Llangollen train station.

Mrs H and I had our last few hours in Wales without the kids and the weather Gods were kind to us and held off the rain. After checking out of the B&B we drove to Llangollen for a potter (there's that middle-age again!). A super contrast to yesterday's poor, rainy results in Betws-y-Coed :) Lots of interesting shops, nice food and things to see - including a steam train or two.

There were tons of train people taking pictures of the engine as it chuffed in and out, but I found myself focusing on all the people associated with the train - I needed a human element. I did get a couple of the train, but when reviewing the shots, the ones with people in got me going a lot more. This porter ducked and moved out of the way when he saw me pointing a camera - he assumed I was trying to get the train and he thought he was in my way and apologised. When I told him it was him I was actually wanting a picture of he looked quite surprised (pleasantly, don't let his expression fool you). Fortunately he gave me a couple of seconds to snap this one before getting back to his duties.

The platform had that wonderful smell of steam trains, but the smell of passion was much stronger. I am by no means a train nerd, but the attention to detail and care taken to keep the trains, station, uniforms, decor and everything there was very evident and a credit to all those involved. Pleasing to see something so wonderful maintained and run for admiration and enjoyment rather than profit. Dedicated, committed and admirable attitude.