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Puffins! Capturing The Charm 2027 Information

An Immersive Puffin Photography Experience in Northern Maine


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.  

New for 2027 An Extraordinary Opportunity - Machais Seal Island

Machias Seal Island is a small, rugged island about ten miles off the coast of Cutler, Maine. It’s windswept, remote, and honestly a little wild in the best possible way. It also has an interesting history because it sits at the center of a long-standing territorial dispute between the United States and Canada. The lighthouse on the island is maintained by the Canadian Coast Guard, and staff live there year-round.
 
In the summer, though, the island becomes all about birds.
  
Machias Seal Island is a protected nesting area for thousands of seabirds, including Atlantic Puffins, Razorbills, Common Murres, and Arctic Terns. The puffins are, of course, the stars of the show, but the entire island is alive with movement, sound, and activity. It’s one of those places that is hard to fully describe until you’ve actually been there.  For photographers, this trip is especially unique. Machias Seal Island is the only place where you can leave from the United States and potentially photograph Atlantic puffins from land. That makes the experience feel much more personal and immersive than photographing them from a boat. You are close to the birds, at eye level, watching them fly in, interact, preen, call, and go about the very serious business of being puffins.

Because this is a real wildlife location in the open ocean, there are no guarantees. Landings depend entirely on weather and sea conditions, and safety always comes first.  If we are not able to land, the trip is still absolutely worthwhile. We will spend time around the island by boat, photographing puffins in flight, birds on the water, seabirds along the cliffs, and often harbor or gray seals resting on the rocks. Some of my favorite images from trips like this come from the unexpected moments.  Getting onto the island is part of the adventure. We transfer from the main boat into a smaller skiff that takes us to shore. Depending on the tide and conditions, you may need to step carefully, balance a bit, and possibly get your feet wet. Help is provided, but the terrain on the island can be uneven and slippery, so participants should be comfortable with a little bit of physical challenge and have reasonably sure footing.
  
This is not a polished, sanitized wildlife experience, and that is exactly what makes it special. It feels raw, real, and deeply connected to the natural world. For photographers, Machias Seal Island offers a rare combination of dramatic location, incredible wildlife, and the chance to make images that truly stand apart. 


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.

4-5 days, you'll head out on a private charter boat, 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 opportunity 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.


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.

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.

Information


How do I get there? The best airport to fly into is Bang0r, Maine. The location is about 1.5 hours northeast of Banger. It is a nice drive, and there are places to stop along the way. The town we are staying in is very small with only a few restaurants. Nothing in town is open on Monday night. If flying into Bangor on Monday, you might want to eat a big late lunch before heading to the rural part of the state. 

All morning tours are weather-dependent; the captain will not go out in rough seas or heavy rain. Safety first. If a morning tour is canceled, you will receive a refund at the conclusion of the trip for the days we did not go out. 5 excursions are included with this trip; you may choose not to go out on any day if you are tired and worn out, but you will not receive a refund if the boat runs as scheduled.

Monday, June 21st: Arrive at the house any time after 4 pm. We will get to know each other and cover gear, settings, and departure times. Yay! We can head out for an evening adventure since sunset is so late.

Tuesday, June 22nd: Continental Breakfast set out by 6 am, we depart for the boat by 6:45 am, with a 10 am return, and then we will have the afternoon to review images and discuss settings. Depending on the weather and tides, we will head out to 1 of 2 locations for sunset seascape photography.

Wednesday, June 23rd: Continental Breakfast set out by 6 am, we depart for the boat by 6:45 am with a 10 am return. Lunch is on your own, and this will be a “choose your own adventure” day, for shopping, sightseeing, image review, or napping! Bar Harbor and Belfast are within an easy 2-hour drive. 

Thursday, June 24th: Continental Breakfast; on your own day. TBA

Friday, June 25th: Continental Breakfast set out by 6 am, we depart for the boat by 6:45 am with a 10 am return.  The afternoon is set aside for image review or exploring on your own. Dinner is on your own.

Saturday, June 26th and Sunday, June 27th; Continental Breakfast set out by 6 am, we depart for the boat by 6:45 am with a 10 am return. After we return, the afternoon is set aside for image review or exploring on your own. Dinner is on your own.

Monday, June 28: Continental Breakfast; on your own day. TBA

Tues, June 29: Departure Day.

One of these mornings will be our trip to Machias Seal Island. That date will be scheduled later in the year with the charter.

The 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 2 on the first floor, traveling with a friend or Spouse? This room is perfect.


