Beyond the Vision

Exploring Sheffield Island Norwalk Connecticut

2011-07-30T05:23:00.000-07:00

Sheffield Island is a small island located just off the coast in Norwalk, CT. It is an approx. 3 hour tour (I'm not kidding!). The Ferry departs at 11:00 am at the Sheffield Island Dock adjacent to the Stroffolino Bridge and the corner of Washington & N. Water St.

The lighthouse was built in 1868 and retired in 1902.It is maintained by the Norwalk seaport association and is now a museum for visitors to experience a glimpse of history.

The island is definitely worth visiting for an afternoon excursion. The 45 minute ferry ride (with narrated tour guide) to the island is a scenic and fun adventure all on its own. Kids especially will enjoy the raising of Stroffolino Bridge as the ferry passes under. We enjoyed the fresh sea air and the general good spirits of passers by. The friendly smiles and waves as the ferry journeys out to sea invokes a general feeling of delightful seaward camaraderie.

In approaching the island, the view of the lighthouse is quite splendid. The old stone structure stands peacefully yet solidly in the center of the island, while surrounded by a medley of sea blues and greens. Even though it was thickly overcast on our visit, the hazy ambiance as we arrived was almost magical.

Exploration of the lighthouse and grounds is a treat. The lighthouse with its beautiful historic stone construction and gracefully curved windows with original shutters captures my attention. As always, I am drawn to interesting windows and the gentle light they cast upon the objects inside. The house itself is filled with an eclectic mix of museum-like items from all periods of time. Many of the items and furnishings are fascinating antiques with a unique story of their own to tell. On this particular trip the Lighthouse was filled with beautiful quilts from the Norwalk Quilt Trail.

Surrounding the lighthouse are public grounds which are well kept for tourists to enjoy. The beaches are filled with shells of all sorts, sea life, and large rocks. There is a covered picnic area and tables in and around which makes for a pleasant BYO picnic lunch.We brought a blanket and spread out on the lawn, which worked out well until the flies came. This particular day was extremely hot with temps soaring near 100 degrees, so perhaps this is why the flies and bugs were so plentiful. Regardless, I do suggest you bring a (safe and natural) bug repellent with you, just in case.

There is a very nice nature trail which goes through the Stewart B. McKinney Wildlife Refuge (see picture below). The sign states that you will hear a "symphony of sounds" and it true. A variety of birds, crickets, and sea sounds can be heard all along the trail. At the end, there is a boardwalk which leads up to a lookout. Even at a leisurely pace, the entire trail hike takes only about 15 minutes (to and from).

The ferry began its return to the mainland promptly at 1:15 which provided more than enough time to explore the island and lighthouse, and to enjoy our picnic lunch. A very pleasant way to spend an afternoon in Norwalk, CT.

The departure dock with the Sheffield Island Ferry (catamaran) ready for voyage to the lighthouse

An oyster fishing boat passes by the Ferry while on route to Sheffield Island

The Sheffield Island Lighthouse

Close up of the lighthouse tower

Stairs leading to the second floor of the lighthouse

Lighthouse display of an old lantern and photograph

Antique Sterling stove in the lighthouse kitchen

Antique canister which once held fresh catch oysters

An antique quilt (from the Norwalk Quilt Trail) is displayed in the bedroom on the second floor

Sewing basket display in the sewing room

The Sheffield Island dock

Notice the very large bird nest on top of the roof!

A great spot for an island picnic!

View looking out from the island

Sheffield Island wildlife

Another tranquil view

Nature Trail through the Stewart B. McKinney Wildlife Refuge - a symphony of nature "sounds"

Highlights from a hike in Connecticut

2011-07-18T05:55:00.000-07:00

It isn't too often I actually have the opportunity to hike in my own area. Parts of Connecticut are actually quite beautiful and perfect for a scenic day of hiking.

Mohawk State forest, located near Litchfield and Goshen, is the sixth oldest forest in the state. There is plenty of hiking here and a few great spots for sunning around Mohawk Pond. Although I didn't have the chance yesterday, the pond would be a great location for canoeing or kayaking.

View from the summit at Mohawk Forest State Park

Rock heart memorial tribute on the summit

Deep inside the forest is an area called Black Spruce Bog; one of the few historic bogs in Connecticut. It is an area filled with interesting and sometimes rare plant life which is the result of melted ice from 10,000 years ago. Interesting specimens such as Sheep Laurel, Leatherleaf, Sphagnum Moss, Sundew, and Pitcher plant are found here. Trees include: White Pine, Black Spruce, Eastern Hemlock, and Tamarack.

The Boardwalk to Black Spruce Bog

Interesting plant life in the Black Spruce Bog

Another nice place for an afternoon hike is Southford Falls State Park. A great scenic spot along Eight Mile Brook in Southbury, CT. Here you will find a babbling brook with waterfall, covered bridge, boardwalk, and peaceful hiking on a trail that loops around the park. The trail is a bit of a challenge though as it is sometimes steep and rocky, so be sure to bring good hiking shoes! Spend a lazy afternoon fishing off the bridge or gazing at the multitudes of wildlife that make home to the brook and marsh area. Even though the park is just off of RT.188, it is actually quite peaceful; often with sounds of horses in the distance as the Larkin Bridle Trail is nearby. Stop in for an afternoon, bring your dog, and a picnic lunch! View Park Map

Covered Bridge in Southford Falls State Park

The falls of Eight Mile Brook

Inside view from the covered bridge

Southford Falls State Park bridge. A great, lazy fishing spot

Could not resist the opportunity here........ have to admit, I had to look twice!

