I Can See for Miles and Miles

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Halifax, Nova Scotia; May 24, 2026

A kaleidoscope of colors and light filters through curved, transparent panels, creating a mesmerizing pattern. The panels are arranged in a radial symmetry, converging towards a central point. The light appears to be artificial, with hues of blue, red, yellow, and green blending seamlessly. The overall effect is abstract and dynamic, evoking a sense of movement and energy. The structure seems to be enclosed, possibly part of an art installation or architectural feature. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth and complexity to the scene, making it visually captivating and intriguing. — A wide and close view of a first order Fresnel lens recovered from the Sambro Island Lighthouse and displayed at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax, Nova Scotia. — J. Matthew Buchanan

¶Ever seen a 120-year-old giant lens up close? I have, at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

¶This is a close-up of the Fresnel lens that once guided ships from Sambro Island Lighthouse — the oldest lighthouse in North America. The lens was made in Paris in 1906, nearly scrapped in 1966, and is now on display at the museum.

Technical Notes

¶This is an iPhone shot, taken with the camera in Lightroom Mobile, and processed in Lightroom classic. That is my typical mobile workflow.

Metadata

Published: May 28, 2026
Camera Make: Apple
Camera: iPhone 15 Pro Max
Lens: iPhone 15 Pro Max back camera 6.765mm f/1.78
Focal Length: 6.8mm
Aperture: f/1.8
Shutter Speed: 1/60s
ISO: ISO 640
Captured: May 24, 2026, 10:36 AM
Exposure Program: Program AE
Metering Mode: Multi-segment
Flash: Off, Did not fire
White Balance: Auto
Creator: J. Matthew Buchanan
Keywords: glass, lens, lighthouse, metal, museum
Sublocation: Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
City: Halifax
State: Nova Scotia
Country: Canada
Rights Usage Terms: All use of this image requires a license from the copyright holder.
Copyright URL: Web Statement of Rights