When and where are rail enthusiasts / trainspotters most active at Clapham Junction Station?

Question

I am a photographer and am trying to capture images of trainspotters / rail enthusiasts engaged in their activity. Ideally I would like to use Clapham Junction Station as the setting for these pictures. I can only do this during the next four weeks so I am trying to ascertain whether there is a 'peak time' or 'season' for this activity, or whether they may be found there most of the time. Are there certain platforms that are likely to have more than others? Are there any special events in the next four weeks that may attract many? Any practical information such as potential problems with photography at stations would also be appreciated, indeed any suggestions at all would be very gratefully received!

Answer 1

There is a steam special tomorrow*, the 11 January that goes through Clapham Junction so I should imagine there will be quite a number of spotters around. The timing is available here:- http://www.uksteam.info/tours/trs08.htm

This page will also give details of any other specials in the next four weeks. I would guess that apart from that, the peak time will be weekends when people aren't working. As for the platform they will be on, just go and look.

Photography on stations is something of a fraught issue at the present as you can come across the odd 'jobsworth' who will tell you it isn't allowed. I would suggest you have a look at this page, and print it out to show to anyone who may object:-

http://www.btp.police.uk/railenthusiasts...

*Later - I mean on Friday! It's only Wednesday today.

Later later:- n_gined is wrong to state categorically that permission is required. IT IS NOT provided it is for personal use only. It is concerning that he states that he is railway staff, yet he does not appear to be aware of the guidelines which have been much publicised in both the railway and photographic press. I quote from that  BT Police advice referred to earlier. Do not let anyone tell you permission is required if you are operating within those guidelines:-

'Taking photographs on stations is permitted providing it is for personal use. For any commercial photography, prior permission must be sought from the appropriate train operator or, from Network Rail at their 17 major stations. On busy stations the use of a tripod may cause a dangerous obstruction to passengers and you may be asked not to use one. In addition, tripod legs must also be kept away from platform edges and behind the yellow lines. Flash photography on platforms is not allowed as it may distract the attention of train drivers and train despatch staff and is therefore a potential safety hazard. You are also not allowed to take photographs of security related equipment such as CCTV cameras.'

I do accept that the guidelines also state that you should notify the Station Manager of your presence. However, this is as a matter of courtesy and NOT, I must emphasise again, to obtain 'permission'.

Answer 2

Rdenig sums it up well - anytime a railtour or special train comes through there's always a few more - though these are more of the camera toting types, and less the notebook scribblers.

Platform 11 is always popular as most of the action can be seen from there, being central. Best times to see spotters etc. would be during the middle of weekdays, and anytime on Saturdays. Sundays are not very popular as fewer trains run, and very little freight.

You would be well advised to contact the Station Manager at Clapham Junction when you arrive and state the purpose of your visit - it is usually up to them whether or not you be allowed to take photos. If it's someone affable on duty the chances are that any enthusiasts will have been allowed to stay too. If not, come back later.

You may be requested to contact South West Trains (http://www.southwesttrains.co.uk/SWTrain... offices to get official authorisation for photography.

Or just take a chance and get up on the platforms and start snapping away! Not sure how many of the targets will perhaps take exception to being photographed, of course, but good luck.