Puffins! Capturing The Charm 2027 Information
An Immersive Puffin Photography Experience in Northern Maine
Puffins! Capturing The Charm 2027
Monday June 21st - Tuesday June 29th
Join Us For 9 Days!
$5275.00 per person, paid in full, non-refundable (save $527.75 see below)
3 payment plan $1846.33 over 6 months, every 2 months, includes 5% surcharge.
A one time set up fee of $263.75 will be charged with the first payment.
Excursion for 5 guests on the Bold Coast of Maine. This retreat has a primary focus on photographing puffins up to 5 times in their natural habitat, inspiring participants to unlock their creativity and express themselves through photography and adventure.
In the evening, we have the options of exploring seascapes and photographing Eagles!
Puffins! Capture The Charm 2027
Imagine embarking on an extraordinary week-long adventure in northern Maine, where your primary focus is photographing the enchanting puffins, alongside a wealth of other captivating wildlife and stunning seascapes. This exclusive tour is meticulously organized and promises an experience that is both immersive and exhilarating.
The experience includes the following
Seals, eagles, peregrine falcon, and the occasional porpoise or even a whale may also be seen, as will lighthouses, and the stunning rocky Maine coast.
• Check in, and Wine and Cheese meet and greet on Monday of each week 6 pm at the house.
• Lodging in a newly restored house, just a minute's walk from the harbor, and across the harbor from the boat. Shared and private rooms are available. The house is very well appointed and has extremely fast Wifi.
• Continental breakfast will be provided every day prior to leaving for the boat.
• Lobster roll or sandwich lunches will be provided on two separate days each week after the boat drops us off. We will go back to the house and freshen up, then head out for lunch at a famous local lunch spot.
• Opportunities to photograph sunset seascapes at uncrowded locations.
• Opportunities for excursions to other towns for shopping, sightseeing.
• Opportunity to dine at a harbor side restaurant each member is responsible for the cost of their meal.
• 1 hour of private mentoring ($250 value) for each attendee scheduled at your convenience. Does not expire. 2 hours if both weeks.
• Transportation to our location in Maine is not provided. If you decide to drive, be aware that our location is about a 5 hr drive from Boston. There is an airport about 90 minutes from our location and you may rent a car there. Once signed up I will create a private Facebook group for the 4 attendees to communicate with each other. You can arrange carpooling and have the ability for exploring on your own time.
Your journey begins with the comfort and excitement of staying in a gorgeous house located in a classic small fishing village in Down East Maine along the Bold Coast. Here, the charm and quirkiness of the local Maine culture surrounds you, and every walk to the harbor offers the thrill of spotting majestic eagles and osprey soaring above.
Each day, you'll head out on a private charter, arranged by Judy and led by a registered Maine guide. This expert not only navigates you to the best puffin-viewing spots but also brings you close to seals and eagles, adding layers of wonder to your photographic endeavors. Along the way, you'll gain insights into the traditional practice of lobstering, enriching your understanding of the local maritime culture.
Throughout the trip, the stunning scenery of northern Maine's Bold Coast provides a dramatic backdrop for your photographs. You will have access to areas that are off the beaten path, from rugged cliffs and rocky shores to serene forested areas, each location offering a unique opportunities to capture the beauty of the natural world. You will also have the opportunity to explore other small quiet fishing villages, many with historic homes where you will find unique, handmade items in local galleries and shops, reflecting the creativity and talent of the community.
This week-long tour is not just about photography; it’s an immersion into the rich wildlife, cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes of northern Maine. You are guaranteed an unparalleled experience, having access to one of the best places to photograph puffins in the United States. This adventure promises not only epic photographic moments but also a deep connection to the natural beauty and local traditions of this remarkable region.
