Maine Photography Studio-Maine's Premier Newborn Photographer: Blog

Are you a photographer?

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 10:41:18 GMT

April 3, 2019 • Leave a Comment

We all get so hung up on our camera's don't we?

As technological advances take place camera phones improve, everyone has some sort of camera and is a fine art photographer. I will forever remember a conversation that I had with a friend of mine Ed Bicknell. We were having a discussion about the art of photography marketing. I was explaining that every corner I turn around there is a new budding photographer flooding the market with me too images, creating market value confusion. I will never forget what he said next...

Not everyone who owns a camera is a photographer. Stop and think about it. Because someone owns a typewriter are they a writer? Own a tool box, a qualified finished carpenter? Have a set of paint brushes in the house? You must be the next Leonardo da Vinci. Lingerie from Victoria Secret, a supermodel? Do they often think they are...yes. Are they? No. They cannot sustain in this market. Yes their friends and family will ooh and ahhh at their images. But will true collectors support their art? All of these take passion, talent, gut instinct, not just book smart, but street smart and experience.

Ed Bicknell is an accomplished writer, inspirational public speaker and exquisite film photographer. His family owned Bicknell Photo Service In Portland, Maine. It is considered and remembered to this day as a leader in photography services. I guess what I'm saying is that he is more than qualified to make these statements.

Just something to think about the next time you take a look at the artist market around you and how you fit into it.

In the meantime I will leave you with a funny short video

PS: DID YOU GET IT?

Keywords: Maine, Photography", lewiston, lewiston maine photographer, maine, maine photography studio, maine portrait photographer, mppa, ppa, ppane, professional, professional photographer, brenda giasson, PPA certified professional photographer

LOCAL ARTIST ATTENDS PRESTIGIOUS NEW ENGLAND INSTITUTE OF PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Mon, 18 Apr 2016 04:01:00 GMT

Former Playboy Photographer teaches class in Maine

Mon, 11 Apr 2016 05:00:00 GMT

Earlier this month I was blessed with the opportunity to participate in a workshop on posing and lighting with the legendary Lou Freeman.

Lou's story is one that you can't help being inspired. The second female photographer hired by playboy, she created beautiful images for their clients for 12 years. She's worked with models, top names, stars and magazines all over the world. With a celebrity client list that includes the names of Jamie Fox, Niki Taylor, Jack Nicholas, Tiger Woods, Lisa ‘Left Eye’ Lopes, just to name a few. Images featured in 100's of magazines with the likes of Vogue, Glamour, Vanity Fair, Elle, people, Modern Bride and corporate clients like, Saks, Macy's, Ralph Lauren, Target... The list goes on and on.

A lot of photographers with these credentials would have spent the entire day telling us how wonderful they were, Lou very humbled and down to earth spoke from the heart sharing her passion for creating images with impact. What I learned during this workshop is that Lou may be beautiful inside and out but what she is a able to create far out weights any client list or job. She has an eye for painting with light to create a mood or emotion that doesn't just lay on the page it jumps off and into your heart.

First let me clarify a little when I say painting with light. I do not mean the type of photography that you hear about where someone goes out at night with a flashlight, leaves their shutter open and lights up areas in a scene. What I mean is that she selectively uses photography lights (scrims, snoots, umbrellas, gels, beauty dish, barn doors...) to highlight areas in an image that she wants to draw attention to, a background, facial features, legs, props creating mood, drama, emotion.

If you guessed I loved the class you would be right on target. I would recommend that anyone who has an opportunity to work or learn from Lou grab that chance. Here are a few of the images I took during her class. Models: Siobhan Murtiff, Shauna Rae Riordan and Arianna Cian-Prichard. Hair: Alisha Salisbury Makeup: Rosangela McCann. Stylist, set director, and amazing teacher- Lou Freeman.

High School Seniors Summer Models Wanted

Sun, 12 Jul 2015 14:00:00 GMT

It's your senior year, summers here what better time to get your senior photo than is the fun of summer! Vintage cars, trucks, muddin, horseback riding, the beach, sports or even the arts if your a music fan! You may even want to Rock that Promo Dress!

We are putting a shout out for our Summer Senior Program. If you are interested in obtaining a free senior photo session and electronic image of your choice to use for your senior yearbook you should register.

The Maine Photography Studio is located at 145 Lisbon Street, Suite 604 in Lewiston. We are getting our promotions ready for senior's and have some new ideas and venues we want to promote. That's where you come in.

