There’s something about the rails that draw photographers and videographers—professional and amateur—looking for that beautiful backdrop! In honor of Photographer Appreciation Month we want to take this opportunity to remind you that tracks are for trains not photo shoots.
No photograph is worth risking your life. The number of serious incidents including injuries and fatalities linked to selfies is alarmingly increasing. A study by The Swiftest has identified railroad tracks/train as the third most dangerous locale for taking selfies and not a safe setting for photography such as graduation pictures or engagement photos. In fact taking photos or filming on the tracks could result in a dangerous situation—potentially even a fatal one.
Entering the track area for any reason is not only dangerous it’s also illegal and considered trespassing. Engineers are not expecting trespassers to be in the train’s right-of-way aka the tracks. Even if an engineer sees a trespasser on the tracks the train cannot come to an immediate stop. There’s no slamming on the brakes or swerving out of the way.
No one should ever assume that there is a time when tracks are completely clear of train traffic. A train can come on any track at any time in any direction. The majority of train-related incidents are preventable—it’s called staying off the tracks.
Taking photos and videos on platforms can also be dangerous. Tripods can be tripping hazards to passengers entering and exiting trains. And lights on cameras and flashes can also be a distraction to or momentarily blind engineers.
SEPTA welcomes photographers and videographers who safely take photos or video of the Authority’s vehicles and stations. For information on SEPTA’s film and video policy click here!