Britain’s Railways Through the Lens

Our meeting in March was delighted to welcome back, well-known and respected photographer Jack Boskett, whose railway images have graced many of the leading railway magazines as well as national newspapers.

Jack learnt his craft from his father, using film first, before switching to digital. He described how his approach is to achieve the perfect image in one shot. His photos are exceptional in both their quality and composition, and he explained throughout the evening how some of these impressive views of the railway were achieved, often through many hours of planning and careful setting of the scene, other times through luck or inspiration in the moment.

A theme that Jack was keen to emphasise and indeed demonstrate through his chosen images was how he is looking for something different in his compositions. His images in black and white of steam were particularly atmospheric, and with carefully placed people or the judicious use of a smoke machine, created an atmosphere that comes alive.

There were plenty of views of the modern-day railway too in glorious colour as Jack travels across the length and breadth of Britain. Beyond the railway Jack has photographed politicians, celebrities and royalty, with many amusing anecdotes which can’t be repeated here! Some of Jack’s more recent work involved recording the troop trains to London for the coronation and scenes in London of the processions to and from Westminster Abbey.

Jack is a lively and engaging presenter, with amusing stories to share and a passion for his subject. Understanding the hours of dedication, skill and hard work that goes into capturing each of his stunning photographs makes appreciation of each image that much deeper.