The Maine I Love — Tricia Ladd

“I grew up in Bristol, Rhode Island, a block from the Herreshoff boatyard and the rocky coastline of Narragansett Bay. Bristol Harbor was the center of our lives, and we enjoyed spending time on an assortment of family boats, including an older brother’s classic Friendship sloop. Today I am blessed to live half the year on Islesboro, amidst the almost unimaginable beauty of northern Penobscot Bay—its fog-swept rocky coves, ever-shifting skies, and extraordinary sunrises and sunsets. As for the boats, including iconic lobsterboats, schooners, and the fleet of Dark Harbor 20s designed by Olin Stephens, I need only quote the master craftsman, R. D. Culler: “Boats, like whiskey, are all good.” I start each day with an early-morning photo adventure, accompanied by our two dogs. The terrier loves exploring the dock for crab remains while I work quietly in the quickly changing light. Photo opportunities continue throughout the day and into the night, whether they be sailboat races, a sudden summer squall, or a lavish sunset. Some days I’m fortunate to capture an image that makes my heart sing.”