We will be staying in Camden ME in late July. I have David Middleton's book "Photographers Guide to the Maine Coast" and have some good ideas of places to photograph. My wife & son would like to go on a Puffin tour. Are the tours from Port Clyde worthwhile? How close does the boat get to the puffins. What lens is recommended for shooting from the boat. I have a 300 f4 and can rent something longer like a 80-400mm or 200-400mm.
We plan on several day trip sailing tours and attending the Lobster Fest. We will also spend a night at Pemaquid Pt for both a sunset & sunrise. Anything else not to miss on this part of the Maine coast? Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Ken
HI, Cool K, from a new member.
I have shot several times along the Maine coast, as recently as last July.
My wife and I consider the place a pilgrimage now.
A few thoughts:
Re puffins: I understand that the tours are a bit long. The main fact is, that the seas still are a bit rough out toward the islands, even in July. The longer lenses are going to be a real issue to stabilize on the boat. Pemaquid Point is a wonderful place, but there is only one place to stay anywhere near, and the site is about as isolated as you can imagin. Not that that is bad, but you just need to be aware. The access is steep (I should know, I injured my MCL in my right knee there going down o the rocks. Also, the place is COVERED with people on the weekend, especially in the afternoon, and unless you plan to clone like crazy, better to try it early AM during the week.
Now, for suggestions:
1) If you don't visit Acadia, you are crazy. Pain and simple, a gorgeous place. Take the road north 20 miles, and visit the branch of Acadia on the Schoodic peninsula. Private, not as dearly "loved" and solitude is the name of the game. If you have time, take one of he "carriage trails" in a guided cart. They will stop where you want, you miss the traffic, since the Rockefeller carriage roads are out of sight of cars, and some views you see, you can't reach by car, or by hike, unless you know where you are going.
Camden is great, and beautiful. There is a nice state park about 1000 feet up hill, for great views.
I will look at a few shots, and get some more for you...
Regards,
Michael