As always, thank you all for all the compliments. Also, don't hold back with constructive criticism either-this is a constant learning process and I'm up for almost any feedback at all (anything other than: "that sucks" with no explanation) I tried to get a little more up close with the pictures Accumulated fall leaves on all the window ledges. Not sure if I'm in love with this or not yet. There is still a long way to go before the tipple gets 'planted'. Due to how the plaster cloth turned out, as you can see there is a large gap between the legs and the ground. This will be hidden by adding lots and lots of bushes. This for some reason is as good as I can get the picture. No idea why 'cus it's crappy as hell. Method: Cover original scenery in dead leaves by JTT, Forest floor by Timerline Scenery, Underbrush by Woodland Scenics, and then sprinkle fallen leaves everywhere (as per everything I do on this layout). I am not happy with the results, but not sure how to improve on what I've got. May end up plastering over the whole scene and turn it into a camping ground, but I'll worry about that later. What I would have given for a static grass applicator. Nevermind.
Video Update #7 with Railfanning. Better quality than usual [video=youtube;6tisuo-ExaA]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tisuo-ExaA[/video]
Chris, Sad to hear the the helix and therefore half the layout seem to have disappeared. However, the bridge and track arrangements will make for some great photography. One thing of note, your trees, though vibrant, are a bit too showy to be believable IMO. I know that everyone remembers that one day in their lives when all the trees are in full color, or so it seems... However, in reality, most trees gradually change color, starting at the bottom and working to the top if conditions are right (i.e. there is sufficient water and nutrients in the soil to continue photosynthesis in the top sun-leaves). If you take a look at reference photos you'll see what I mean. I can't recall where I read or who the article was by, but there are modelling articles in existence on the subject. Basically a light misting of green from immediately above will tone down the top of your trees. You may also consider putting some smaller understory/shubbery trees near the tree line of your forests to better represent the edge effect so prevalent here in Appalachia. Now that my summer research is winding down, I hope to start following your progress again this winter and start some of my own.
