Next decision was WHEN to go.  This decision was partly made for me based on my work schedule.  It would have to be September or mid-October.  I was really hoping to be there during the peak fall color season, so, again I did some research on MaineFoilage.com and determined October would be my best bet for fall color.  Due to my work schedule, we chose the week of October 11-18.   Keep in mind, I booked the trip in June, and starting in September, I'd check the foliage reports weekly, anticipating what I might see the week of October 11th.  I knew I was gambling with nature and may miss the peak by one week.  It's silly, I know.  It's not like I could change my travel plans or control Mother Nature.  I guess I was just trying to prepare myself.   Good news!  Our trip was timed perfect.  It WAS the peak week, and the locals say it was the most beautiful display of fall colors they've seen in years.  

By the way, I checked the weather too, thinking it would be pretty chilly that time of year.  Turned out it was beautiful weather, near 70 everyday, in fact warmer than at home in Missouri.  Just another tip, my favorite weather app is Accuweather.  It gives you a detailed forecast by the minute.

From the moment I could see the ground from my airplane window, I knew I was in for a real treat.  The colors were so vibrant.  I was just in awe.  Mind you, Missouri is beautiful in the fall, but Missouri's colors pale in comparison to the bright reds, yellows and oranges of Maine. 

Mount Desert Island SunsetFirst sunset in Maine Enough about the fall colors, I was there to capture some sunrises and sunsets too.  As we drove into Mount Desert Island, the sun was just starting to set.  I asked my husband to turn down one of the roads heading to the west, just hoping it would take us to the water where I can capture the sunset.  We got lucky.  This was probably the prettiest sunset of the week.  

Then, the next morning, much to my surprise, I watched the sunrise from the backyard of Safe Harbor, the little cottage we rented in Southwest Harbor.  My favorite sunrises were seen in my pajamas with a warm cup of coffee.     Southwest Harbor SunriseSunrise our last day in Maine

Speaking of sunrises and sunsets, I have to tell you, I purchased a new app, The Photographer's Ephemeris for my iPhone that helped me scout out the best locations.  It tells you where the sun rises and sets, and the moon too.  As well as giving you the exact time of day.  Another valuable resource that helped me find the best places to photograph was "Photographing Acadia National Park, the When, Where and How"  I downloaded the e-book, but honestly, would suggest you buy the book as it is easier to thumb through it.