If you love adventure, fun and spontaneity contact me HERE in the message be sure to get me know your interested in the Senior Summer Session, (I dare you to say that 5 times fast) your age and what town you live in.

Taking your senior photo should be fun and what better way than as a Senior Summer Model for the Maine Photography Studio!

Maternity and Newborn Studio Models Needed - Maine Photography Studio

Wed, 08 Jul 2015 22:30:00 GMT

This is such a fun time of year for me. This is when I do my call out for projects and promotions. I already have some planned mini sessions all that's missing is my models for the promo images!

I also use models from time to time when we receive new studio props or lighting. We are always looking for studio models to help promote new creative ideas and props. If you have an infant or toddler (any age) and would like to sign up to be considered for such a project I would love to hear from you. In exchange for services we provide electronic images for use on FaceBook.

Please visit my contact site and complete the informational form. Be sure to list the names and ages of your little ones. Click here to enter your information HERE We look forward to hearing from you. If you are selected I will contact you a few weeks in advance before the session to ensure you are available. If your pregnant and would like to be considered for a Bellies and Babies promotion please complete the form HERE and send me a note through my web contact me form letting me know your due date and any other information you would like to share.

Photos are taken in my studio at 145 Lisbon Street, Suite 604 in Lewiston, Maine and on locations all over the State of Maine especially while the weather is nice. Don't wait to sign up only a limited few will be selected for this years campaigns. Talk to you soon!

Tote Bags, Pillows and Duvet Covers...oh my!

Sat, 06 Jun 2015 15:46:03 GMT

That's right the Maine Photography Studio in conjunction with Sevastra Photography now offers your images or mine on tote bags, pillows as large as 26x26 and even duvet covers for your bedroom.

Tote Bags- Sizes available: 13x13, 15x15 and 18x18

Prices range between $23.00 to 26.00! made from soft, durable, poly-poplin fabric and include a 1" black strap for easy carrying on your shoulder. All seams are double-stitched for added durability. Each tote bag is machine-washable in cold water and is printed on both sides using the same image. Here are a few samples.

Love to cuddle up with a pillow while reading or watching TV? We now have those as well! Can you tell I'm excited? These throw pillows are available in 14x14, 16x16, 18x18, 20x20, 26x26 and 26x14. These make a great gift for new grandparents, Mom, Dad, graduations, even your bestest friend. The prices range from a limited time promotional price of $32.00 to $36.00. Here are a few pillow samples.

Made from 100% cotton fabric and add a stylish statement to any room. Each pillow is printed on both sides (same image) and includes a concealed zipper and removable insert (if selected) for easy cleaning.

BUY them, LOVE them, THROW them!

As I promised... Duvet Covers. Available in twin, full, queen and king size. Soft microfiber duvet covers are hand sewn and include a hidden zipper for easy washing and assembly. Your selected image is printed on the top surface with a soft white surface underneath. All duvet covers are machine washable with cold water and a mild detergent. Prices range from $112. to 135.00. I can even make a collage of your images for you! Samples of how this might look on your bed.

So if you are interested in seeing what your photo would look like please contact me at either brenda@sevastra.com or 207-576-8557 for a sample preview.

Art2013 Opens May 10, 2013

Fri, 10 May 2013 11:45:00 GMT

Come out and visit Harlow Art Gallery in historic Hallowell, Maine for the opening of their annual juried show Art2013 on May 10th 2013.

The opening of Art2013 starts at 5:00pm, with an awards ceremony starting at 6pm. Cash prizes sponsored by Art Collector Maine, The Bank of Maine, Aucocisco Gallery and Maine Film Center. The opening is free and open to the public.

The 18th annual juried show was judged by Bob Keyes (Arts Reporter at Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram) and Dan Kany (Art Review at Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram) 60 works of art by 48 artists were juried into the exhibition, out of a total of 334 works submitted by 123 artists. The show will be on display until June 1, 2013

I am very pleased to be included in the 48 artists who are in the show this year.

The Harlow Art Gallery is located 160 Water Street in downtown Hallowell.
GALLERY HOURS
Wed & Sat noon-6 pm, Thu & Fri noon - 8pm
(Except when we are between shows.)
Also open by chance or by appointment.

