This photograph was created at La Minga Ecolodge near Cali in Valle del Cauca, Colombia, using the Canon EOS R5 and the RF800mm F11 IS STM lens. In the image, an Orange-bellied Euphonia, Euphonia xanthogaster, is perched on a narrow branch in soft morning light. Its deep violet-blue upperparts, bright yellow crown and warm orange belly stand out clearly against the smooth green background of the forest. The posture is forward and alert, allowing the feather texture and color transitions to appear naturally defined without distraction.
For this scene, I used a shutter speed of 1/500 second at f/11. The fixed aperture of the RF800mm lens paired with the changing light of the Andean foothills required a careful balance to maintain sharpness while preserving the subtle atmosphere of the setting. The long focal length provided strong subject isolation, helping the euphonia stand out cleanly against the distant foliage. I positioned myself to take advantage of even illumination, avoiding the dappled light that often breaks across subjects in forest environments. The result is a consistent rendering of color and texture that highlights the bird’s distinctive palette.
Capturing this species is often challenging due to its quick movements and preference for midlevel branches. In this case, patience allowed the moment to come together when the bird paused in clear light. My intention with this photograph was to emphasize both the elegance of the Orange-bellied Euphonia and the natural calm that defines the surrounding habitat.
©2025 Adam Rainoff Photographer 
