Richard Virgil Dean Steinheimer (1929–2011) was a renowned American railroad photographer, celebrated for his evocative black-and-white images that captured the essence of American railroads. Often referred to as the “Ansel Adams of Railroad Photography,” he had a unique ability to portray the grandeur and romance of railroading, often highlighting the interplay between trains and the landscapes they traverse.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Steinheimer developed an early fascination with trains, which became the focal point of his photographic career. His work is characterized by an artistic approach and a dramatic use of light and shadow. Steinheimer’s photography spans several decades, documenting the transition from steam to diesel and electric locomotives, providing a visual history of American railroading in the 20th century.
Notable publications include Backwoods Railroads of the West (1963,) which showcases his early work capturing remote and obscure railroad lines. Another significant work is The Electric Way Across the Mountains (1990,) co-authored with his wife, Shirley Burman. This book focuses on the electrified railroads of the western United States, particularly the Sierra Nevada region.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Richard Steinheimer
What passes for good luck is really an infinite number of little good decisions.
—Richard Steinheimer
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