The house is an old historical property that has been beautifully renovated. It has AC on all 3 floors, and the third floor was the coolest when we stayed there. The bathrooms are on the second floor for the second and third floor rooms.

Luxury First Floor Suite. ON HOLD

This is the most lavish room, perfect for those desiring first-floor convenience with no steps to navigate. The grand master first-floor suite is one of a kind and will surely make you feel like royalty! This space features a slate open rain shower, clawfoot soaking tub, king bed, huge ornamental chandelier, and fireplace. There is a private toilet. This room is not available for sharing with another photographer.  Our first-floor guest room has a bathroom. We kindly ask that you allow others to use the bathroom when we are working on images. This is the only bathroom on the first floor.

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, Single Supplement Available.


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. This room may be shared with another photographer. 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.
Fear not the third floor is as comfortable as the rest of the house! Trust me!

The House At A Glance

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

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What puffin photography locations are included in this workshop?
This workshop includes opportunities to photograph puffins in two different locations: Petit Manan Island and Machias Seal Island. Our Petit Manan Island trips are boat-based. We will not land on the island. These trips leave directly from the harbor in Milbridge, the town where we are staying. Our Machias Seal Island trip is a different experience. Weather and sea conditions permitting, this trip may allow participants to land on the island and photograph puffins from blinds. Machias Seal Island landings are always dependent on safe conditions and are not guaranteed. Bold Coast Charter notes that island landings may be affected by wind, rolling seas, and overall sea conditions. The island is 10 miles off the coast of Maine.

How many Petit Manan puffin boat trips are included?
The workshop includes four scheduled boat trips to Petit Manan Island, weather and sea conditions permitting. These trips are designed specifically for our photography group. We will be the only people on the boat for these Petit Manan outings, which gives us a more focused, flexible, photography-centered experience.
 
Will we land on Petit Manan Island?
No. We will not land on Petit Manan Island. All photography at Petit Manan will be done from the boat. Petit Manan is part of a protected seabird nesting habitat. During nesting season, seabird islands in the Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge Complex are closed to the public to minimize disturbance to birds; commercial tour boats provide views of nesting seabirds from the water.

Where does the Petit Manan boat leave from?
The Petit Manan boat leaves directly from the harbor in Milbridge, Maine, which is where we are staying. This is one of the big advantages of this workshop. We do not need to drive a long distance before those boat trips. We can have breakfast at the house, gather our gear, and head to the harbor from town. We leave early, though!

What is the Petit Manan boat experience like?
The Petit Manan trips are smaller-boat, boat-based photography outings. We will photograph puffins, seabirds, the lighthouse, and coastal wildlife from the water. Because we are photographing from a boat, participants should be comfortable working with a long lens while standing or seated on a moving platform. The boat may rock, and conditions may vary from calm to choppy depending on the weather and sea state. Foggy conditions can happen as well.

What lens do you recommend for Petit Manan?
For Petit Manan, we recommend a 400–800mm lens or a similar long telephoto setup. Because we will be photographing from the boat and will not be landing on the island or photographing from blinds, so the extra reach is helpful.

Is the Machias Seal Island trip different from Petit Manan?
Yes. These are two very different puffin experiences. Petit Manan is boat-based. We stay on the boat, photograph from the water, and do not land. Machias Seal Island involves landing on the island and photographing from blinds, if weather and sea conditions allow. Machias Seal Island is known as one of the rare places accessible from the U.S. where the public may photograph Atlantic puffins from land, and Bold Coast Charter is the U.S.-based company authorized for those landings.

Will we definitely land on Machias Seal Island?
No. A landing on Machias Seal Island is not guaranteed. Machias Seal Island is exposed, offshore, and subject to changing sea conditions. The captain makes safety decisions based on wind, surf, visibility, rolling seas, and the ability to safely transfer passengers. We will be notified of our departure time the night before our trip by the company.  If our trip is cancelled due to weather, you will be issued a refund by check after we return home. If our trip is not cancelled but a landing is not possible, no refund will be issued. There may still be opportunities to view and photograph seabirds from the water, but the blind experience depends on safe landing conditions.

How far away is the boat for Machias Seal Island?
The boat leaves from Cutler Harbor, about an hour away from our location. We will need to be on the road very early (3:30 am) to make our departure time.

What is the Machias Seal Island landing like?
The Machias Seal Island landing is more physically involved than the Petit Manan boat trips. Participants may need to transfer from the main boat to a smaller craft and then onto rocky, uneven shoreline. Once on the island, photography is done from blinds to minimize disturbance to the nesting birds. This experience requires balance, mobility, and comfort moving carefully on wet or uneven surfaces.

