Penn State Altoona Student Revs Up Popular Railfanning YouTube Channel
PALMER, MA – A Penn State Altoona student is gaining traction online by injecting humor adn dynamic editing into the traditionally static world of train videos. Kian Woods, creator of the YouTube channel “AS Railfan,” launched in 2022, is attracting a growing audience with a unique approach to railfanning content.
Woods identified a gap in the market for train videos that prioritized entertainment alongside the subject matter. “A problem I’ve always had with the average train video is that people just upload raw, unedited material, literally just a train going past. I get super bored watching that kind of video and find myself skipping through them,” Woods explained. “that’s why I make my videos engaging and fun to watch.”
His channel, which currently boasts over 2,600 subscribers, features compilations, Q&A sessions, playful “shenanigans,” and detailed train identification – even including appearances from his dog, Finn. Woods believes his success stems from a intentional effort to create content that stands out. “I knew there was an open market for train videos that are much more enjoyable to watch through humor and editing. Not many channels were making that kind of content.”
to achieve this, Woods utilizes a variety of editing techniques, including music, graphics, voice-over narration, sound effects, and animation. “That’s why my channel has outgrown older train channels so much faster. It’s what people want to watch,” he said. The positive response from viewers fuels his continued efforts. “I’ve gotten many comments and messages saying that people really enjoy the content and want more like it. that kind of feedback is what motivates me to keep making videos and keep improving their quality.”
[Image of New England Central power sets awaiting duty in the NECR yard south of Palmer,MA.Credit: Kian Woods]
