Big Boy 4014 Charging Through

the Sierra Nevada Mountains

Now Available • Big Boy No. 4014

Prints, Wall Art & Greeting Cards

Support Local Art from Photographer Kial James, Northern California Scenics

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Watch the Big Boy Videos Below

1. Bringing the Big Boy Back to Life
2. Big Boy Charging through the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range

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Big Boy No. 4014 Videos

The Story Behind the Capture

I'm always on the lookout for new adventures when I'm not chasing sunsets, scenic landscapes, or shooting commercial jobs. So, when I heard about the upcoming arrival of Big Boy 4014 through Union Pacific's Heritage Tour, I knew I had to capture it. Initially, I planned to photograph Big Boy 4014 as it rolled into Colfax Junction in Northern California. But, as fate, luck, and a sprinkle of grace would have it, I opted for Plan B, seeking a more spectacular setting worthy of this historic train.

Despite a few hiccups along its route—hitting a tree, needing repairs, and steaming through Colfax without a whistle-stop—everything worked out in the end. Arriving four hours early to set up for the shot paid off. As I told my family: four hours of waiting, three hours of driving, and two minutes of pure awesomeness.

PS: The shot of the train coming out of the tunnel is a composite. I shot the tracks and tunnel first, then used a separate shot to compose the train into the tunnel.

I hope you enjoy this series of images as much as I loved taking and editing them.