Maine Coast Photography Workshop: Lighthouses & Coastal Landscapes

Maine Coast Photography Workshop: Panoramic sunset view of Monhegan Lighthouse with vibrant sky. Join our workshop to photograph these classic Maine coastal landscapes.
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Space Available
$1690 USD
Instructor: Andy Cook

ABOUT THE MAINE COAST PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

There's something special about the Maine Coast—a blend of rugged shoreline, fishing villages, sea-sculpted rock, and that unmistakable Atlantic light. Join us as we explore both iconic and lesser-known corners of this coastline, photographing lighthouses, harbors, coves, and scenes that feel as timeless as New England itself.

Just like our other workshops, this experience is about more than taking pictures. It's about slipping into that wonderful headspace where landscape photography makes the rest of the world fall away. It's getting lost in the rhythm of waves and the glow of twilight, and then—when everything aligns—feeling that spark of excitement as if you've just uncovered something rare and beautiful nestled in the tide.

Whether you love to move quickly and explore every angle or prefer to settle into a scene and let it unfold slowly, this workshop welcomes both approaches. We keep the environment fun, relaxed, and supportive so everyone—from energetic younger photographers to seasoned adventurers—can find their stride.

And as always, Andy is there to guide you, answer questions, help refine your vision, and offer hands-on support. He's not there to take his own photos; this experience is entirely focused on helping you grow your craft while having a genuinely good time. Many of our participants return year after year, and we do everything we can to make sure the workshop is both rewarding and enjoyable.

HIGHLIGHTS

ICONIC & HIDDEN LOCATIONS

We'll photograph classic Maine icons as well as quiet, lesser-known spots that reveal the coast's more intimate side.

AUTHENTIC MAINE EXPERIENCE

We stay in charming, historic coastal inns and enjoy the local flavors of small seaside villages.

LIGHTHOUSES & COASTAL SCENES

Our primary subjects will be two lighthouses, working harbors, rocky coastlines, weathered buildings, and atmospheric coastal light.

Lobster buoys on the Maine coast.
The jumble of lobster buoys and ropes creates a colorful and textured scene on the Maine coast. This image captures the rustic charm of these working elements, showcasing the unique character of the region's harbors and fishing communities. It's a scene that speaks to the heart of Maine's coastal culture.
Weathered door of a lobster shack on the Maine coast.
The weathered door of a lobster shack, adorned with colorful buoys and a rusty chair, captures the rustic charm of the Maine coast. This image evokes the working waterfronts and maritime heritage of the region, inviting viewers to explore the authentic character of Maine's coastal communities.

WORKSHOP ITINERARY & SCHEDULE

SUNDAY, MAY 23, 2027
We meet at 4:30 PM at the Bailey Island Motel for introductions and a brief discussion. At 5:30 PM, we head out to preview our morning locations and photograph sunset. (Please have dinner before the meeting.)

LODGING LOCATION: Bailey Island Motel, 2041 Harpswell Islands Road, Bailey Island, ME 04003. 207-833-2886
Check-in: May 23, 2027
Check-out: May 24, 2027

We will have already paid for these rooms, this night's lodging cost will be collected in advance of the workshop, no need to contact hotel.

MONDAY, MAY 24, 2027
Relocate to:
Cod Cove Inn, 22 Cross Road, Edgecomb, ME 04556. 207-882-9586
Check-in: May 24, 2027
Check-out: May 25, 2027

TUESDAY, MAY 25, 2027
Relocate to:
TBD, Port Clyde, ME 04855
Check-in: May 25, 2027
Check-out: May 26, 2027

WEDNESDAY, MAY 26, 2027
Relocate by ferry to Monhegan Island:
Monhegan House, Monhegan Island, ME 207-594-7983
Check-in: May 26, 2027
Check-out: May 28, 2027
We will have a block of rooms reserved here. Participants may contact the hotel starting January, 2027 to put a room in their name, please tell them you are with our group.

The workshop ends after morning photography on Friday, May 28, 2027.

FERRY RETURN: Our ferry tickets are for a set departure time. We return midday on Friday, May 28. Because timing can vary, we recommend avoiding flights scheduled for Friday.

Optional: If you arrive early or stay after the workshop, consider photographing Portland Head Light or Nubble Light, both excellent sunrise and sunset locations.

