Described is the development of 8-azacoumarin-4-ylmethyl groups as aqueous photolabile protecting groups. A key feature of the strategy is the isosteric replacement of the C7鈥揅8 enol double bond of the Bhc derivative with an amide bond, resulting in conversion of the chromophore from coumarin to 8-azacoumarin. This strategy makes dramatically enhanced water solubility and facile photocleavage possible.