Photo charters offer a distinctive experience compared to traditional photo workshops. While workshops are typically hands-on and intimate, photo charters provide a unique group adventure.

Participants ride a train to carefully selected locations, disembark, and then photograph the train as it performs staged runbys against stunning natural backdrops.

The train is expertly positioned to take advantage of the best lighting conditions, often including golden hour lighting.

Each location offers multiple opportunities to photograph the train from different angles as it backs up and proceeds forward, simulating genuine railroad operations. This immersive experience allows photographers to create a diverse portfolio of images that showcase the romance and nostalgia of steam railroading, all while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts.

During the event, the property is also closed to the public to limit potential obstacles.

Norgrove Railway is located in Arroyo Grande, near Santa Maria and San Luis Obispo.

The nearest airport with regular service is Bakersfield. Los Angeles is about 3:30 hours drive, with Fresno about 2:40 away.

For the California events, a hotel around San Luis Obispo would make sense as it’s located between the two railroads.

If you prefer to pay via check, please mail a check or money order made payable to Dakota Group LLC to:

Dakota Group LLC
PO Box 35
Wildwood, Missouri 63040

Checks are not subject to the credit card processing fee. Checks will be cashed upon receipt by Dakota Group LLC.

Please include your name, email and phone number with your check and we will email confirmation upon receipt.

• This charter has a go/no go date of March 17, 2025.
• In the event the charter is canceled, a full refund (minus any credit card processing fees) will be refunded within 30 days of cancelation.
• All reservations are non-refundable after the go/no go date for the charter.
• If an engine is not operational for the event date, the event may continue with different motive power at the discretion of Dakota Group and the host railroad.

• We reserve the right to modify the event schedule, event dates or event offering at any time.
• Riders may be required by the host railroad and/or Dakota Group LLC to sign a liability waiver to participate in the event.
• We are not responsible for bad weather, delays or cancelations. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items, injuries, sickness or damages to personal equipment and loss of personal travel expenses.
• Due to the duration of this event, we do not recommend this experience for young children.
• Participants must be prepared to disembark and reboard train multiple times throughout the day. Participants should be prepared for rough terrain or uneven footing. Please wear sturdy shoes; hiking boots are recommended.