The Green Honeycreeper (Chlorophanes spiza) is one of the most dazzling birds found in the tropical forests of Central and South America. I photographed this stunning species at La Minga Ecolodge, located in the lush Andean foothills near Cali, Colombia. Known for its vibrant turquoise plumage, contrasting black hood, and vivid yellow bill, this bird stands out as a true gem of the region’s biodiversity.
This fleeting moment unfolded in the soft glow of the afternoon light. The honeycreeper perched briefly on a moss-covered branch, providing the perfect opportunity to capture its intricate details and vivid colors. I used my Canon R5 camera with the RF 100-500mm lens set to its full 500mm focal length. The aperture was set to f/6.7, the widest setting at 500mm, allowing maximum light to enter the lens while creating a beautifully shallow depth of field that isolated the bird from its lush green surroundings.
I manually set the ISO to 800, balancing the need for quality in low-light conditions under the forest canopy. Program mode was used to allow the camera’s intelligent metering to select a shutter speed of 1/250, which ensured the bird’s rapid movements were frozen with sharp detail. This combination of settings preserved the honeycreeper’s vibrant colors and intricate feather details while maintaining a naturally lit and well-exposed composition.
La Minga Ecolodge offers an unparalleled experience for wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts. Its rich biodiversity and dedication to conservation make it a haven for discovering and documenting remarkable species like the Green Honeycreeper. Guides like Asherita Viajera bring an additional layer of depth to the experience, helping visitors uncover the beauty and importance of this vibrant ecosystem.
This photograph represents more than a single moment; it tells a story about the interconnectedness of life in the tropics and our role in preserving it. Through my photography, I aim to share these stories and inspire others to connect with and protect the natural world.
©2021 Adam Rainoff Photographer
