flying

This picture was shot near dusk, when hummingbirds attempt to feed for the last time before dark. I have always considered these creatures as one of the most difficult animals to photograph due to their quick, restless movements making each shot a challenge. It took me around two and half hours to get the hummingbirds used to my presence, understand their behavior, and attempt to predict their movements. After many trails, I emerged from the forest with the shot of the day.

The Monteverde Reserve is a research facility located in the cloud forest of Costa Rica. The Reserve is well known for its conservation efforts of the local community and preservation the unique cloud forest that is home to many endemic species of flora and fauna. This photograph is one of my favorites due to the vivid color of the hummingbird. The body of the bird is in focus, enabling you to see the details in the legs and feathers. The color of the hummingbird also contrasts nicely with the background. I took the picture with a Canon 300D, EF 90-300 mm 4.5-5.6 USM lens, f-6.3, 1-200, ISO 200, Speedlite 580EX II Flash.
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