During an urban photo walk in Restrepo, in the Department of Meta in Colombia, I photographed a Gray Seedeater (Sporophila intermedia). This small passerine is often considered common across the lowlands of South America, yet in this setting it became the focus of a simple but striking composition.
The bird perched on a weathered wire, its plumage catching the light in soft gradations. The crown is shaded in charcoal, blending into silvery-gray flanks with subtle brown edging along the wings. A short peach-colored bill stands out in contrast to the slate tones, while a clear, dark eye gives the bird an expression of calm. Behind the subject, the background dissolves into a wash of green bokeh, reducing distractions and creating a clean stage that emphasizes both color and form.
This photograph was made with a Canon EOS R5 paired with an RF 800mm lens and a 1.4x extender. My settings were 1/180 sec, f/16, and ISO 1600. The long focal length allowed me to work at a comfortable distance without disturbing the bird, while the aperture setting provided enough depth to keep the bird sharp while still isolating it from the background. The choice of ISO 1600 was necessary to maintain detail and exposure in the low light of the morning. A single autofocus point was locked onto the eye, ensuring the critical sharpness that defines the image.
Wind was the primary challenge during this session. Feathers moved restlessly in the breeze, and I waited for still intervals before triggering the shutter. Timing was essential to maintain detail and preserve a natural posture. The final frame represents patience as much as technical control, demonstrating how quiet observation leads to meaningful results.
For me, this image goes beyond documenting a species. It is about noticing the beauty in an everyday moment, where line, texture, and tone combine to create something lasting.
©2025 Adam Rainoff Photographer
