Chlorophyll derivatives were functionalized with a trifluoroamide (TFA) group to obtain colorimetric ion sensors. Prior to this, a NO2BF4*pyridine based, chlorin nitration method was developed. The base strength dependent sensing of AcO−, F− and CN− ions was detected in aqueous media, which was enhanced in nonprotic solvents by an integration of the ditopic chelation capable amine crown-6 moiety.