The Art of the Locomotive

More about the book

For all the steam and diesel locomotives you can't see in person or wish to remember in their full glory, this book is a must-have. Covering the steam age to the modern diesel era, locomotives are engineering marvels, embodying power and human ingenuity. Photographer Ken Boyd offers a unique perspective, meticulously evaluating every detail of his subjects—from bolts to windows—before digitally enhancing them for stunning clarity. The result is a collection of images showcasing locomotives with intricate details often missed in traditional photography. Featuring 150 large-format plates, the book presents locomotives from the small steam engines of the mid-19th century to the massive steam and diesel giants that followed. Each plate includes a detailed caption covering the locomotive's history and technology. The collection spans railroads across the U.S. and Canada, from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico and from the East Coast to the West Coast. Additionally, Boyd includes an appendix that reveals his photographic process, providing insight into the artistry behind his remarkable imagery. Boyd's sharp, rich images are truly breathtaking and must be seen to be believed.