Bridges, originally uploaded by Philip Case Cohen.

I’m always one for getting up early to catch the sunrise – and I’m usually happier with the fruits of my labor.  This particular morning, the sun and sky decided they didn’t want to put on much of a show, so it’s a lovely muted scene of the iconic Maine lighthouse.  When we first arrived, it was cloudy and the sun was on its way up – so I figured we’d have a stunning show of color in the sky, but it was not meant to be.  I’m pleased despite this, and happy I got to enjoy a part of the day I usually waste.  Starting the day by watching a lighthouse and first light creep over the horizon is a good idea any day.

The North End of Portsmouth was once filled with residential homes.  That once upon a time was a long time ago – and in the place of the once bustling neighborhood – a new development has taken shape.  Portwalk Place is well underway, with its first two phases complete.  This sunrise was taken from the rooftop of the Residences at Portwalk building, looking back towards Market Square.  The cloud formation rolling in past the North Church was amazing and a nice treat on an early morning.

A portrait of Portsmouth’s waterfront at first light from Peirce Island.  There’s something about starting your day with the first orange rays of light. The layers of clouds added enough interest to the scene to make this a keeper.

I love running around right after sunrise when the sun’s first blazing rays are hitting things just over the horizon. As the South End was drenched in the day’s first light – I can attest to the fact that it was every bit as peaceful as it looks.

One of my favorite parts of my photographic adventures are the people I get to meet, and the places I get to shoot.  I am very thankful to have had the opportunity to shoot sunrise from the roof of the new Residences at Portwalk project that has been in the news so much lately.  The roof of the building in the heart of the Northern Tier is uniquely positioned above Hanover Street and the city’s parking garage, with a nice clear view towards Bow Street and the Memorial Bridge.

I was greeted by a soft orange glow in the sky, about 15 minutes before the sun made it over the horizon and the rooflines. The early day light was all that was needed to give a hint of detail in the Bow Street buildings and the power lines, with the cranes of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard visible in the background. A beautiful morning and a memorable view.