Join my co-host Amy Ames Photography and me at the easternmost point of the U.S. for an unforgettable five-day Puffins and Coastal Light photography experience.

This workshop offers the rare opportunity to photograph Atlantic puffins on Machias Seal Island, one of the few places in the country where you blinds right in the middle of the breeding colony. We’ve scheduled three separate boat trips to the island, offering multiple opportunities with these charismatic seabirds in flight, carrying fish in their beaks, and interacting up close.

But the puffins aren’t the only star of this workshop.

We also explore Maine’s Bold Coast—a rugged, wild, and still largely undiscovered stretch of shoreline where spruce-covered crags plunge straight into the sea. It’s one of my favorite places to photograph in the entire state. If you’re drawn to dramatic cliffs, star-filled skies, and fishing villages you’ll fall in love with the picturesque Bold Coast.

Each day we’ll have opportunities to chase brilliant sunrises, explore misty harbors, and soak in stunning coastal sunsets.  And, weather permitting, we’ll even stay up late and capture the Milky Way rising behind one of Maine’s iconic lighthouses.

Dates July 13-17th 2026. (Dates are not 100% secure until December)

$3750 / $1500 Deposit with remainder due 5-1-26

Host: Amy Ames Photography and L’aura Lee Bradford Photography

(Authorized permittees of the National Park Service)

What’s Included

• Three boat trips on the beloved Barbara Frost to Machias Seal Island to photograph puffins (weather dependent)

• Four Nights at The Inn on the Wharf in Lubec, Maine (single rooms included)

• Daily sunrise and sunset sessions at scenic coastal locations

• Night photography guidance, including Milky Way opportunities (weather permitting)

• Hands-on instruction in the field and supportive group image reviews

• Small group size to ensure personalized attention, mentoring, and an opportunity to create lasting friendships

What’s Not Included

• Airfare and transportation to/from Lubec, Maine

• Lodging before or after the workshop dates

• Dinners - though we’ll enjoy group dinners in town each evening to review the day’s images, share stories, and answer questions in a casual, welcoming atmosphere

• Insurance - encouraged to protect against unforeseen situations including cancelations and gear damage

Itinerary

Please note: While we aim to photograph sunrises, sunsets, and even the Milky Way, our schedule will remain flexible. Conditions, boat timing, and group energy will guide our daily flow - rest assured, we’ll make the most of every opportunity the coast gives us!

Day 1: Welcome to Lubec
Arrive and check in at The Inn on the Wharf. We’ll meet at 3:00 PM to get acquainted and review the plan for the days ahead. Then we’ll enjoy dinner together and, weather permitting, head out for a relaxed sunset shoot to kick things off.

Day 2: Puffins + Milky Way Possibility
Our first boat trip to Machias Seal Island! Depending on conditions and group interest, the day may also include image review to learn from mistakes and prepare for the next day, sunset shooting, or even night photography if skies are clear and the Milky Way is visible over the rugged Bold Coast.

Day 3: Puffins & Golden Light
We’ll board for our second puffin adventure today! Exact timing will be confirmed the night before. If conditions align, we’ll begin with sunrise photography and spend the rest of the day exploring the area, reviewing images, or relaxing before a possible sunset session.

Day 4: Final Puffin Adventure & Coastal Wrap-Up
Our third and final Machias Seal Island trip gives us one more chance to capture puffins in action. We'll use the rest of the day for additional shooting or image review, closing out the workshop with a farewell sunset if weather and timing allow.

Day 5: Optional Sunrise & Departure
We’ll offer an optional sunrise session for anyone who wants one last coastal moment, followed by goodbyes and check-out.

This workshop is rated moderate in terms of physical activity. Participants should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain, climbing in and out of boats, and crawling or kneeling on rocky coastal areas to get low-angle shots. While hikes are short and paced for photography, a reasonable level of mobility and balance is important for your safety and comfort.

If you have any concerns about physical accessibility, feel free to reach out - we’re happy to discuss your current experience and how it compares.