I was in Ecuador just over 2 weeks ago and had a fantastic time. My time was spent in the Choco area of the Northwest. The bird life in this area is incredibly diverse as is the flora and fauna. This area gets plenty of rain and you will see evidence of this in many of my images.
Here are some of the still images I took on this trip. My main goal for this trip was to learn video. Until this trip, I really hadn't tried video as I was overwhelmed by the thought of learning video processing. I took plenty of video and have been slowing learning the basics of processing. I have added some videos to my Instagram page and will continue to add as time permits to learn and process.
My 2nd goal was to capture images and video of the Club-winged Manakin. It is such an interesting bird that is challenging to find and photograph. It can be found in the dense/lush cloud forest in western Ecuador and Colombia. Males form areas called leks where they dance around displaying to get the attention of females. It makes musical sounds by raising its wings and shaking them back and forth. My goal was accomplished and I look forward to producing/editing videos of a male dancing around. I just need time and improved video editing skills.
Wonderful images, Jason. My wife and I are going to the Galápagos Islands in June - is the Choco area reasonably easy to get to from Quito? I've read about unrest in the country - how did you find it?
Superb, varied set Jason. I shot professional video in the 1970s and 80's and then lost interest. It was very different back then with large cameras and real to real recording. I also ran the switcher for live editing and TD calling the camera shots. It's so different today. Video editing is very time consuming yet can be rewarding
Wonderful shots, I also am curious how you found the political situation there having been there previously in 2018 and loving it. It's such an amazingly beautiful place, hopefully they can tamp down the violence.
Thanks Dave. Your response came before I had time to add images to the 2nd set.
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johnohio wrote:
Wow Jason !!! Amazing set ! Easy vote for me.
John
Thanks John
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Blueridger wrote:
Wonderful images, Jason. My wife and I are going to the Galápagos Islands in June - is the Choco area reasonably easy to get to from Quito? I've read about unrest in the country - how did you find it?
Steve
Thanks Steve. I spent most of my time in the San Miguel de los Bancos and Mindo area. It is very easy to get to the area although some of the photo locations require a 4x4.
I'm glad you asked about the unrest as I meant to mention it in my post. I didn't see any signs of unrest it was very peaceful. When gunmen stormed the TV station on Jan 9th I didn't think I would be departing for Ecuador on Jan 19th. Between Jan 9 and 19th I spoke to many of people in Ecuador and I was assured things were normal and peaceful in the area I was going. I wasn't in Quito for long but it also seemed peaceful. Regardless of where I travel I'm always 'on guard' and take extra precautions. I heard of a number of people who canceled trips to Ecuador only to regret it after receiving accurate information from those in the country rather than relying on news headlines.
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probishaw wrote:
Remarkable set. Each one a pleasure to view.
douter wrote:
Your colors and poses are excellent, Jason, with just the right amount of saturation!
Douglas
Thanks Douglas. I do appreciate the saturation feedback as I'm never sure how much is too much.
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sum1sgrampa wrote:
So many beautiful birds and so well presented. Excellent ! Love #20
Gary
Thanks Gary. #20 is special for me.
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morris wrote:
Superb, varied set Jason. I shot professional video in the 1970s and 80's and then lost interest. It was very different back then with large cameras and real to real recording. I also ran the switcher for live editing and TD calling the camera shots. It's so different today. Video editing is very time consuming yet can be rewarding
Morris
Thanks Morris. So far, I'm really enjoying video and am glad I finally went for it. There's probably no turning back now.
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RichP42 wrote:
Fantastic series of photos Jason! Love #4 in particular.
So much diversity compared to Ontario!
Thanks for sharing.
Richard
Thanks Richard. Yes, so much diversity and colour. We don't get a lot of colour in Ontario during the winter.
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Bobby V wrote:
Wonderful shots, I also am curious how you found the political situation there having been there previously in 2018 and loving it. It's such an amazingly beautiful place, hopefully they can tamp down the violence.
Thanks Bobby. I agree, Ecuador is an amazing place. So much to see and the people are very welcoming.
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