The Andean Motmot is a bird that commands attention, not just for its striking plumage but for its unmistakable presence in the cloud forests of the Central Andes. Capturing this image in Roncesvalles, Tolima, was an experience shaped by patience, the right conditions, and the technical precision required to bring out the finest details in a low-light environment.
The deep red eye of the motmot was my focal point. In the dim morning light, I needed a fast shutter speed to ensure sharpness while still maintaining enough sensitivity to capture the rich blues, greens, and earthy tones of its feathers. I set the camera to 1/1000 second at ISO 2000, allowing me to freeze any subtle movement while keeping noise levels manageable. Shooting at 800mm without an extender gave me the reach necessary to frame the subject tightly without disturbing its natural behavior.
The background plays a crucial role in this composition. A soft, defocused green backdrop isolates the bird, emphasizing the intricate color transitions across its head and body. The Andean Motmot’s blue crown, contrasting against the dark mask around its face, stands out with remarkable clarity. The fine details of its feathers, from the iridescent tones to the texture of its throat, are visible thanks to the precision of the Canon R5 and RF 800mm lens.
Photographing wildlife in Roncesvalles is always a challenge due to shifting weather conditions and dense vegetation, but the reward is capturing species like this in their natural habitat. This motmot, perched calmly in the forest, provided a rare moment of connection—a reminder of why these ecosystems are worth preserving.
©2024 Adam Rainoff Photographer
