Puffins of Maine Workshop - 2025

(DRY RUN)

SOLD OUT

Price: $1995 $650

July 17–19, 2025
Optional Loon Extension: July 20–21

Join me for a special small-group photo workshop on Maine’s remote Bold Coast, designed around two morning excursions to Machias Seal Island, home to one of the most accessible - and photogenic - Atlantic puffin colonies in the U.S. This dry run version of the workshop is a chance to explore, learn, and enjoy time in the field with other nature photographers while I finalize logistics for a future full-length offering.

Each morning, we’ll travel by boat to the island for time in photography blinds where puffins, razorbills, murres, and Arctic terns gather in abundance during breeding season. In the afternoons, we’ll explore local hotspots for shorebirds, and weather permitting, we’ll make the most of sunset light—and maybe even sneak in a Milky Way session at West Quoddy Head Light if skies cooperate.

For those seeking an extra day on the water, an optional extension will take us inland to photograph Common Loons by kayak on a quiet Maine pond, where we’ll drift respectfully and observe their graceful movements up close.

Recommended Photography Equipment

You’re welcome to bring any setup you’re comfortable with, and I’m happy to support you whether you’re working with a DSLR, mirrorless system, or a compact camera. To make the most of our time with seabirds and shorebirds, I recommend:

  • Telephoto Lens – A lens in the 400–600mm range is ideal for puffins and loons.

  • Second Lens – A wider lens (24–70mm or 24–105mm) for landscapes or wide environmental shots.

  • Third Lens – A fast wide angle like a 15-35mm f/2.8 or 24mm f/1.8 for Milky Way

  • Tripod or Monopod – Useful for evening landscapes and night photography.

  • Camera Rain Cover – For use on the boat or if light rain rolls in.

  • Extra Batteries & Memory Cards – The blinds are enclosed, but the puffins don’t wait while you swap gear!

  • Headlamp with Red Light – If you plan to join the Milky Way shoot.

What to Wear & Bring

Weather on the Bold Coast can change quickly. As a Registered Maine Guide, I’ll make sure we’re prepared to adapt to the conditions—but a little gear planning goes a long way to staying safe and comfortable:

  • Layers – Coastal Maine mornings are cool, even in July. Bring a warm layer and wind-resistant outer shell.

  • Rain Jacket – For boat rides and island time.

  • Waterproof boots or hiking shoes – You’ll be walking on uneven ground, possibly damp with sea spray.

  • Hat & gloves (lightweight) – Optional, but handy for early mornings.

  • Bug spray – Especially for inland locations and sunset shoots.

  • Sun protection – Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must on open water.

  • Water bottle & snacks – Days can be long; pack what you need to stay energized.

  • Dry bag (optional) – For keeping gear safe on the boat or near water.

This dry run workshop is a great opportunity to enjoy Maine’s stunning coastlines, seabird colonies, and a relaxed, collaborative photography experience. You’ll get expert guidance, meaningful time in the field, and help shaping your images from capture to final edit. Most of all, we’ll have a lot of fun doing what we love: being outside, chasing light, and photographing wild things.

If you're unsure about what to bring, feel free to reach out ahead of time - I'm happy to offer guidance.