What lens should I bring for Machias Seal Island?
For Machias Seal Island, puffins may come much closer than they do during boat-based photography, especially if we are able to photograph from blinds. A two-camera setup with 1 lens in the 100–400mm, 100–500mm, or even 200–600mm, and on the second camera a 70-200 or a 24-105 can work well. A wider lens (16-35mm) for landscapes, harbors, sunsets, and coastal scenes.

Do I need a tripod?
You will not need a tripod for most puffin photography from the boat. On a moving boat, handholding or using image stabilization is generally more practical. A tripod may be useful for sunset, seascapes, landscape work, or slower shutter-speed coastal images. If you bring one, choose something sturdy but manageable.
 
What camera gear should I bring?
Recommended gear includes: DSLR or mirrorless camera body
Long telephoto lens, ideally 400–800mm or similar for Petit Manan
Telephoto zoom such as 100–400mm, 100–500mm, or 200–600mm, and a 24-105 or  70-200 for Machias Seal Island
Wide-angle or midrange lens for landscapes and coastal scenes (16-35mm)
Extra batteries
Plenty of memory cards, larger memory cards are better for the boat. It is really hard to change cards on the boat.
Rain cover for the camera and lens
Lens cloths
Comfortable camera strap or harness
Camera backpack or dry bag
Laptop for image review/editing
Card reader
External drive or backup method

What should I wear on the boat?
Dress in layers. Even in June, mornings on the water can be cool, windy, and damp.
Recommended clothing includes:
Warm base layer or fleece.
Windproof or rain-resistant outer layer.
Quick-dry pants.
Sturdy shoes with good grip, wool or synthetic socks.
A hat for warmth and wind.
Sun hat or brimmed hat for brighter days.
Sunscreen Sunglasses.
Thin gloves if your hands get cold easily.
For the Machias Seal Island trip, shoes with excellent grip are especially important because landing conditions can involve wet, rocky, uneven terrain.

How physically demanding is this workshop?
The workshop is generally easy to moderate, but the two puffin experiences have different physical demands. The Petit Manan trips are boat-based and do not require landing on an island. Participants should be comfortable boarding a smaller boat, moving carefully on deck, and photographing from a boat. The Machias Seal Island trip is more physically demanding if a landing occurs. It may involve boat transfer, uneven footing, wet rocks, and walking carefully to and from the blinds.

What happens if the weather affects the boat trips?
The weather is part of coastal wildlife photography. Fog, wind, rain, changing light, and sea conditions may affect departure times, boat routes, island landings, or optional evening outings. We have multiple puffin opportunities built into the schedule, including four Petit Manan trips and one Machias Seal Island experience. If conditions interfere with one plan, we will adjust as needed. Options may include image review, editing instruction, local scouting, eagle photography, coastal landscapes, rest time, or schedule changes.

Will we photograph anything besides puffins?
Yes. Puffins are the main attraction, but we may also photograph other seabirds, including eagles, coastal landscapes, the Petit Manan lighthouse, working harbors, rocky shoreline, sunset scenes, and possibly eagles at a nearby location. The exact opportunities will depend on weather, tides, light, wildlife activity, and boat conditions.

Are the Petit Manan trips private?
Yes. For the four Petit Manan boat trips, our group will be the only people on the boat. This is a major benefit for photographers. We will not be sharing space with a general sightseeing group, and the outing can be more focused on photography.

Are image reviews included?
Yes. We will build in time for image review, camera settings discussion, troubleshooting, and editing support. These sessions are especially useful because we can review what happened during a morning boat trip and make adjustments before the next outing.

What skill level is this workshop best for?
This workshop is appropriate for enthusiastic beginners through experienced photographers. You should be comfortable using your camera, changing settings, and working with a telephoto lens. You do not need to be an expert wildlife photographer. We will discuss autofocus strategies, shutter speed, exposure, composition, and how to adapt to changing boat, light, and wildlife conditions.

Can I come if I mostly want the experience and not the intense instruction?
Yes. Some participants enjoy deep technical discussion and image review, while others want a beautiful, well-organized wildlife photography experience with guidance when needed. The workshop will include instruction and support, but it is not meant to feel like a photography boot camp. During the day, you have the option to head out on your own for adventure.