Maine Photography Show 2013

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 19:49:00 GMT

The Maine Photography Show is the annual premier juried gallery show of photography in Maine. The show takes place at the Boothbay Region Art Foundation (BRAF) gallery in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. The 2013 show is on exhibit April 13 though May 3rd, 2013 and includes some of the best photographers in the state. If you have a chance be sure to stop by One Townsend Avenue and ask June to show you around the gallery. I guarantee you will not be disappointed. The gallery sits right on the corner in the heart of town.

I always love it when my photo is included near the front door but reality is not everyone's can be and anyhow I was really pleased to see that it was placed right next to the Black and White First Place Winner- The Final Good-Bye - by Charles Laurier Dufour. I truly admire his work.
Below is my image that was selected to be in the show.

Want to see more of Maine? Visit my website. Click on the image below.

50th Anniversary of the Windjammer Festival June 24-27th, 2012

Sat, 23 Jun 2012 20:13:00 GMT

Boothbay Harbor, Maine will celebrate 50 years of Windjammer Days June 24th-June27th, 2012.

The festivities will include Pancake Breakfast's, Antique Boat Parade, Waterfront Pirate's attack the harbor, be sure to watch your manners or you may even be asked to walk the plank!

On Wednesday the Windjammer Fleet will be arriving in full sail in the harbor. If you are feeling adventurous sign up for a harbor tour. Cap'n Fishs Cruises will be meeting the windjammers further out into the ocean and following them into port. It's a wonderful opportunity for photographers to take pictures of the windjammers out in the open ocean under full sail.

To finish the event off be sure to stay in town for the street parade and fireworks! Click here http://www.boothbayharbor.com/media/documents/WJD-Schedule.pdf for a complete listing of events.

In honor of the 50th Anniversary of the Windjammer Festival the Boothbay Harbor Arts Foundation Gallery will have a special exhibit focusing on windjammers. Be sure to check it out while in town. The gallery is located at one Townsend Avenue right in the heart of Boothbay Harbor.

My contribution to the festival will be on display(pictured above) and available for purchase at the gallery along with 8 other unframed works for customers who prefer to purchase unframed artwork for traveling ease. Be sure to visit the photography room on the second floor.

Can't make it to the festival? Want to enjoy the harbor? On Friday evening July 6th from 5-7pm the gallery will be hosting it's opening reception. The reception is open to the public. It's a wonderful opportunity to meet the artists, including myself. After the opening McSeagull's is the place to visit for some wonderful food and entertainment.

I hope to see you there!

Hot Summer Nights

Thu, 24 May 2012 20:55:00 GMT

What are you doing on Friday Night? The signs of Summer are all around on this special start to the summer season.

On May 25th The Boothbay Harbor Regional Art Foundation will kickoff summer with a special Grand Opening Reception from 5-7pm. Enjoy the cool breezes of summer along with some of Maine's finest art. Area artists are expected to be on hand at this fun festive event. It's sure to have something for everyone. Pleased note this is an indoor event at 1 Townsend Avenue in the heart of Boothbay Harbor, Maine.

If you an art collector, what a great time to meet the fine artists who love Maine and spend their time capturing it's beauty for all to enjoy. The gallery has photography and paintings hanging for you to view, admire and take home with you, as well as special pricing and great values in the bin art area. Bin art is an opportunity for collectors to purchase a quality print, already dry mounted and matted ready for framing.

Sevastra Photography will have images framed and available in the bin art area.

After the event be sure to stop by one of Boothbay Harbor's wonderful restaurants. I know I'll be enjoying my time at McSeagull's one of Boothbay's finest. My favorite? Everything!

Hope to see you at the gallery grand opening. The Boothbay Harbor Art Gallery is located at 1 Townsend Avenue on the corner. Be sure to look for the blue awning. The fun starts at 5pm!

Be sure to visit me on Facebook or follow me on Twitter

Summer in Maine

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 14:32:00 GMT

Wow that sounds really nice doesn't it?
Summer in Maine conjures up visions of spending the day in Coo's Canyon collecting pollywog's, looking for unique river rocks to make a cool sculpture, panning for gold in the Swift River, Flyfishing in the Kennebec and lounging in the canyons for a relaxing rushing river water massage. That's just a speck of what type of healthy fun Maine has to offer it's residents and summer visitors.

Once someone visits Maine they will never be the same again. Quaint fishing village's, antique stores, art galleries,lighthouses and scenic harbor vista's dot Route 1. Just when you think it couldn't get any better... You turn a corner and you can see the mountains and walk along waterfalls on the Appalachian trail.

