Shell’s Event Planning

02/09/2025

Living in paradise isn’t so bad 🤍

01/25/2025

If you’re seeking a corky wedding venue, we’ve coordinated a wedding here in the past and it was so much fun! ♟️

01/25/2025

Amber Cove, D.R. — December 2024 💙

01/18/2025

Takes a village. 🫶🏼

01/18/2025

https://www.thehotline.org 🪽

Support Kristin’s Law: Demand Mandatory Monitoring for Domestic Violence Offenders

01/17/2025

The Speckled Hummingbird (Adelomyia melanogenys) is one of the most captivating species I’ve had the privilege to photograph. Native to the Andean cloud forests, this tiny bird thrives in the lush, high-altitude environment of its habitat. I captured this image at La Minga Ecolodge near Cali, Colombia, a breathtaking destination that combines biodiversity with conservation and ecotourism.

This particular shot captures the hummingbird mid-flight, delicately feeding on a magenta flower. Its speckled throat and muted green plumage shimmer softly in the diffused light filtering through the dense canopy. To achieve this, I used my Canon R5 paired with the RF 100-500mm lens at its full focal length of 500mm. With a shutter speed of 1/750 second, I was able to freeze the bird’s body while retaining subtle motion in its wings, highlighting both the bird’s energy and grace. The ISO was set at 800 to balance the low-light conditions of the cloud forest, maintaining sharpness while preserving the natural tones and vibrancy of the scene.

Positioning was crucial for this shot. I had to align myself with the flower and ensure the background remained softly blurred to keep the bird as the central focus. Using the wide range of the RF 100-500mm lens allowed me to keep a respectful distance while capturing intimate details of the hummingbird’s feathers. The subtle iridescence in its plumage came to life thanks to the soft forest light, which enhanced the natural textures and colors of the bird.

La Minga Ecolodge is not just a photographer’s paradise—it’s a sanctuary for anyone who loves nature. Guided by Asherita Viajera, an exceptional Colombian birding expert, I learned about the behavior of these hummingbirds and their vital role in pollinating the flora of the Andean forests. This experience reminded me of how interconnected these ecosystems are and how vital it is to protect them.

Photography is about more than just capturing a beautiful image; it’s about telling a story. This image of the Speckled Hummingbird reflects the delicate balance of its habitat and the incredible moments we can witness when patience, technique, and passion come together.

©2021 Adam Rainoff Photographer

Canon THINK TANK PHOTO Cotton Carrier Camera Systems Asherita Viajera La Minga Ecolodge Expresiones de Ecoturismo del Valle del Cauca

01/10/2025

Your memory will never fade.
You’ll always shine so bright.
Helping others with their dreams and carrying your legacy to new heights. — S.H. 🙏🩷


Mimosas and Moonshine
Makeup by Carissa
Fifth Ave Bridal

01/08/2025

Just don’t take the thin mints! 💚🙏

It’s officially the beginning of Girl Scout cookie season, but it’s the end for two flavors.

01/01/2025

Happy New Year! 🤍🍾💫

12/31/2024

Happy New Year’s Eve 🥂🍾 🎆

12/23/2024

She’s amazing Kelly Moore 🤍

Romantic and Rustic Wedding Cake 🍰

Booking 2025 Weddings, Birthdays, Baby Showers and More!

12/23/2024

Merry Christmas from the sea last week ❤️🙏💚

12/20/2024

Happy Holidays 🤍🎄