Bug Head Lighthouse Fine Art Photography Print - Long Exposure Seascape from Portland, Maine - Nautical Decor for Home

How does a lighthouse so small hold a history as vast as the ocean it overlooks?

The Bug Light, or Portland Breakwater Lighthouse, stood like a sentinel, small but steadfast, against the gentle waves of Portland Harbor. Its whitewashed walls gleamed under the midday sun, and the copper dome reflected light like a beacon even when not in use. The harbor was quiet yet alive—a blend of seagulls’ cries, the distant hum of a fishing boat, and the soft lap of water against the rocks. The smell of salt and seaweed hung in the air, grounding me in the moment.

Built in 1855, this tiny lighthouse had been a guide for ships navigating the bustling harbor of the “Forest City.” Portland, known for its maritime history, had earned its nicknames and slogans—“Where the Mountains Meet the Sea” and “Gateway to the North.” As I prepared for the long-exposure shot, I couldn’t help but marvel at how this petite structure had witnessed decades of change.

Long-exposure photography in broad daylight isn’t easy. I used a neutral density filter to tame the harsh sunlight and extend the shutter speed. The water transformed into a smooth, glassy surface, reflecting the lighthouse like a dream. A fallen log in the foreground added depth, a silent witness to the endless rhythm of the tides.

The setup required patience. Waves rippled unpredictably, and the shifting clouds cast fleeting shadows over the scene. Each adjustment of my camera’s settings felt like a dance with nature, striving for balance. But when the shutter finally clicked, I knew I had captured the Bug Light in all its serene, enduring beauty.

Standing there, surrounded by the echoes of Portland’s seafaring past, I felt deeply connected to this timeless landscape. This wasn’t just a photograph; it was a piece of Maine’s story, frozen in time.

1) Since we create each piece of our custom fine art specifically for you, we don't offer returns. Every image is made-to-order, making it unique and personal. But we want you to love your artwork! If it arrives damaged or there's a problem with it, we'll gladly exchange it or send you a replacement to make things right.

2) The artist's signature on each piece of our fine art, placed in the bottom corner, authenticates the work as a unique creation and adds a personal touch.

3.1) Only framed paper prints, acrylics and aluminum/metal prints will have a 2" white mat border.
3.2) Canvas prints will be a flush mounted (no mat border) to the frame.