As a scenic photographer I could not ask to live any closer to some of the best scenery in the nation. If you are interested in having a little bit of Maine all to yourself at home please take a moment and visit my website www.sevastra.com or brenda-giasson.artistwebsites.com .

If your lucky enough to visit Maine please be sure to stop picturesque Boothbay Harbor and visit the Boothbay Harbor Regional Art Foundation Gallery, located in the heart of Boothbay Harbor at 1 Townsend Avenue. They offer the very best artwork created by Maine's resident painters and photographers.

For those of you that are already fortunate enough to be in Maine please be sure to stop by the Maine Photography Show. The show opens to the public on Saturday, April 14, and continues to Saturday, May 5. The exhibition takes place at the gallery of the Boothbay Region Art Foundation,at One Townsend Avenue, Boothbay Harbor and is considered to be the premiere photography show of the year. Upcoming events in Maine: Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Festival 6/24-6/27/2012 Rockland Lobster Festival 8/1-8/5/2012 Maine Open Lighthouse Day 9/15/2012

Color Your World~For Free

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 13:47:00 GMT

Just a quick snippet...did you know that this Saturday, March 17, 2012 your local Ace Hardware store will help you find your Soul Paint, your perfect match... For FREE!!

That's right! Be sure to visit their website by clicking here , print out the coupon to qualify for a free quart of your Soul Paint.

I know what I'm doing this Saturday. Do you ??

Date Night

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 10:30:00 GMT

Looking for something fun to do on a budget?

Did you know that the Portland Museum of Art in Portland, Maine is open Free on Friday evenings from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m? What's even better is that the Museum's current exhibits are truly exciting!
Making Faces: Photographic Portraits of Actors and Artists
Available January 14, 2012 - April 8, 2012

Tanja Alexia Hollander: Are You Really My Friend?
Available February 4, 2012 - June 17, 2012

You may have heard of the exhibit "Are You Really My Friend? on the news recently. It was a brainchild of a Westbrook Women. Asking the question we all ask...Is that person on my Facebook Page really my friend? Artist Tanja Alexia Hollander travels visiting and photographing her Facebook Friends. For anyone who has asked that same question about their Facebook Page ~This is an exhibit that would be a crime to miss! It's also a great opportunity to get dressed up and get out of the house!

PS: If your not my friend on Facebook I would love it if you would check me out and consider being my friend. Visit my FB page Who know maybe we'll run into one another at the exhibit.

Starting on March 2, 2012 the First Friday Art Walk begins in Portland, Maine. The Art Walk is a self guided tour of museums, galleries and various art venues throughout Portland. It's a great opportunity to get outside or inside/out as the case may be and enjoy some art, mingle with friends and make some new friends. Over 50+ galleries and art venues will be participating. Click here to visit the website to download the printable pocket map and listing.

Got It!

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 04:11:00 GMT

The weather has been great in Maine. That is if you don't own a ski resort. So far this winter it's been remarkably mild. As a landscape photographer I love it! Now if we could just do something about the COLD. Brrrrrr

Last month I blogged about a local photographer, Roger Duncan who was teaching a course on Portrait Photography. Needless to say the class sold out and started last week. !st weeks homework...take lots of portraits before the next class and I have....nada,ziltch,zippo and 3 days left! Lot's of ideas about fashion photography but what I was hoping to come away with is a better understanding on posing people.

If you are interested in having your portrait taken for the class or have any thoughts on the art of portraiture I would love for you to comment to this blog or email me at brenda@sevastra.com

In the meantime I will leave you with a funny short video PS: DID YOU GET IT?

Picture Perfect

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:39:00 GMT

Want to get more out of that new camera you received for Christmas? You could read the book, wing it or take a class... As for me I'm taking a class and I didn't even get a new camera!

Roger S. Duncan, a photographer from Bath, Maine will be holding classes in both Bath and Lewiston. He has led Adult Education classes since 2006 in our area.His teaching methods are very down to earth. He makes it easy and fun to learn.

Many times even the most seasoned photographer may like to take a local class but does not because, lets face it, this is a competitive industry. Roger makes everyone feel comfortable learning from each other. My personal experience is that he has a natural knack at bringing the group together, building team spirit and camaraderie.

His programs cover topics including basic, fine art, photojournalism, sports, and portraiture. He has a basic class starting late January and a portrait class in February.

