Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Connolly
Lauren, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Before Wild Developments, my journey was centered around conservation, wildlife, and education. I started as a naturalist and diver, and my passion for marine conservation, particularly sea turtles and sharks, led me into significant roles, such as creating Conservation Trips that included a lionfish derby, coral planting, shark tagging, and beach cleanups. Working with sea turtles, penguins, and sharks at an aquarium deepened my commitment to their protection and spurred my interest in educating others about the importance of wildlife conservation.
My journey took a challenging turn in 2020 when I experienced significant burnout. The demands of work and life caught up with me, and I found myself feeling depleted. Nature and art became essential to my healing during that challenging time. Reconnecting with the natural world through activities like nature journaling and photography helped me regain my peace and balance.
This recovery period inspired me to share the transformative power of nature and creativity with others. It became clear that I could help people struggling with similar challenges by encouraging them to slow down, reflect, and heal through mindful engagement with nature and art. That passion drives Wild Developments today, focusing on fostering those connections for others.
Alongside conservation, I worked with my husband as a drone pilot for JL Aerial Views, focusing on using drone technology for conservation efforts like deer surveys and monitoring invasive tree species. These experiences strengthened my desire to help people see the natural world differently and led to the creation of Wild Developments.
By combining my photography, art, and drone technology skills with my love for nature, Wild Developments became a space for people to explore creative ways to connect with the outdoors. Through workshops, nature journaling, and events, I aimed to inspire people to appreciate and protect the environment, just as I had been inspired throughout my conservation journey.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road to Wild Developments Studio was far from smooth. After my burnout in 2020, it took nearly four years to find clarity. Initially, I launched a coaching brand called Complete Courage, but I struggled with scattered ideas and lacked a clear direction. I then transitioned to Lauren Connolly Photography and LC Aqua Art, which allowed me to explore my creative side through art and photography, but something still felt incomplete—the conservation aspect, which had always been central to my life, was missing.
It wasn’t until later that the pieces finally clicked. I realized I could combine my passions for wildlife, art, and adventure to inspire people to care about nature. That realization led to the creation of Wild Developments Studio, a place where creativity and conservation meet, and where I could share my love for wildlife and the outdoors in a way that encouraged others to protect it. It was a long journey, filled with trial and error, but each step helped shape the vision I have today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At Wild Developments Studio, I specialize in helping people reconnect with nature through creative activities like nature journaling, art, and photography. I’m known for my colorful pet portraits, which highlight the unique bond between pets and nature. I believe that pets play a significant role in helping us connect to the natural world, and their presence often brings a deeper appreciation for the environment.
My work focuses on teaching others how to slow down, observe their surroundings, and engage with nature creatively. What sets me apart is the combination of my background in marine conservation, photography, and drone-based conservation efforts with my personal healing journey through art and nature. This unique blend allows me to offer a perspective that merges creativity with environmental stewardship.
I’m most proud of creating a space where people not only learn new skills but also develop a stronger connection to the environment. Whether through Earth and Easel events or nature journaling workshops, my goal is to inspire others to appreciate and protect the natural world while exploring their artistic side.
How do you think about happiness?
What makes me happy is connecting with nature and sharing that joy with others through art and creativity. My love for wildlife and the outdoors, which I discovered and nurtured during my journey to heal from burnout, brings me immense fulfillment. Engaging with nature and creating art not only provides me with peace but also allows me to inspire and educate others about the importance of conservation.
Seeing others reconnect with the natural world—whether through nature journaling, photography, or my colorful pet portraits—is incredibly rewarding. Witnessing people find their own sense of wonder and appreciation for nature reinforces my passion and gives me a profound sense of purpose. It’s the combination of personal fulfillment and making a positive impact on others’ lives that truly brings me joy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wilddevelopmentsstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wilddevelopmentsstudio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurenConnollyPhotography
- Twitter: https://x.com/WildDevStudio
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WildDevelopmentsStudio
