Lola the Sun Conure. Exotic Bird Portraits. Toledo Ohio Pet Photography.

From Jessica:

Lola the sun conure was my first exotic bird model. When I photograph any new creature it’s hard to know what to expect. I have little experience working with or being around birds. It’s a challenge I wanted to give myself as a photographer and animal lover. A parrot can be a whole life commitment. Conures live between 15-30 years. The time we spend with our dogs, cats or horses can deeply impact our lives. Birds are no different.

Lola definitely gave me the challenge I was looking for. She is very sweet but also extremely attached to her owner, Bri. This meant she didn’t want her mom to be more than a few steps away. With snacks and time, she did warm up to the idea of having a camera in her space. Another challenge was that Lola has a neurological issue, which meant flash photography was not an option for her. This made capturing photos of a swiftly flying bird a little bit more difficult. After getting used to me she did show me some of her dance moves, and say her favorite words.

Keep reading to find out more about Lola from Bri.

Meet Lola:

What type of bird is Lola? How did you get interested in having a bird? Lola is a sun conure. I've always loved all types of animals since I was young, and birds have always fascinated me. I've had birds before, so I wanted to try again when I got her for my 21st birthday.
How did Lola come into your life and how long have you had her? I guess I answered some of this one in the first question. I saw her at a Pet Supplies chain and fell in love; I had to have her! So I've had her for 12 years.
What does caring for a bird like Lola look like? What would you tell someone thinking about getting one? Birds are a lot of responsibility. Their diet is complex and can be specific. You have to do your research in depth! They're also pretty sensitive to a lot of things like candles or essential oils. Some are even deadly! They're also oddly hormonal for an animal, Lola goes through phases all year where she's fine one day, then an angry rainbow ball the next. I do not recommend a bird as a first-time pet unless you're ready for the commitment.
Does she interact with/get along with other animals in your home? Lola is a one-person bird. She will attack my fiancè and does not like being around my cats (she is always monitored closely while out because my cats can be jerks).
What makes Lola unique? Tell us about her personality. Lola is unique in a way that, unlike most pet companions, she'll live with me for a long time. Conures average 20-30 years. She's very cuddly, will dance when I have certain music on (she's a fan of rock and roll), and she just a goofball when she's playing around. She makes these silly noises or imitates me if I blow raspberries. I could go on forever about her little quirks.
What stood out to you about your experience working with Jessica in your home? I've worked with Jessica before, so I knew she'd be professional. She was engaged with Lola and made sure she was always comfortable. I had briefly mentioned that Lola has some neurological issues in the past, and she changed up her setup with no hesitation.

All photos were taken in Toledo, OH by Photographer Jessica.

JESSICA TRUMBULL IS A PET AND HORSE PHOTOGRAPHER LOCATED IN TOLEDO, OHIO. SHE HAPPILY SERVES TOLEDO, OHIO AND ALL OF NORTHWEST OHIO WITH HER PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY AND COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WORK.

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