Steam Sundowner Photographic event at Wonder Steam Trains
Schedule
Sat Jun 20 2026 at 04:00 pm to 09:15 pm
UTC+02:00Location
Wonder Steam Trains Pty Ltd | Pretoria, GT
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Steam Sundowner – 20 June 2026Wonder Steam Trains | 16h00 – 21h00
R800 per person
Limited to 20 photographers
Join us for an unforgettable winter’s evening of steam, atmosphere and photography as we recreate and relive the golden age of steam in South Africa.
This will be our fourth Steam Sundowner photographic event - and without doubt our most ambitious yet.
For this special edition, we plan to have two steam locomotives in steam (subject to availability), together with a South African Railways reenactor in original railway uniform, staging scenes throughout the evening and helping bring the atmosphere of the steam era to life.
Designed purely for photographers, this is a rare opportunity to capture authentic steam-era scenes in a controlled and immersive setting.
How the event works:
Session 1 – Runpasts
We begin out on the old shunting neck, where the locomotive(s) will perform a series of runpasts - charging toward photographers with plenty of smoke, steam and sound. A dramatic way to start the evening and an ideal chance to capture action images.
Session 2 – Sunset Steam
As the afternoon light softens, we move to the area just outside the shed. With the winter sunset and crisp air, steam becomes truly magical. Here the crew will go about servicing the locomotives while photographers capture those timeless scenes of man and machine. Our SAR reenactor will also be positioned throughout the area for a variety of authentic period scenes.
Refreshment Break
A short break follows, with drinks and food available for purchase.
Session 3 – Night Photography & Long Exposure
Once darkness falls, we head back into the shed for a long exposure and night photography session. Steam illuminated against the winter night creates a spectacular atmosphere and brings the evening to a memorable close.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why only 20 people?
We intentionally keep these events small and exclusive. With too many people, photography becomes difficult and space becomes limited. By limiting numbers, every photographer has more freedom to work, compose and enjoy the experience.
Why R800?
We understand this is a premium event. However, operating large steam locomotives - even for only a few hours - is costly. Your booking contributes directly toward coal, water, and the ongoing maintenance of these remarkable machines. If you would like to discuss a payment arrangement with us, please feel free to contact us.
Is it safe?
Yes. The event is carefully managed and hosted in cooperation with the Wonder Steam team. A safety briefing will be provided before the event begins, and all attendees are required to follow instructions throughout the evening.
Who is this for?
Everyone is welcome - whether you are an amateur, hobbyist or professional photographer. This is a unique photographic opportunity created specifically for photography, with carefully staged scenes and authentic steam atmosphere.
Bookings
To secure your place, please email:
[email protected]
If you have sent an email and haven’t heard back, please feel free to send us a direct message.
We look forward to hosting you for a nostalgic evening of steam and photography at Wonder Steam Trains on 20 June 2026.
#stimelaevents #PhotographicWorkshop #pretoria
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Where is it happening?
Wonder Steam Trains Pty Ltd, Miechaelson Street 152,Pretoria, South AfricaEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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