Reviews

Fairburn Tank in The Lakes" was the title for Timeline's November outing with 42073 at the Lakeside and Haverthwaite line, but little did the unwary participants anticipate how close to actually being under water this event threatened to be as the River Leven surged past the Linsty Green location providing an interesting diversion from the rather sombre first day's shoot in the perpetual gloom of The Lakes at their most miserable. Undeterred, Neil and his willing co conspirators, the two Peters, pressed on and, with some relief from the rainfall later in the day, and despite awesome ASA readings, a reasonable selection of images was procured along the branch. A satisfyingly filling early dinner in the L and H restaurant and night shoot starring the motionless Linda completed the proceedings for Day One, with an optimistic weather forecast for the morrow in the minds of those with two days suffering booked. To everyone's relief Thursday dawned with hills visible and a prospect of brightness and so it came to pass that the sun did wilfully illuminate Sowerby Bridge's finest and her diminutive train at most of the key locations along the line. Opinion seemed to favour the rock face just east of Haverthwaite Tunnel as the master shot, but the woods approaching Newby Bridge must have been a close second with their autumn tints sparkling in the sunshine. The morning ended with some reflective views over the reed beds approaching Lakeside, after which a return to lunch at Haverthwaite was made as the sun gave way to clouds portending the arrival of the storm-named-Abigail. Rain and increased gloominess over lunch saw an exodus of participants before a superbly smokey afternoon departure to Lakeside, but once again, Neil's personal hotline to God had already secured the services of the golden orb and I think there was a general feeling that Timeline had made the best of what originally seemed most unpromising circumstances. Notwithstanding day one's adversities I enjoyed this charter and thank Neil, Linda, the Two Peters and all the staff of the L and HR who made it possible.

Pete S

Had a greatly enjoyable day at North Weald last week, the mid-day American Pin-up event Wed 31 Aug, thanks to good weather. A bit bright at times, but manageable (well for those with more skilled than me!), good company and organisation (thanks Neil), not forgetting the very helpful and cooperative models (Annette, Pearl, Sugar and Isabella), nor the Hangar 11 guys and the plane, jeep and motorbike owner who let us use the planes as backdrops...

It was my first such model shoot and not really my scene (he claims!) but was good fun. Thanks to all involved.

David R

As a regular visitor to East Kirkby and Just Jane, I enjoy the oppressive to take part in TLE. Neil & Alan are brilliant in the way that they are there for all your needs and are very approachable particularly if you need a little technical help. I’ve attended photography events with other operators where re-enactors forget they they are chiefly there for us the customers, but the way that Neil & Alan get the guys and girls to to do repeat walks, or when they hold a certain pose for a few seconds. The banter is also good, and I particularly like the fact that we are all encouraged to be friendly and aware of each and to be polite. I cannot recommend TLE highly enough and look forward to a shoot containing the Mosquito in 2020. Rob Hayton

South Devon Railway - 1369 on a short freight 03-11-16. This was my seventh TimeLine event in the last couple of years, and over that time, I've come to appreciate that every time, I can book TLE shoots with confidence. Neil and his Team are always very well organised and professional. Importantly, proper regard is given to health & safety issues at all times, and nothing is left to chance. Locations are well researched having regard to the time of day and year, position of sun (sun?!!), etc. About the only thing Neil can't properly organize is the weather, which on the Devon shoot was disappointingly dull, immediately following a few glorious days. But show me a charter organizer who CAN sort the weather! Anyhow, taking great shots in dull weather is simply more of a challenge, and I for one am very pleased with the outcome. So I would recommend TLE shoots to anyone without hesitation, and roll on my next one.

Ted B

I've just attended the All American Pin-up shoot at North Weald, & can't praise it highly enough! It's my first time behind the camera at one of these events, having been involved as a re-enactor in the past. Pre shoot communications & the organisation was faultless, & I found everyone really friendly & helpful. That includes Neil & the TLE staff, all at Hangar 11, & the models.  I should also include the other photographers as well! What a friendly bunch, & all eager to share help & advice, & most considerate about keeping out of shot! I loved the event, shot hundreds of images, (several of which came out ok). I'll certainly consider another event in the future, and anyone who has thought about doing one, just do it!

Pete M

I recently attended my first TimeLine Event at Didcot, having just joined as a TLE member  - Winter in the shed - what a great experience! Merging together my passion for social history and photography I was really looking forward to the event - and I wasn't disappointed! The venue was brilliant - old, authentic and atmospheric - even more so due to the smoke machines and steam from the trains.  Together, with professional, flexible, approachable and adaptable re-enactors, the perfect backdrop and atmosphere for railway shots was created. The cameo's set up by the TLE team were thoughtful and considered and the team ensured each photographer got the shot they were after.  Fellow photographers were polite, enthusiastic and willing to share their tips and techniques.  I really enjoyed the event and have already booked up for several more in the near future!

Belinda E