Railfan & Railroad has officially launched its 2025 Center Spread Contest, inviting photographers to submit their most compelling railroad images. The winning photograph will be featured in the September 2025 issue, offering enthusiasts a chance to showcase their work to a broad audience.
Railfan & Railroad Center Spread Contest: Submission Guidelines
Participants can submit up to three horizontal-format photographs, focusing on any railroad subject, regardless of when the photo was taken. Submissions must be made electronically via the magazine’s FTP server; email or physical submissions are not accepted. Interested photographers should contact Editor Steve Barry at editor@railfan.com for upload instructions.
Judging Criteria and Prizes
The contest emphasizes creativity, composition, lighting, and unique perspectives. Judges are particularly drawn to images that offer a fresh take on railroad photography. The Grand Prize winner will receive $100, with two Runners-Up each earning $60, and several Honorable Mentions awarded $30 each.
Insights from Past Winners
Reflecting on previous contests can provide valuable inspiration:
- 2024 Winner: Brian Caswell captured a newly purchased SD70MACH 513 crossing Canal Street in downtown Chicago, highlighting the dynamic interplay between urban infrastructure and railroads.
- 2023 Winner: Todd Halamka’s photograph showcased a westbound manifest freight overtaking a commuter train in Riverside, Illinois, emphasizing the layered complexity of rail traffic.
- 2022 Winner: Eugene Armer’s image of a CSX freight silhouetted against a sunrise over the Hudson River demonstrated the power of natural lighting in railroad photography.
Tips for Aspiring Contestants
To enhance your chances of success:
- Focus on Creativity: Seek unique angles or moments that offer a new perspective on familiar scenes.
- Mind the Composition: Ensure that elements within the frame guide the viewer’s eye effectively.
- Utilize Lighting: Natural light can dramatically affect the mood and clarity of your photograph.
- Tell a Story: Aim to capture images that convey a narrative or evoke emotion.
Engage with the Railfan Community
Participating in the Railfan & Railroad Center Spread Contest offers more than just the opportunity to win prizes; it’s a chance to connect with a community passionate about railroad photography. Engage with fellow enthusiasts, share experiences, and gain inspiration from others’ work.
Ready to showcase your railroad photography skills? Submit your entries to the Railfan & Railroad Center Spread Contest and be part of a celebrated tradition in the railfan community.