No matter how visually appealing they seem, railway tracks are not a safe or legal location for photoshoots.

Every shot taken on the tracks puts you, your clients, and train crews at serious risk.

Why photographers should never take photos on the tracks

It’s illegal

Railway tracks and the land around them (the rail corridor) are private, operational infrastructure. The rail corridor includes tracks, rail bridges, railway yards and tunnels.

Entering the rail corridor without permission is trespassing under the Railways Act 2005, and fines can reach up to $10,000.

Even if the tracks looks unused or quiet, it is still illegal to enter.

Track photos encourage copycat behaviour

Images posted online can influence others — especially young people and aspiring photographers.

Even if your own shoot was controlled or careful, others may try to recreate it in unsafe conditions.

Trains are faster and quieter than you think

• Modern trains approach quickly and almost silently.
• They cannot stop in time — even if a driver sees you.

The emotional toll

Locomotive engineers (train drivers) who experience collisions and near misses often suffer long-term trauma.

A single unsafe photoshoot can have life‑altering consequences — not only for those on the tracks, but for the people operating the train.