Photographing Hummingbirds in Colombia: A Colourful Adventure

Few birds capture the imagination of photographers quite like hummingbirds. With their iridescent plumage, dazzling speed, and delicate size, they are among the most spectacular subjects in bird photography. Colombia, home to more than 160 species of hummingbirds—the highest diversity in the world—is a paradise for those who dream of capturing these tiny jewels through the lens.

From the misty Andes to the lush lowlands, every region of Colombia offers unique opportunities to photograph hummingbirds in their natural habitats. This colourful adventure blends patience, technique, and creativity to achieve stunning results.

Why Colombia is the World’s Hummingbird Capital

• Unmatched Diversity: With nearly half of all hummingbird species occurring in Colombia, photographers can capture a dazzling variety in a single trip.
• Altitude Range: Species differ depending on elevation—from high páramos to tropical rainforests—allowing for endless photographic variety.
• Accessible Reserves: Eco-lodges and reserves often set up feeders that attract multiple species, making close-up photography easier.

Iconic Hummingbirds to Photograph

1. Sword-billed Hummingbird (Ensifera ensifera)

• Famous for its bill longer than its body.
• A must-photograph species found in Andean highlands.

1. Booted Racket-tail (Ocreatus underwoodii)

• Recognizable by its racket-shaped tail feathers and fluffy “boots.”
• A favorite among photographers for its elegance.

1. Shining Sunbeam (Aglaeactis cupripennis)

• Coppery glow makes it one of the most striking subjects in morning light.

1. White-necked Jacobin (Florisuga mellivora)

• Common in lowland forests, with bold blue and white plumage.

1. Long-tailed Sylph (Aglaiocercus kingii)

• A jewel of the cloud forests, with shimmering tail streamers.

Top Hummingbird Photography Destinations in Colombia

• Jardín Encantado, San Francisco (near Bogotá)
• Known as the “House of Hummingbirds.” Over 30 species visit its feeders.
• Reserva Rio Blanco (Manizales)
• Offers hummingbirds in natural forest settings, perfect for action shots.
• Los Nevados National Park
• High-altitude landscapes where species like the Bearded Helmetcrest can be found.
• Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary
• Cloud forest setting with great light conditions for photography.
• Minca (Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta)
• Caribbean foothills with a mix of lowland and montane hummingbird species.

Photography Tips for Hummingbirds

1. Freeze the Motion

• Use a fast shutter speed (1/2000s or higher) to capture wings in flight.

1. Play with Light

• Iridescent feathers shine best with angled natural light.
• Overcast skies can create even tones without harsh glare.

1. Use Feeders Wisely

• Many reserves provide feeders, but position yourself to capture natural-looking shots with perches or flowers nearby.

1. Background Matters

• A blurred green or floral background highlights the bird’s colors.
• Use a wide aperture (f/2.8–f/5.6) for creamy bokeh.

1. Consider Flash and Multi-light Setups

• High-speed flash systems help freeze wings and bring out detail.
• Natural light purists may prefer patience at flowers.

1. Be Patient

• Hummingbirds are fast and unpredictable. Anticipating their return to a perch or feeder is key.

Conservation and Ethics

While photographing hummingbirds, it’s important to respect both the birds and their habitats. Avoid disturbing nests, limit flash use in dark settings, and support eco-lodges and reserves that contribute to hummingbird conservation.

By capturing and sharing their beauty, photographers also play a role in raising awareness about the ecosystems that sustain them.



Conclusion

Photographing hummingbirds in Colombia is truly a colourful adventure. Each species is a living gem, dazzling with movement and light. Whether capturing the elongated bill of the Sword-billed Hummingbird, the playful elegance of the Booted Racket-tail, or the shimmering glow of the Shining Sunbeam, photographers are rewarded with some of the most vibrant images in the birding world.

For anyone passionate about bird photography, Colombia’s hummingbirds represent the perfect combination of challenge, beauty, and inspiration.