A Long-tailed Tyrant (Colonia colonus) perches atop a weathered stump at the forest edge of Capurganá, Chocó, Colombia. Early morning light filters through the rainforest canopy, illuminating the bird’s slate-gray plumage and ivory-crowned head. Its exceptionally long tail feathers stream gracefully behind, contrasting sharply against a softly blurred backdrop of tropical foliage. The scene conveys both the fragility and elegance of this species in its transitional habitat between dense forest and open clearing.
Technical precision was essential to render this portrait with clarity and depth. I shot handheld with a Canon EOS R5 and an 800 mm f/11 lens, choosing a shutter speed of 1/125 second to freeze the tyrant’s subtle movements. The aperture at f/11 provided sufficient depth of field to capture feather details while isolating the subject against creamy bokeh. ISO 3200 lifted shadow detail under the low canopy without introducing excessive noise. Controlled breathing and a sturdy stance beneath the verdant overhead cover ensured sharpness at this extended focal length.
The Long-tailed Tyrant relies on the delicate balance of edge habitats that are increasingly under threat from development and deforestation. My work at the intersection of conservation and fine art photography aims to showcase these hidden marvels and inspire responsible stewardship. By bringing images like this into homes and offices, I hope to foster both aesthetic appreciation and a deeper commitment to preserving the biodiversity of regions such as Capurganá.
©2023 Adam Rainoff Photographer
