During my visit to the mountainous region of Roncesvalles in Tolima, Colombia, I had the opportunity to photograph the Crimson-mantled Woodpecker (Colaptes rivolii). This striking bird, known for its vivid crimson plumage and unique markings, was perfectly nestled in its natural habitat among the towering trees and dense foliage. Roncesvalles, located in the western Andes, is renowned for its vibrant biodiversity, making it a prime location for capturing wildlife through the lens.
The technical challenge in photographing this species came from the dense forest conditions, where light was limited, and the bird’s movements were swift. To capture the fine details without losing sharpness, I used my Canon R5 camera paired with an RF 800mm f/11 lens and a 1.4x extender, bringing the focal length to 1120mm. Given the low light in the dense canopy, I chose ISO 3200, which allowed me to maintain image quality without introducing excessive noise. The R5’s in-body image stabilization system was invaluable for this shot, allowing me to handhold the camera at an exceptionally slow shutter speed of 1/45 second. This slow shutter speed was essential in maintaining clarity despite the low light conditions, as it allowed enough light to enter without the motion blur typically caused by slower speeds.
The environment around me was alive with the sounds of the forest, and capturing the Crimson-mantled Woodpecker was a rewarding moment in my journey as a photographer. This shot represents not just a rare moment in nature but also the importance of preserving these ecosystems, where such unique species continue to thrive.
©2024 Adam Rainoff Photographer
