Kiev Ukraine Railfanning or Info

[kenneo]

Was there last August. They still have the Soviet mentality about photographing "sensitive" subjects, like trains. I took a couple of photos from a river steamer of the Dneiper River Bridge and a military train going over. Damn near didn't get out of the place. Should have known better considering what I did in an earlier life.

If you do your picture taking "under cover" such as with a tour group (whether you are a part of it or temporarly attaching yourself to it without permission) you can get away with almost anything -- or from within a crowd. DON'T stand out by yourself like we can here in the US. You WILL have the inestimable pleasure(?) of explaining yourself to the authorities. Hide in plain sight, within some sort of group that should be taking pictures.

Another suggestion is to go to the depot with folks that look like they could be traveling on a train, and you are there waiting for it. Pose these folks so that you take their pictures - and just by accident, the train is in it also. Invention and a sharp eye on what and who are around you will keep you out of hot water.

Not knowing how to speak Russian or Ukranian is of inestimable value. Even if you do.

Kiev is a pretty place. Still has an active KGB office (not KGB anymore, called something else) right smack on Revolution Square. Fantastic subway. I just don't know how to describe their "street cars" system. You just have to see it for yourself!

[halifaxcn]

Hello All,

Heading to Kiev Ukraine for 4-5 weeks for an adoption. I will have several days free and would like to catch some rail action. I know from my research that they do have an active passenger station.

Anyone with any info no matter what, please forward. I am hoping to a few photos.

Please feel free to contact me off list at [e-mail]

Thanks

Frank San Severino
CP-198 Amtrak NEC
Attleboro, MA