There's been hundreds if not thousands of photos posted from the 4014's "Great Race" trip which presents quite a challenge to a photographer seeking to capture something different. Last Saturday I drove down to Omaha, NE with two cameras: a Nikon D850 and a Chamonix 4x5. I had in mind three photos I wanted to come home with. One of these was an informal portrait of Ed Dickens. On Saturday afternoon I got my chance. Few in the crowd seemed to realize who he was and walked on by him as he fielded a few questions and answered calls on the radio. I approached, introduced myself, and asked if he might be willing to pose for me? The summer sun was high and bright--hardly favorable light conditions for a portrait! I suggested using the shade of a baggage car to soften the light. This also got us away from the crowds surrounding the engine and certain interruption. It took me a few minutes to set up the tripod & camera, focus under a dark cloth, take a meter reading, set the exposure on the lens, pull out a film holder, and take the shot. During this I explained what I was doing as I normally do to better involve my subjects. He was genuinely interested and asked about the historical aspects of photography which I answered as I worked. I took two photos in case I screwed one up and promised to send him a copy if they came out. He gave me his card and thanked me. He said he enjoyed working with someone so passionate and knowledgeable about what they were doing.
I've read some negativity here on this and other forums about Mr. Dickens but not having met the man I could have no opinion. Now that I've not only met him but spent about 20 minutes with him one on one I can say that I was impressed. Most in his position wouldn't have treated some foamer from South Dakota so kindly and generously given that much time on such a busy day. Having first hand experience I can report Ed Dickens is very much the gentleman you'd expect from a guy who lives in Wyoming. He even wears cowboy boots.
I thanked him for he & his team bringing the 4014 to life and for his time, and he in turn thanked me for mine. As I just wrote, a true gentleman.
Photo:
Chamonix 045n, Rodenstock 210mm f5.6, Ilford FP4+
Kent in SD
