Photography from Puffing Billy’s Magical Train of Lights

There’s something truly special about photographing steam trains…but photographing one covered in thousands of glowing lights? That’s next level magic.

Recently, I had the chance to capture photography from Puffing Billy’s Magical Train of Lights, and it felt like stepping straight into a Christmas movie set in the heart of Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges.

The historic Puffing Billy Railway transforms into a moving light show during this annual event, with every carriage glowing in vibrant colours as it winds through the forest at night. For photographers, it’s an absolute dream.

Check out the video below this article for the full series of photos and videos

Puffing Billy with Lights
Puffing Billy with Lights

What Makes the Magical Train of Lights So Photogenic?

The magic starts the moment the train pulls into the station. The warm steam rising into the cool night air. The reflections of colour bouncing off polished metal. The glow illuminating excited faces.

Here’s why it’s such an incredible event to photograph: 

  • Thousands of LED lights outlining every carriage
  • Dark forest backdrops that make the colours pop
  • Atmospheric steam creating cinematic effects 
It’s not just a train ride — it’s a moving light installation.

Puffing Billy Shines at Night
Puffing Billy Shines at Night

Photography Approach

Night photography always brings challenges, especially with a moving subject. Here’s how I approached capturing Puffing Billy’s Magical Train of Lights: 

  • Embrace the Darkness Instead of fighting the low light, I leaned into it. Shooting in manual mode allowed me to control shutter speed and ISO to balance the glow without blowing out highlights. 
  • Play with Motion A slightly slower shutter speed helped capture light trails and movement, adding energy to the images. 
  • Capture the Details Close-ups of the illuminated wheels, steam drifting through coloured lights, and candid moments made the story richer than just wide shots. 
  • Use the Environment The forest surroundings around Belgrave provide the perfect natural frame. Dark trees + bright train = dramatic contrast.

Video

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