Bald Eagle
Habor Seal
Juvenile Seal
Nestled in the untouched wilderness of northern Maine, this remote beach is a hidden gem where time seems to stand still. The gentle waves lap against the pristine shoreline, creating a soothing symphony that enchants all who visit. With its breathtaking sunsets and serene atmosphere, this magical beach offers a peaceful retreat from the world, leaving visitors in awe of its natural beauty.
Tenative Schedule
Schedule is subject to change based on weather, tides, and a few opportunities that might fit in the schedule.
Below Are The Rooms Available For This Trip. First person to book the trip, gets first choice and so on. Scroll down to the bottom for our cancellation policy.
Luxury Private Suite For One on the first floor, traveling with a friend or partner?
Please contact me for the pricing for the additional person.
The house is an old historical property that has been beautifully renovated. It has AC on all 3 floors and third floor was the coolest when we stayed there. The bathrooms are on the second floor for the second and third floor rooms.
2 Elegant Private Rooms Second Floor
Each room has a large queen bed. The bedroom is in the theme of crimson red or blue. There are two bathrooms on the second floor shared by the second and third floor, 6 guests total so 3 per bathroom. These rooms cannot be shared, everything is priced based on the exclusivity of our excursions.
Available For 2
Third Floor Room, Two Beds For 2 Guests
Lastly, we have the Seafarers Quarters This is a one guest room. Nestled on the charming third floor, this cozy room boasts two inviting double beds, but we can only have one guest do to the limitations on the boat. Coast guard only allows 6 passengers and a captain and first mate. Perfect for a restful night's sleep. This floor stays cool and comfortable, ensuring a pleasant atmosphere throughout your stay. While there are no bathrooms on this level, the unique layout adds to the floor's quaint appeal. Just down the hall, Judy and her assistant will be sharing another delightful room, adding a sense of camaraderie and warmth to your stay. Because of the coast guard regulations we can only have 6 on the boat, so this is a single room.
Fear not the third floor is as comfortable as the rest of the house! Trust me!
The House At A Glance
Tucked away and barely visible from the road, this hidden, secluded beach offers a serene escape from the world. To reach it, you embark on a short walk through a lush, verdant forest, with a narrow, winding path that only hints at the treasure ahead. As you emerge from the woods, the sight of the pristine shoreline unfolds before you—a tranquil, untouched stretch of sand bordered by gentle waves and framed by the natural beauty of the surrounding foliage. This hidden gem provides a perfect end of the day loaction for seascape photography.
Reviews From past Attendees
"My trip to a remote area of Maine with Judy was an unforgettable adventure. She organized a private charter for our group of six, featuring a registered Maine guide who expertly navigated us close to puffins, seals, and even an eagle! We also learned a little bit about lobstering, and life in a working fishing village, which made the experience all the more richer. Judy's guidance on camera settings and photo editing was invaluable for someone like me with little experience photographing birds in flight. Our accommodations in a stunning house within a quaint fishing village allowed us to witness eagles frequently by the harbor. Judy’s adventurous spirit and her knack for connecting with locals provided us with exclusive tips leading to hidden seascape photography spots that are either lesser-known or inaccessible to the general public. With only a few locations in the US to photograph puffins, Judy undoubtedly found the best spot and delivered an unparalleled experience."
Amy Masi, MD Photographer
"What an amazing experience Judy Reinford created! A chance of a lifetime to get to photograph Puffins without leaving the US. She arranged an amazing small lobster style boat experience that gets you right up near the Puffins on their private nesting and breeding island. We had fantastic chances to photograph in all sorts of conditions. We also got to see not only Puffins, but Terns, Guillemots, Razorbills, Eiders and I even got 3 Oyster catchers flying by! Even fat harbor seals and an Eagle posing majestically on a rocky outcropping. The surrounding towns offered more amazing experiences, great food ( lobster of course!) beautiful craggy landscapes, working harbors and boats. The house was perfectly sized for the group, offering plenty of space as a group and comfortable accomodations. As an experienced bird photographer myself, Judy still has so much to offer all levels! I came back from it complaining I had too MANY keeper photos… lol!! I highly recommend this trip and workshop to anyone!"
