Bass Harbor Head Light at sunset with a colorful sky in the background

Maine Classic

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GPS: 44°13’21″ N 68°20’13″ W

This iconic lighthouse is a frequent attraction for visitors to nearby Acadia National Park, Maine. Located on the southwestern tip of Mount Desert Island, Bass Harbor Head Light has been standing on the quieter site of the island ever since 1858.

The white brick structure with its colorful red fresnel lens is a heavily photographed icon for good reason. It sits on a granite cliff some 56’ above high water, amidst a rugged coastal setting that is utterly stereotypical of Maine.

I prefer to come here off-season to avoid the crowds. If you come for sunset in the first two weeks of October, you may find yourself standing elbow to elbow with tourists and photography groups eager to capture a classic image of the place.

The lighthouse is photogenic at both sunrise and sunset, although I prefer it at sunset with a colorful sky in the background, as in the featured image.

Bass Harbor Head Light lies at the end of Lighthouse Road, off Route 102A near the fishing village of Bass Harbor, Maine. Parking is free but the lighthouse itself is closed to the public, as it remains an active station operated by the Coast Guard.

From the parking area, you’ll find paths on the right and left of the lighthouse. However, the most photogenic angle is from the left path that leads down a long staircase to the base of the cliff. There are no guardrails once you reach rocks, so tread carefully.

Coastline in Narragansett, Rhode Island

Hazard Rocks

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GPS: 41°24’53” N 71°27’10” W

The western shore of Narragansett Bay (Rhode Island) was purchased from the Narragansett Indians in the 17th century to be used for shipbuilding. But by the 20th century, Narragansett had turned into an elegant summer resort for wealthy families.

In spite of its transformation, one thing that hasn’t changed in all those years is the beauty of the rugged Narragansett coast. There are many photogenic places along the Bay, but one that stands out in my mind is the area at the end of Hazard Avenue.

Commonly referred to as Hazard Rocks, it would be entirely appropriate to heed this title as a danger warning, although it actually refers to a prominent family that once lived here. Regardless, rogue waves and slippery rocks are very dangerous partners along this treacherous coastline, having claimed many lives over the years.

To reach Hazard Rocks, drive south on Ocean Road from Narragansett and turn east onto Hazard Avenue. You’ll find several parking spaces at the end of the street. From there, walk carefully on the short and well-worn footpath down to the rocks.

The best time of day to photograph Hazard Rocks is at dawn and sunrise. I prefer to come here in March, April, August, or September — at that time of year, the sun rises over the most photogenic rocks and can be included in the composition. Lastly, I avoid high tide for safety reasons and to reduce the risk of damaging camera gear.

Waterfall in White Mountains of New Hampshire

Aqua Trio

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GPS: 44°04’17″ N 71°10’15″ W

As one of the attractions in the popular White Mountains of New Hampshire, Diana’s Baths in Bartlett is a frequent destination for summer tourists. In July and August, you may find entire families wading in the shallow pools that surround the falls.

History tells us that a series of ledges originating from the top of Big Attitash Mountain created these photogenic cascades and small waterfalls along Lucy Brook, including the trio featured in the accompanying image that empties into a pool of granite.

The best time to photograph here is in late May or early June when the foliage is dressed in a fresh coat of green and the spring runoff peaks the water level. Come back on an overcast day in early October to include a background of colorful leaves.

The parking lot to Diana’s Baths is located at 3405 West Side Road in Bartlett. Since this is part of the White Mountain National Forest, there’s a $3.00 fee to enter. An easy half-mile gravel trail will lead you to the brook and falls.

Spring at Roaring Brook

Hear Me Roar

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GPS: 43°02’34” N 73°06’09” W

Roaring Brook can be counted among the most photogenic streams in New England. It runs along Kelly Stand Road between Arlington and West Wardsboro, Vermont, surrounded by the natural beauty of Green Mountain National Forest.

Kelly Stand Road follows the brook for six miles, so there are untold opportunities for photography in these parts. The road itself is a well-groomed dirt road with a generous parking area two miles from the west entrance on the Arlington side.

The best months to photograph Roaring Brook are May and October, preferably under overcast skies. Wildflowers can be found near the boulder-filled brook in spring, while yellow and crimson trees adorn its banks during peak foliage in early October.

You may want to bring tall boots or waders if you come here, as the best compositions often involve standing in the brook. And do walk gingerly to avoid the slippery rocks.

The best way to reach Roaring Brook is from South Road off Route 7 in East Arlington. Take South Road to the end and then turn right on Kansas Road. Kelly Stand Road is a right turn over the bridge. Drive two miles to the parking area, and start walking.