If it sounds like something you would be interested in click on the following link for more information. TAKE BETTER PICTURES

Maybe I will even see you in his portraiture class! PS:They are soo affordable too!

Let me leave you with a small tid-bit a friend of mine who is very well known for his experience in the photography industry told me one day when I said...
..."What can a photographer do to make money in this industry when everyone has a camera, is taking and selling pictures?" As serious as could be, he replied... Always remember not everyone who has a typewriter can write a novel. Just because they have a camera doesn't make them a photographer. It makes them just someone who owns a camera.

Opening your mind and exposing yourself to new ideas, concepts and training can make you a better photographer.

Where can you find out more about me? Try some of these links.
My Website
Another one of my sites
See me on Red Bubble for iphone cases
Sevastra on Posterous
Check me out on Twitter
I would love it if you LIKE me on Facebook!!

Portland, Me Art Walk -Fri. January 6, 2012

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 18:32:00 GMT

Welcome to 2012!
To start the year off right Portland, Maine is having their first Friday Art Walk of the year on Friday, January 6, 2012 from 5-8pm

We will be featuring our artwork at ART HOUSE PICTURE FRAMES
61 Pleasant Street, Bakery Studio Building #110
drawn and quartered: hidden treasures of the studio
art house picture frames collaborates with drawing room artists ransack studios to bring you small affordable works exhibit curated by alex rheault and abbeth russell
www.arthousepictureframes.com
207 272 4800
Venue Description: Picture framing and gallery space.
Regular Business Hours: Monday - Saturday 10:00 - 6:00.
Directions: Located at 61 Pleasant Street right next to Artemisia Cafe, in the Bakery Studios Building.

I hope you have an opportunity to stop by during the opening Art Walk. If not, our artwork at ART HOUSE PICTURE FRAMES until January 31,2012.

See you soon!
Brenda

Merry Christmas!

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 04:38:00 GMT

Click on the Merry Christmas on my blog to view a Christmas Message for you. Hope you enjoy your Holiday!
Sevastra Photography

12 Days of Christmas Photo Style

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:51:00 GMT

On the twelfth day of Christmas, my True Love gave to me
twelve photo tips
eleven hours of photoshop lessons,
ten... iphoto aaaaapps
nine free textures
eight lens cleaning cloths
seven magazine subscriptions,
six... online web ordersss...
five boxes of print paper…
four Photoshop World tickets
three Kelby online books,
two Canon lens…
and a assistant to edit my images!!

Like a Leaf in the Wind

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 10:50:00 GMT

Photography.
Whats your specialty? Your area of interest? Your Style? Is it landscape, candid, aerial, cars, sunsets, sunrises, long exposures, sports, HDR, action shots, abstract or a million other styles?

For me, I find that to be a very difficult question to answer. I love all of the above. It really depends on the mood I'm in that particular day. Some say it's important to stay with a single style. You should strive to make your name synonymous with your style. When an individual sees your images they can easily see that it's one of yours. You must admit there is no mistaking a Monet or an Ansel Adams.

So what do you think?

Do you stick to a particular style? Is it because you feel like you have to or is it because you want to?

Scenic Maine Lighthouse Calendar SevastrA : Beautiful Images of New England

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 17:53:00 GMT

Scenic Maine Lighthouse Calendar SevastrA : Beautiful Images of New England

New Calendar available to order for 2012!!!

Did I Miss Something?

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 18:33:00 GMT

Yeah I think I did! I missed the fall foliage season!
I had to wonder...
...was it because I was working a lot?
...was it because I had misjudged the season time frame?

Hummm looking at the trees in Maine it almost looks like they are burnt. Most have dry dark leaves. I think even the weatherman is confused. Each week he gives his foliage report and continues to make it sound like life is bursting with red, oranges (my personal fav)and yellow. So far, all I have been able to find is some greeny looking yellow which I have affectionately renamed grellow.

I have spent hours, even days looking for the foliage. I drove to Portland, Cape Elizabeth, Mexico, Bath, Boothbay, Damarscotta, Rumford, Newport, Naples, Newry, Bethel, Mechanic Falls, Norway, So Paris and who knows where else. It all seems to look the same. Then...
Came to rain! Crap now it's washing away the grellow!! No!!

That's it I'm on a mission to figure this out. If I can understand what causes the color change maybe, just maybe I can figure out what causes the lack of color. Then if I'm really good I may be able to figure out where it is hiding.