Betsi Convery Luce, MA Photographer
"Photographing puffins was on my bucket list as a wildlife photographer. Not only did this trip give me the opportunity to capture these delightful birds on water and in the air but there were plenty of eagles around too! The airbnb we stayed in was so spacious and clean with lots of rooms: a large kitchen and dining area, a living room with a tv and plenty of seating, and a porch with a gas fireplace. So cozy! We had some time to venture into nearby towns to sightsee, shop and eat lobster. Gotta have lobster while in Maine! The boat captain was very accommodating and friendly, taking us on a fun adventure with the puffins, and even giving us a glimpse into the world of lobster fishing. I came home with more than 9,000 images of puffins and eagles. I am delighted with the results!"
Kristy Steeves, OH Photographer
Map Of General Area
Puffin Inquiry
Terms and Conditions
Canceling And Refund Policy
The paid in full option for a 10% discount has no refund, however 50% of the fee can be used for private mentoring or online classes
Canceled 180 days or more before June 1st 2027, 50% of paid amount ( except the paid in full discounted amount ) for future workshop credit minus $250 admin fee.
Canceled 179 - 90 days - No refund
Canceled 90 - 1 day before - No refund
Cancelation Of Workshop
The workshop can be cancelled due to medical emergency, family emergency or unsafe travel. If this happens you will receive a full refund. Any incurred expenses for your travel to and from the workshop are not covered by Judy Reinford Photography. We suggest you purchase travel insurance.
Travel
Judy Reinford Photography is not liable for any airline or travel cancellations or delays. Please note that arriving at the workshop one or more days late will not entitle you to any refund.
Weather
Weather conditions are unpredictable, and safety is our top priority. This experience includes five private chartered boat trips to photograph puffins in a secluded location. The Captain reserves the right to cancel any outing due to dangerous or inclement weather. There may be opportunities for one or more individuals to join a later boat, but as all rides are limited to six passengers plus a first mate and captain, the likelihood of everyone getting on a makeup boat for missed morning trips is slim. If multiple people want to participate in a makeup trip, names will be drawn at random. Any trips canceled due to weather and not rescheduled will be refunded at the end of our week-long adventure. Please note, refunds will not be provided for trips missed for personal reasons. Your registration includes up to five boat trips, weather permitting.
Insurance
It is highly recommended to purchase travel and medical insurance for your trip to ensure peace of mind and protection against unforeseen circumstances. This coverage can provide essential assistance in the event of travel delays, cancellations, or medical emergencies, allowing you to fully enjoy your adventure without worry.
Photography
By attending this workshop, you consent to being photographed or videotaped by our team. These images and videos may be utilized in future promotional materials to showcase and advertise our events. Your participation helps us share the excitement and value of our workshops with a broader audience, and we greatly appreciate your cooperation in this matter.
Liability
All attendees will promptly sign liability forms, which include all terms and conditions, via an online form. This form will be sent to you once you have selected your room package in the house. We're thrilled about this exciting adventure! Let's ensure the paperwork is completed at the beginning so we can focus on having fun.
Judy Reinford
Judy Reinford M. Photog., M. Artist, CR., CPP, MAI
Judy's passion for photography began when she was just six years old. She vividly remembers spending hours in the darkroom with her grandpa, the gentle glow of the red light casting a warm hue over the developing images. There was something magical about watching photos come to life in the developing tray. Her grandpa’s instructions, “don’t turn the light on,” and the silent anticipation as the image emerged, left a lasting impression on her. That early experience in the darkroom sparked a fascination with the art of capturing moments and transforming them into visual stories.
In 1989, Judy graduated from Kutztown University with a BFA in Communication Design and Fine Art Photography. She began her career in photography at Hess’s department store, photographing everything from china to jewelry to bed linens. Judy's interest in pet, equine, and zoo photography developed through her involvement in PPA print competitions. This led to a passion for fundraising and donating her finished work to zoo gala silent auctions. She is currently on the board of The Lehigh Valley Zoo Gala Committee, underscoring her dedication to animal conservation.
