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Hello Chris and welcome to the forum.
In reply to your question as to what this hobby is all about; that depends on who you talk to as there are so many reasons why anyone takes on a hobby. My views are first and formost enjoyment. Its starts like collecting things, only in this case its to see and record as many different rolling stock as possible. This can include Locomotives,coaches, wagons etc. As the hobby progresses so does the knowledge of the items and all the peripheral equipment as books, records, photographs etc.
There is no such thing as a good or bad enthusiast because there is not set format. It is whatever makes you happy and that can mean so many different things to so many different people.
There is the added aspect of travel and some go to great lengths (all over the world) in persuit of the hobby.
To many nostalga plays a very important role and takes one back to the days when our railways were a massive part of everyday life.
I could go on but as you will find out there is nothing secret about our hobby, we are for the most part a happy bunch who will do anything to be with and part of anyone and anything connected.
By the way not everyone associated with this hobby is a "spotter" there are many who enjoy just being on and connected to a railway, and then there are the photographers who specalise in capturing locomotive either steam diesel electric or all!
Have fun with your hobby as a researcher as we do.
All the best
Phil
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