In easy terms the colors of fall are an effect of a tree's growth factory shutting down for the winter. Winter is a bad time for growing: too little water, too little sun, and too much cold. Because of this trees stop producing chlorophyll,and begin to store sugars that they can use for antifreeze protection.

To begin the sealing-off process, the tree grows a membrane between each branch and leaf stem. The membrane hinders the flow of nutrients into the leaf which stops the leaf from making new chlorophyll. The old chlorophyll quickly decomposes and the leaf's green color fades.

If the leaf contains carotene, like in a birch tree, aspens, and cottonwoods for example, the fading leaf will change from green to yellow. Carotene, takes over and persists in leaves even after all the chlorophyll is gone. The leaves of those trees now look yellow.

The sealing membrane not only stops the inward nutrient flow but also blocks the outward flow of sugar, trapping it in the leaf. The blocked leaf sugar in some trees, like maples, oaks and sumacs reacts to form a red pigment, called anthocyanins. The brighter the summer the more vivid the red.

Lets not forget that the rainfall experienced during the summer determines how healthy the tree will be during the growing season which will affect the vibrant color it will produce.

So to sum up, we need a balance and healthy amount of sun and moisture during a trees growing season, warm days in early fall with cool crisp nights. Cool but not a freeze. Now if I remember correctly we had a dry July. I'm not even sure if it rained all month. That could be a major contributor. An early frost can cause leaves to fall before they even get a chance to change color.

Okay so let's look for an area with lot's of water, sun and offers somewhat of a shelter from wind and is in a confined space that can also help ward off frost by holding onto the warmth of the days sun.

Hummmm- How about a small cove? Maybe a sheltered waterfall off the mountains? BINGO!

My unofficial suggestion for anyone that is hoping to see some vibrant colors before the season is over is to look for small bodies of water that are sheltered from the wind. This can come in the form of a cove, maybe an area that has runoff from a mountainous zone.

Good luck in your search. I would love to see or hear how you make out in your own personal quest.
Check out my images at www.sevastra.com be sure to check out the Colors of Fall gallery.

The Beauty of Maine Lighthouses

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 13:25:00 GMT

Lighthouses have long been associated with mystique, romance and solitude. They are special places filled with dreams,hope, yearning of the heart and spirituality.

Maine Lighthouses are exceptionally beautiful. Nestled against the strong rocky coast. Keeping secrets of lost loves, found friends, childhood memories and young love.

Many people relate lighthouse viewing to summer, but that's not true. They are wonderful to visit anytime of the year. Take the time to look around you and plan a visit to your local lighthouse, I can guarantee you will have the time of your life!

To see additional lighthouse images on my website visit
http://www.sevastra.com/Landscapes/Lighthouses/9616164_BnbHqQ

The attached video is really long, I'll admit to that but the Maine Office of Tourism has done an exceptional job capturing their beauty. If you don't live in Maine, sit back and enjoy this exceptional video. Who knows you may even decide to visit this great state.

Light Spirit - Lighthouses of the Maine Coast from Maine Office of Tourism on Vimeo.

Maine Lighthouse Day

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 17:11:00 GMT

Saturday, September 17th, 2011 is Maine Lighthouse Day. Lighthouses that are rarely open will be open for the public to enjoy and climb to the top. Guides will be available to answer questions and share history about the lighthouse and their keepers.

If you have never been inside a lighthouse and have always wanted to see the lens close up this is the day to visit. 25 Lighthouses located throughout the State of Maine will open their doors for all to experience.

• Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse -- Bass Harbor on Mount Desert Island (land-based)
• Browns Head Lighthouse -- Vinalhaven Island (offshore)
• Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse -- Swan's Island (offshore)
• Burnt Island Lighthouse -- Entrance to Boothbay Harbor (offshore)
• Curtis Island Lighthouse -- Entrance to Camden Harbor (offshore)
• Deer Island Thorofare Lighthouse -- Mark Island near Stonington (offshore)
• Doubling Point Lighthouse -- Arrowsic (land-based)
• Dyce Head Lighthouse -- Castine (land-based)
• Fort Point Lighthouse -- Cape Jellison near Stockton Springs (land-based)
• Grindle Point Lighthouse -- Islesboro (offshore)
• Kennebec River Range Lights (two towers) -- Arrowsic (land-based)
• Little River Lighthouse -- Entrance to Cutler Harbor (offshore), noon to 3 p.m.
• Marshall Point Lighthouse -- Port Clyde (land-based)
• Monhegan Island Lighthouse -- Monhegan Island (offshore), 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Owls Head Lighthouse -- Owls Head (land-based)
• Pemaquid Point Lighthouse -- Bristol (land-based)
• Portland Breakwater Lighthouse (Bug Light) -- South Portland (land-based)
• Portland Head Lighthouse -- Cape Elizabeth (land-based)
• Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse -- Rockland (land-based via a breakwater)
• Seguin Island Lighthouse -- Near entrance to Kennebec River off Popham Beach (offshore), 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Spring Point Lighthouse -- South Portland (land-based via a breakwater)
• Squirrel Point Lighthouse -- Arrowsic (land-based)
• West Quoddy Head Lighthouse -- Lubec (land-based)
• Wood Island Lighthouse -- Biddeford Pool (offshore)
Source: lighthouseday.comhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

