The Female Multicolored Tanager, scientifically known as Chlorochrysa nitidissima, is a rare and vibrant species endemic to Colombia. I had the privilege of photographing this beautiful bird at La Minga Ecolodge, located near Cali, Colombia. The Andean cloud forests, where this tanager thrives, provide an ideal setting for capturing the biodiversity of this unique ecosystem.
In the photograph, the female tanager is perched delicately on a slender branch, her emerald-green plumage glowing against the lush greenery. The golden-yellow tones of her face and the soft blue hues along her underparts stand out vividly in the natural light. The soft, diffused light filtering through the dense forest canopy added depth and brought out intricate feather details, enhancing the image’s overall vibrancy.
To achieve this shot, I used the Canon R5 paired with the RF 100-500mm lens at its full focal length of 500mm. The camera was set to a shutter speed of 1/500 second, allowing me to freeze the subtle movements of the bird while keeping her sharp and defined. The ISO was set to 800, balancing the low light of the forest with the need to preserve vibrant colors and minimize noise. This combination of settings highlighted the beauty of the tanager while maintaining the serene ambiance of the forest.
The experience was enriched by working with Asherita Viajera, a knowledgeable birding guide whose expertise was invaluable in locating and observing this elusive bird. Her deep understanding of the region’s avifauna added meaning to the photograph, emphasizing the importance of conserving habitats like these.
This image not only reflects the elegance of the Multicolored Tanager but also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of life in the Andean cloud forests. Moments like these highlight the vital role of ecotourism and conservation in preserving these fragile ecosystems for future generations.
©2021 Adam Rainoff Photographer
