Summer always seems to pass in a flash here in the Great North Woods. As a NH photographer who spends as much time as possible outdoors, this season is one of my favorites for chasing light, exploring new places, and finding inspiration in the ever-changing scenery. Over the past couple of months, I’ve been on the road quite a bit, traveling New England in search of those perfect moments that make my heart skip a beat – the kind that become timeless images in my collection of professional fine art photography.
This summer has been a mix of planned trips and spontaneous detours. My goals were simple: capture a variety of subjects that inspire me – from wildlife and landscapes to unique weather conditions, barns, waterfalls, beaches, and wildflowers. While my work as a nature photographer and wildlife photographer often focuses on living creatures, I’ve been trying to expand my summer collection beyond just wildlife and focus more on diverse scenes that tell a broader story of New England’s beauty.
Dixville Notch – Rugged and Serene
One of my first stops was Dixville Notch, a place I’ve returned to many times. Nestled in northern New Hampshire, it’s known for its dramatic cliffs, scenic trails, and the iconic Balsams Resort. I was hoping to find a moose or two – something that’s always on my summer wish list – but once again, luck wasn’t on my side for wildlife sightings.
That said, the landscape more than made up for it. The light filtered through the morning mist, illuminating the rugged rock faces and the lush green canopy below. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love living and working as a NH photographer based in the Great North Woods. Even when I don’t get the shot I came for, I still come away with something special – and often, those surprises are my favorite images of the trip.
Rangeley, Maine – The Moose That Got Away
From Dixville Notch, I headed east toward Rangeley, Maine. This area is known for its lakes, mountain vistas, and yes – moose. I’ve heard countless stories of people seeing these giants right along the roadside or grazing in wetlands. I got up before dawn, parked near a marshy area, and waited with my camera ready. Hours passed, and… nothing. Not even a flick of an ear in the distance.
While it would have been incredible to capture a moose in the soft golden light, the trip wasn’t wasted. I photographed a quiet lakeshore with mirror-like reflections and a field of wildflowers swaying in the breeze. Sometimes, photography is about being open to what’s in front of you rather than what you set out to find.
Burlington, Vermont – Birds in the Woods
Another recent adventure took me to Burlington, Vermont. I didn’t have any big expectations for that trip – just a chance to get away, walk along the waterfront, and see what caught my eye. I ended up spending more time than I planned photographing birds by the lake and in nearby wooded areas.
There’s something so peaceful about sitting still and letting the birds come to you. I spotted songbirds flitting through the branches and was lucky enough to capture a few shots with interesting lighting and backdrops. It was a relaxing break from chasing landscapes, but still a rewarding experience as a wildlife photographer.
The Coast of Maine – Chasing the Sea
Next up was the coast of Maine. I had visions of dramatic rocky shorelines, colorful fishing villages, and maybe even some stormy weather for moody seascapes. Instead, the skies stayed calm and cloudless, and I found myself struggling to capture something that really stood out.
Still, I explored hidden coves and small harbors, photographing the textures of weathered docks and the sparkle of sunlight on the water. I’ve learned that even when the conditions aren’t perfect, there’s beauty in the details – the curve of a fishing boat’s hull, the way the tide leaves patterns in the sand, the glint of shells along the shoreline.
A Cherry Tree Full of Life
Back home, I had an unexpected gift waiting for me – a cherry tree absolutely bursting with berries, and a flock of Cedar Waxwings feasting away. These sleek, masked birds are some of my favorites to watch, and they were in no hurry to leave. I spent several hours photographing them as they hopped from branch to branch, plucking berries with incredible precision.
This was one of those reminders that sometimes the best wildlife photographer moments happen right in your own backyard. I came away with a series of images that I can’t wait to share – the soft green leaves, the bright red cherries, and the subtle elegance of the Cedar Waxwings all came together perfectly.
More Than Just Wildlife
While my heart will always be drawn to photographing animals, this summer has been a conscious effort to look beyond just the wildlife photographer side of my work. As a nature photographer, I’ve been seeking out interesting barns that tell the story of rural New England, waterfalls that are tucked away in the woods, and fields full of wildflowers swaying under summer skies.
I’ve chased weather – dramatic storm clouds rolling over the mountains, fog settling in the valleys, and sunsets that set the horizon on fire. I’ve stood in streams to capture long exposures of waterfalls and wandered down dirt roads to find hidden meadows. This variety is what makes my collection of professional fine art photography truly feel complete.
Fine Art Prints for Your Home or Business
All of these summer adventures feed into the growing gallery of fine art prints I offer through Herres Photography. Whether it’s a moody coastal scene, a peaceful mountain vista, or an intimate wildlife portrait, each piece is created to bring the beauty of New England into your home or workspace. My goal is to create artwork that not only looks beautiful but also sparks a connection – to a place, a season, or a memory.
Fun Along the Way
If there’s one thing this summer has reinforced for me, it’s that photography is as much about the journey as it is about the final image. Yes, it’s thrilling to get “the shot” I’ve been dreaming of, but the early mornings, the quiet drives, the unexpected finds – those are what make me love what I do.
Being a NH photographer based in the Great North Woods gives me an incredible home base for exploring, and traveling New England keeps me inspired. Every trip, whether it’s to the mountains, the coast, or just down the road, has the potential to reveal something beautiful.
As I head into the later part of summer and start thinking about autumn’s colors, I’m excited to keep exploring, keep creating, and keep sharing my view of the world through my lens. Whether it’s wildlife, landscapes, or something in between, I’m grateful for every opportunity to do what I love – and to offer those moments as fine art prints for others to enjoy.
