The Palm Tanager (Thraupis palmarum) is a common yet fascinating species found across the neotropics. Though often overlooked due to its muted coloration, it plays a crucial role in seed dispersal and insect control, helping to maintain the balance of its ecosystem. This particular image was taken in Restrepo, Meta, Colombia, a region where urban green spaces and natural landscapes blend, providing essential refuge for birds and other wildlife.
The tanager was perched on a fruiting branch, blending seamlessly into its surroundings. Its olive-green plumage harmonized with the soft greens and browns of the environment, while the diffused morning light filtering through the canopy highlighted the delicate textures of its feathers. The moisture on the ripening fruit added a sense of freshness to the composition, reinforcing the vibrancy of life in tropical forests.
This shot was taken using a Canon R5 with an RF 800mm f/11 lens and a 1.4x extender. Due to the extender, the maximum aperture became f/16, which was necessary to maintain sharpness throughout the frame while balancing light transmission. The image was captured at 1/125 second, f/16, and ISO 1600. The choice of ISO 1600 was crucial in this low-light environment, allowing for proper exposure without excessive noise while retaining fine details in the bird’s plumage. The slow shutter speed of 1/125 second was made possible by the advanced stabilization of the Canon R5, which helped counteract motion blur despite the long focal length.
Shooting in dynamic lighting conditions requires precise exposure control. The balance between depth of field, motion control, and image clarity was carefully adjusted to maintain the natural feel of the scene while keeping the subject well-defined. The Palm Tanager, though abundant, remains an essential part of its ecosystem, and capturing its presence in its natural environment highlights the importance of conservation efforts that support biodiversity.
©2023 Adam Rainoff Photographer