Which one would you visit? Owls Head ~known as the most haunted? Portland Head Light where it’s told the basement is haunted by passengers that passed away during the ship wreck that took place outside the lighthouse in On Christmas Eve, 1886. Marshall Light used in the movie Forrest Gump? Maybe Sequin Light where is is reported that a lighthouse keeper was driven mad by his wife repeatedly playing the same sheet of music over and over, driving him to murder and suicide.

To view some images visit

Canyon Livin

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 09:30:00 GMT

Panning for Gold is not the only recreation to be found in Byron, Maine.
Coo's Canyon in Byron, Maine is a great family fun place to explore for all ages.

As a young girl my grandmother brought me there and taught me how to pan for gold using old metal pie pans. That was over 30 years ago. Today people still enjoy panning for gold on the Swift River. If your not all that familiar with how and where...Just stop at the Coo's Canyon Gift Shop across from the Canyon they offer free lessons, supplies and great advise on where to look for treasures.

Not into panning for gold? That's okay the Canyon is wonderful for swimming and many areas are perfect water wading. On hot days the water is like a warm bath. Relax and let the water drift over you massaging your tired body.

Kids love playing in the water. Hours pass like minutes while they hunt for rocks or spend the afternoon catching minnows. Today we did both, hauling back tons of rocks to make balancing rock lamps and found out that T-shirts make super minnow catchers.

If all else fails, enjoy the beautiful waterfalls. Coo's Canyon is a little piece of Heaven located on Rt 17 in Byron, Maine. Relax and enjoy. For more views of Coo's Canyon visit my website gallery.

CLICK IMAGE BELOW FOR VIDEO

Let your Colors Burst ~I see a spark in YOU

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 16:42:00 GMT

A few weeks ago we went shopping and saw the most amazing paintings. After much consideration we decided to order some canvas and paint our own.

Tim had the bright idea that before we attempt to create a painting 63x 36h we should each buy a practice canvas 11x14 and attempt our hand at creating what we had imagined to be a master piece riddled with sand, sea glass and shells. Weeks passed as the canvas sat in the closet.

The Fourth of July seemed quiet. We decided to spend the afternoon relaxing in the gazebo painting our practice masterpiece. The anticipation was exciting. We gathered all our materials. Acrylic paint~check, water & small cups to rinse our brushes~check, canvas~check, small pieces of sea glass~check

We quickly realized we have no talent. After the first try we both did a cover-up and started again.

The moral of this story? We both come from an era where the sky was the limit. Our parents reinforced this by telling us how great we are/were at everything we attempted to accomplished. How bold we were to not even consider that we did not have the creative talent to pull this off.

Our second attempt is pictured here. What a downer it is to hit that brick wall, have the cold ice water bucket dumped over our heads waking us to reality.

We did decide the pictures of our paintings looks great so that means we ARE photographers not painters. Will this stop us? Sadly it won't. We will live another day to paint again.

Beware Jamie Wyeth we are hot on your trail. Not because we think we are great but because our parents do!

PS: I made Tim promise that after I pass away and become famous and they discover my very first painting, hiding just below my Balancing Rocks, let everyone know that my original was named, All About ME.

State of Maine Park Pass

Tue, 31 May 2011 20:15:00 GMT

What a great value purchasing a State of Maine Park Pass is for a family. Each year I am very careful to check the park pass option on my state taxes. For $70.00 I can visit any State of Maine State Park or Historic site free of charge in the upcoming year.