Judy's studio specializes in pet and equine photography, offering on-location or studio sessions (though they haven't had a horse in the studio yet—just dogs). Her services include digital mixed-media paintings and fairytale composites of both pets and people. Over the past three years, horses have become a significant passion for Judy. She resumed horseback riding in the summer of 2020 and finds photographing these gentle giants, either alone or with their owners, a rewarding experience.
Her teaching seminars have gained national attention, attracting attendees to PPA Community Partners and Photography Guilds across the country. Even small events have seen participants flying in from afar. Achieving the titles of Master Photographer and Master Artist through the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) was an exciting and challenging journey for Judy. PPA offers these prestigious degrees to recognize the significant achievements of its members. Determined to attain both degrees simultaneously, she completed the rigorous process in less than three IPC competitions, a remarkable feat.
In 2023, Judy embraced the future by becoming an educator in the field of AI, teaching the positive aspects and potential of this technology. She is excited to explore how AI can enhance creative processes and push the boundaries of traditional photography and digital art. This new area complements the extensive Photoshop techniques already covered in her online and in-person workshops. I see the future of photography and art evolving rapidly with the integration of advanced technologies like AI. These tools are opening up new possibilities for creativity and expression, allowing artists to push boundaries in ways that were previously unimaginable. I believe that AI will become an integral part of the artistic process, enhancing our ability to create, edit, and share our work.
In this evolving landscape, I hope to be someone on the cutting edge of these advancements, helping to educate and guide students in using AI in a safe and beneficial way. My goal is to demonstrate the positive potential of AI in art and photography, helping others to see the good it can bring to our creative endeavors. By incorporating AI into my workshops and teachings, I aim to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to leverage these technologies effectively, fostering a new generation of artists who are both innovative and responsible.
PPA 2026 Diamond Photographer Of The Year
5 Time Diamond Photographer
5 Time GIA Nominee
ASP IOD Image Of The Year 2025
ISAP Photographer Of The Year 2024
ASP Images Of Distinction, Best In Show Spring 2024
IPC 2024 Double Gold Medalist
2019-2022 PPA International Diamond Photographer Of The Year – Photographic Open
2023 PPA North Carolina Photographer Of The Year
2023, 2022 & 2020 Animal Image Makers - Best Equine Image
2023 Animal Image Makers - Best In Show
2023 Animal Image Makers - Master Of Animal Imaging
2021 Animal Image Makers - Accredited Professional Of Animal Imagery
PPNC Photographer Of The Year 2023
TXPPA Best Other Domestic Animal 2023
ASP 2nd Place Best Animal Portrait 2023
5 Time (2019- 2023) ASP State Elite Award
2021 MPI International Image Challenge - Digital Art Photographer Of The Year
2020 MPI International Image Challenge - Fine Art Photographer Of The Year
2020 - PPA International Platinum Photographer Of The Year – Master Artist
2019 WPPI Second Half Competition Third Place Animal Portrait
2019 ASP Bronze Medallion
2020 Imaging USA - Image Excellence Award
2019 ASP District Award 2019
Imaging USA - Craftsman Degree
2018 - PPA International Gold Photographer Of The Year – Photographic Open
2018 - PPA International Gold Photographer Of The Year – Master Artist
2018 ASP State Elite Award
2018 - PPA Northeast First Place Animal Portrait
2018 Imaging USA - Master Photography Degree and Mast Artist Degree
2017 - PPA International Gold Photographer Of The Year –Photographic Open
2017 - PPA International Platinum Photographer Of The Year – Master Artist
2016 - PPA International Silver Photographer Of The Year –Photographic Open
2016 - PPA International Gold Photographer Of The Year – Master Artist
