Portland Head Light, Maine
In 1776, eight soldiers stood guard to protect residents against attack. In 2020, several Park Rangers stood guard to protect the Light from me.
August 25, 2020 – Portland HeadLight, Cape Elizabeth, Maine
A BEACON OF LIGHT, a protector of life. This historic lighthouse has towered over the land known today as Cape Elizabeth for 400 years. Residents slept soundly in 1776 under the watchful eyes of eight soldiers standing alert at the entrance of Portland Harbor. Their mission? To protect the residents from British attack.
In 2020, visiting Portland Head Light presents a different challenge. Every photographer, including me, wants a picturesque sunset photo of the Light to hang on their wall. Unfortunately, Portland Head Light is located in lovely Fort Williams Park where park rangers patrol the park right before sunset, closing time.
Well, who wants to leave before sunset? If I go out far enough on the rocks I cannot hear their requests to leave. And, by the time I am forced to go, I might be lucky enough to leave with the prize of the day.
“Well, who wants to leave before sunset?“
Why did I choose Portland Head Light?
As a photographer, I believe that the most picturesque lighthouse in Maine is the Portland Head Light. I found it because I have an amazing friend who grew up in Maine. We met in college and we instantly bonded. Living down the road from me during our college years made the friendship even better. Every summer, my mom and I trekked to Maine, stayed overnight with her and then traveled on to explore the state’s coastline of beaconing lights. The Portland Head Light remains the most challenging beacon of Maine to me, the photographer.
AM – Visual Storyteller / Moments Told