Pemaquid Lighthouse on the Maine coast.
The Maine coast in May is a photographer's dream, with its picturesque lighthouses, dramatic skies, and rugged coastline. This image showcases Pemaquid Lighthouse at dawn, capturing the beauty of the coast in the soft morning light. Join our May workshop and experience the magic of the Maine coast in spring.

WHAT TO EXPECT

MORNING: We arrive before civil twilight, letting ourselves settle into the moment as the first light of day reveals the coast. We stay through sunrise, then go to breakfast.

MIDDAY: Most days involve relocating to our next lodging. Post-processing assistance is limited, but Andy is always happy to answer questions along the way.

EVENING: We eat dinner together at a local restaurant, then photograph sunset and twilight as the coast transforms in the soft, fading light.

Sunrise on the Maine coast.
Our Maine Coast photography workshop in May will take you to stunning locations like this, where you can capture the magic of coastal sunrises. Learn how to photograph the interplay of light, water, and landscape, and capture the beauty of the Maine coast in spring. Andy Cook will guide you in mastering the techniques needed to create breathtaking images.

Join us to discover the true essence of the Maine Coast, from its classic scenes to its secret spots. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and elevate your coastal photography in an authentic New England setting.

→ Click here to REGISTER for the Maine Coast Workshop

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The Barnacle on Monhegan Island, Maine.
Our Maine Coast photography workshop in May includes a visit to Monhegan Island, where you can capture the charm of places like The Barnacle. Learn how to photograph the island's unique architecture, its rugged coastline, and its tranquil atmosphere.

WORKSHOP DETAILS

EXPERIENCE: Intermediate to Advanced
Because participants often spread out, this workshop isn't ideal for beginners.

GROUP SIZE: Target number of participants is 8.

EFFORT: Moderate - Some locations are right off the parking lot, while others include rock scrambling or hikes with elevation—especially on Monhegan Island. Hiking boots are recommended.

CONDITIONS: Cold ocean water keeps the air chilly. Bring layers—think winter clothing—to stay warm and comfortable.

INCLUDED: Ferry ride to Monhegan Island.

Lighthouse keeper's house on the Maine coast.
The Maine coast in May offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm. This image showcases a lighthouse keeper's house at sunset, with its traditional white siding and red roof complementing the colorful sky. Join our May workshop and experience the beauty of the Maine coast in spring, capturing its iconic landmarks and picturesque scenery.

GETTING TO THE WORKSHOP

AIR TRAVEL: Most participants fly into Portland, ME or Manchester, NH. Boston is another option.

Portland to Bailey Island: 1 hour
Port Clyde to Portland: 2 hours

Manchester to Bailey Island: 3 hours
Port Clyde to Manchester: about 3.25 hours

DRIVING CONDITIONS: Mostly paved roads. A standard rental car is sufficient.

A GPS or smartphone makes relocating between hotels and restaurants easy.

Docks in Port Clyde, Maine.
Our Maine Coast Photography Workshop in May will take you to picturesque locations like Port Clyde, where you'll capture the essence of a working waterfront. Learn how to photograph the docks, lobster traps, and charming coastal towns, all while creating stunning images of the Maine coast and having fun in the process.

RECOMMENDED GEAR

CAMERA & LENSES: For the Maine Coast, a versatile lens range will help you make the most of the dynamic shoreline. Focal lengths spanning roughly 16mm to 400mm (after any crop-factor adjustment) is ideal. A polarizing filter can help manage glare and deepen colors along the water, and a 6-stop or stronger neutral density filter is useful for long-exposure work when the waves and tides invite more creative interpretations.

TRAVELING ON MONHEGAN ISLAND: Monhegan Island has almost no vehicles, which means we carry what we bring. To make the experience easier and more enjoyable, consider packing a smaller, easy-to-carry bag or duffel for the island portion of the workshop. You can leave larger or heavier luggage in your vehicle on the mainland and travel light for the island stay.

Weathered door of a lobster shack on the Maine coast.
The weathered door of a lobster shack, adorned with colorful buoys and a rusty chair, captures the rustic charm of the Maine coast. This image evokes the working waterfronts and maritime heritage of the region, inviting viewers to explore the authentic character of Maine's coastal communities.