By purchasing the family pass that means anyone in my car gets in free of charge to locations such as Fort Knox in Penobscot near the Narrows Bridge, Range Pond in Poland or even Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth.

By the family car load reminds me of back in the days when you overloaded your car for the drive-in. Go for it! Live a little, load up your car and see Maine.

My State Park Pass ( say that three times fast) makes it easy for me to enjoy Maine...The Way Life should be.

What has happened to craftmanship and pride?

Tue, 03 May 2011 14:33:00 GMT

One thing I do know is that it is alive and well in Riverside at the Looff Carousel!
Tim and I ventured to East Providence to see what was left of my old stomping grounds. Beside a ton of graffiti which I will show you in a later blog, we found a jewel untouched and as beautiful as it was over 30 years ago. The carousel is housed in one of Looff's classic "hippodrome" buildings.

Charles I.D. Looff was a master carver. The carousel was built in 1895 and used as Looff’s showroom. Customers would come from all over the country to view and select the horses they wanted for their rides.

I was surprised to see that kids of all ages still reached their arm out to grab the brass ring. As I heard brass fog bell ring, I knew the ride was about to begin. A small hourglass affixed to the snare drum cabinet of the band organ is what would determine the length of my ride.
Today it is one of the only carousels in America where riders can play the ring game by grabbing a brass ring to earn a free ride. After catching the rings, riders throw them into the cut-out mouth of a clown face painted on a large canvas

The carousel was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987 and today remains "the State Jewel of American Folk Art” The carousel horses are as beautiful as I remember. If life leaves you feeling empty, take a ride, take a chance and reach your arm out and go for it, grab the brass ring of life, joy and laughter at Crescent Park, in Riverside, Rhode Island.
The restored ride continues to operate every summer.

Do You Dare...

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 12:32:00 GMT

Stay at the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast? Many believe that it is haunted by Lizzie's father & step mother to this day. The brutal murder took place in August 1892.

I had to check it out for myself so Tim and I along with Noah ventured down to the Lizzie B&B in Fall River, Massachusetts.

Now we were not brave enough to spend the night but were lucky enough to take part in their evening tour which was wonderful. The tour started at approximately 8:00 in Lizzie's parlor. The tour guide Mrs.Eleanor Thibault was very nice and informative. She made us feel welcome and told us of her many experiences as a tour guide and night manager.

We were lead to each of the eight bedrooms in this old victorian home. What a fun time we all had that evening. At the end of the evening tour for an additional $10.00 per person we had the opportunity to participate in a seance. Let the fun begin!

Needless to say there are many theories on why and how Mr. Borden and his wife were murdered. One being that he was just a little too close for comfort to Lizzie and she told her uncle about it and he hired someone to murder Lizzie's step-mother and then Lizzie's father.

So somewhat believing that theory myself I had to ask Mr. Borden during the seance if he enjoyed all of the women visiting the house and did he watch them in the shower and disrobing. According to the medium he refused to answer my question, but Mrs. Borden whispered "yes he does" at that moment I was happy we were sleeping elsewhere for the night.

If you get a chance be sure to visit this lovely home and if you can stay the night I would recommend it. I know I will be back to stay the night and further explore this beautiful home filled with intrigue and mystery.

My Father's House is Locked?

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:43:00 GMT

I just assumed that churches were open to the public 24/7. You have a problem with no where to turn? Stop by your local church, right? Sorry no one is home and the doors are all locked!

It really got me thinking about how many horror movies I have watched where the characters ran to their local church for safe cover. Can you imagine if they were being chased, ran to the church and the door was locked! I would end up prey to the Children of the Corn, the Tommy Knockers, Damien or Sweet Carrie. I just can't run as fast as I could when I was younger.

I guess with unemployment rising, business's closing, families losing their homes to foreclosure,and domestic violence increasing we just cannot trust each other anymore. The sad part is that's when people need that safe haven more than ever.

No discrimination here in Maine

Sun, 20 Mar 2011 07:10:00 GMT

We love all the seasons in Maine. Lucky for us by the time are backs start aching from the heavy snow shoveling Spring arrives to give us some much needed sunshine. It also gives us ladies a chance to shed our LL Bean boots for a while!
Check out this promotional video by The Maine Office of Tourism.

Check out my website at www.sevastra.com Here you will find photos of many of the locations in the video. Plus I could really use the traffic flow. The more clicks I get hopefully the cloud spiders will give me a break and boost me up the ranks for free. Yeah right!