The pleasures of an afternoon tea

2011-07-11T10:40:00.000-07:00

Afternoon tea and treats!
Photo provided by the Blue Harbor House

Nothing is more inviting than the invitation to sit for a moment to linger a cup of afternoon tea with a sweet treat (or two!). It is more than just a chance to fill ones tummy with something delicious, it is a chance to experience a few captured moments of inner tranquility. The first hint of aroma draws you in. The first sip sweeps you to a place far away from a bustling world, and for a few brief moments "none of it matters".

This recipe for Scottish Lavender Shortbread has been graciously shared by Annette Hazzard of the Blue Harbor House, Camden Maine. Each afternoon, Annette offers guests complimentary tea accompanied by a baked treat such as the lovely lavender shortbread pictured right.

Scottish Lavender Shortbread
by Annette Hazzard - Blue Harbor House

Shortbread
8oz butter
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup cornflour(cornstarch)

Mix butter and sugar together until creamy. Gently mix in flour and

cornstarch until it all binds together. It should be a moist, not dry

mixture. Use cookie cutters to cut out circles.

Bake at 325 for 20-30 minutes

Lavender and rose glaze
2tbsp crushed culinary lavender.
1 tbsp rosewater
Powdered sugar to make a thick paste.
Mix all together. Smooth on top of cooled shortbread.

A Visit to Camden, Maine and the Blue Harbor House B&B

2011-07-08T10:20:00.000-07:00

The Blue Harbor House Camden, ME

One of the most pleasant perks of photographing B&B's is the adventure of experiencing new places! Each destination has its own charm and mystery awaiting exploration. Camden, Maine is now placed in my top ten places to visit in New England. One of the most captivating towns I have visited since my journey as inn photographer. It is a quaint yet bustling coastal village just two hours north of Portland. Settled next to the scenic harbor, it resides peacefully at the foot of majestic (and widely photographed) Mt. Battie. No photographer could possibly visit here and not be swept away by its beauty.

The Blue Harbor House, with its signature sea blue exterior, proudly graces historical Elm Street in the heart of Camden. This darling eleven room B&B, now owned and operated by Terry and Annette Hazzard, has been welcoming visitors for nearly 30 years. In arriving at the Inn, there is a genuine warmth and feeling of "home" the moment you walk through the door. An absolute delight for the weary traveler drawn in for a lingering stay. Perhaps it is because of the casual yet elegant atmosphere with furnishings of soft country cottage decor. Perhaps it is the especially warm greeting by Annette and Terry. Perhaps it is the irresistible aroma of just baked cookies and freshly brewed Scottish tea that fills the air. Or perhaps it is simply a little bit of "everything". Simple touches that touch the heart. No matter what the reason for its appeal, the Blue Harbor House is undoubtedly a special place. A gently relaxing, hospitable retreat not to be missed during your stay in Camden.

In showcasing this Inn pictorially, it was clear that the images needed to highlight its natural warmth and antique charm, yet also display the modern updates of convenience. In keeping with this thought, the photos were carefully planned as a reflection. The the key was to keep it simple while using lots of natural light which is shown in the beautiful results. The Camden area and fabulous cuisine at the Inn were also a feature in this photo shoot. When elegantly placed together on the new simple design website , the story tells all.....what a welcoming invitation!

A graceful throw blanket with book invites the guest to curl up and relax

Casually tossed pillows and a shiny silver tray with tea and cakes captures the charm of Blue Harbor House

Simple composition with soft natural light

The Sea Glass guestroom photo captures country cottage warmth

A great opportunity to display cute logo mugs in the background

Cocktail Hour on the porch

Rise and shine breakfast in the sunny dining room

The sailboat filled harbor

Quaint shops lined with bright colored flower boxes are everywhere!

A sunny Camden morning complete with hot coffee and the local newspaper

A view of Camden Harbor from Mt. Battie

What is your favorite New England town, and why?

2011-07-05T06:45:00.000-07:00

Nubble Lighthouse- York, Maine

I am humbled for the opportunity to visit some of the most charming towns here in New England. I have met many, many wonderful innkeepers; who are now good friends. The scenery is breathtaking; the waters and coast are consuming and tranquil. A few of my favorite places are: Newburyport Ma, the Berkshires and Stockbridge Ma, Stowe Vermont, and York & Camden Maine.

New England will always be "home" to me......... and as I begin a new adventure in providing a video service to the B&B industry, I am anxious to hear your response to my question above. Perhaps I can visit your favorite place one day soon :)

Use Natural Light!

2011-06-27T05:42:00.000-07:00

When possible, use a tripod, long exposures, and natural light to softly illuminate your guest room.
The difference adds a depth of luster and "romance" that is rarely duplicated when using flash (of any kind).

Romantic French Toile guestroom shot with natural light plus one nightstand lamp. F10 / 1/20 second / ISO 200

For ease, simply use your cameras built-in light meter to determine the length of exposure. Bracket if desired.