Can my spouse/partner come too?
Yes, we can accommodate one non-photographing spouse or partner when space allows. A non-photographing spouse or partner would share the first-floor bedroom with the participating photographer. This bedroom has its own private bathroom. Non-photographing guests are welcome to join the group activities, including the boat trips and eagle photography outings, even though they are not participating as photographers. Because non-photographing guests are not receiving the full photography instruction, their fee is lower than the full photographer workshop price. However, because they still benefit from lodging, planning, curated locations, transportation logistics, boat access, group outings, meals or shared supplies where applicable, and the overall workshop experience, the non-photographing guest fee is still a substantial portion of the regular workshop price. This option is limited, must be arranged in advance, and is available only when lodging and group logistics allow. Please contact Judy before registering to discuss availability and pricing.

Can I share a bedroom with another photographer?
Our workshop pricing is based on single-occupancy lodging, with one photographer assigned to each available bedroom whenever possible.  We do have one third-floor bedroom with two beds that may be used as a shared-room option for two photographers traveling together. However, this option is only available after the private bedrooms have been filled or once the workshop minimum has been met and room assignments are finalized.  If a shared-room arrangement is approved, the only discount applied is to the lodging portion of the workshop fee. Each photographer still pays the full cost of instruction, boat trips, outings, supplies, planning, and included workshop experiences.  Shared-room availability is limited, not guaranteed, and must be arranged in advance.

What meals are included?
Continental breakfasts will be available at the house each morning. Lunch fixings will also be available at the house so participants can make simple lunches around the workshop schedule. Restaurant meals, dinners, snacks while exploring, and meals eaten independently away from the house are not included unless specifically stated.

Is lodging included?
Yes. Lodging at the workshop house is included for the listed workshop dates. Participants should plan to arrive after 4:00 pm on Monday, June 21, and depart on Tuesday, June 29, 2027, by 10 am.

Do I need my own transportation?
Yes. Participants are responsible for transportation to and from Milbridge, Maine. Because the Petit Manan boat leaves from Milbridge, we will not have a long drive for those outings. However, participants may want a vehicle for independent exploring, optional activities, shopping, sightseeing, or meals out. For group outings, we may coordinate carpools of 2 to 3 cars when practical, but participants should not assume that all transportation will be provided.

What if I get seasick?
Both Petit Manan and Machias Seal Island involve boat travel. If you are prone to motion sickness, please plan ahead and bring whatever motion-sickness remedy works for you. Check with your physician or pharmacist if you are unsure what is appropriate. It is much better to prepare and not need it than to discover your inner sea tragedy halfway to the puffins. In the past, participants have had good results with Dramamine, Seabands, or Relief Bands. Ginger chews work really well, too.

Will I get good photos?
Wildlife photography always involves variables: weather, light, bird behavior, distance, sea conditions, and timing. That said, this workshop is designed to give you multiple strong opportunities: four private boat-based trips to Petit Manan, plus the Machias Seal Island experience, conditions permitting. We will help you prepare, adjust settings, review images, and make the most of the conditions we are given.

What is not included?
Unless otherwise stated, participants are responsible for: Transportation to and from Milbridge, Maine. Dinners, restaurant meals, and meals while exploring independently. Travel insurance, Personal expenses, Souvenirs, optional admissions, or independent activities. Acadia National Park requires a park pass.

Should I purchase travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. This is a coastal wildlife photography workshop with boat trips, lodging, weather-dependent activities, and travel logistics. Travel insurance can help protect you in case of illness, travel disruption, weather-related cancellations, or personal emergencies.

Important Note About Wildlife, Weather, and Boat Conditions.
This is a real wildlife photography experience, not a controlled photo session. Puffin activity, eagle activity, sunset color, fog, wind, tides, sea conditions, boat departures, and island landings are outside our control. We have designed the workshop to include multiple puffin opportunities at both Petit Manan and Machias Seal Island, but all boat-based activities are subject to safe operating conditions. We will adjust the schedule as needed to give the group the best possible photographic opportunities while keeping safety and wildlife respect as top priorities.


Terms and Conditions

Canceling And Refund Policy

PLEASE NOTE: The paid-in-full option has no refund; however, 50% of the fee can be used for private mentoring or online classes, if cancelled more than 180 days before trip.

Canceled 180 days or more before June 1st, 2027, 50% of the paid amount ( except the paid-in-full discounted amount ) for future workshop credit, minus a $250 admin fee.

Canceled 179 -  90 days - No refund

Canceled 90 - 1 day before - No refund

Cancelation Of  Workshop

The workshop can be canceled 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. Similarly, choosing to leave early for any reason will not entitle you to a refund. 

Weather

Weather conditions are unpredictable, and safety is our top priority. This experience includes four private chartered boat trips to photograph puffins in a secluded location, and one boat trip opportunity to try to photograph puffins on land. 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