ATLANTA PET PHOTOGRAPHER BLOG
Courtney’s Journal
Advice, tips, locations &  stories for Pet Parents.
Why January & February Are Some of the Most Beautiful Months to Photograph Your Dog
Winter might not be the season you immediately think of for dog photography — but January and February are some of the most beautiful months of the year to photograph your dog. With warm, monochromatic landscapes, cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and earlier session times, winter creates the perfect conditions for relaxed sessions and stunning artwork. If your dog has a warm-toned coat or prefers cooler weather, this season is truly their time to shine.
Holiday Hounds - And The Dogs Who Come Back Every Year
Every year, Holiday Hounds is one of my favorite events on the calendar.
And it’s full of dogs who have grown up in front of my camera — the puppies who are now teenagers, the once-nervous pups who now strut in like they own the city, and the families who come year after year because it’s become their tradition.
It’s part reunion, part celebration, part joyful circus.
But this year… this year had a moment that stopped me in my tracks.
Balancing Creativity and Commerce: The Real Work of Being an Artist Who Makes a Living
Being an artist who makes a living from their art means walking a constant tightrope between creativity and commerce. In this post, I’m sharing how I balance inspiration with sustainable business systems so I can create meaningful, emotionally resonant artwork for my clients and continue growing as an artist. If you’ve ever wondered how creativity and business can support each other instead of compete, this is for you.
The Precautions I Take as an Equine Photographer During the Current EHV-1 Outbreak
Learn how I protect your horse’s health with strict equine photography biosecurity practices during the EHV-1 outbreak, from sanitation protocols to no multi-barn days.
When to Schedule Your End-of-Life Pet Photography Session
When should you schedule end-of-life pet photography for your dog? If you’re asking, the answer is likely now. Learn why earlier sessions help capture your dog on their best days — and how compassionate photography can still honor them beautifully, even in their toughest moments.
Featured in Professional Photographer Magazine: Behind the Scenes
This month, I had the honor of being featured in Professional Photographer Magazine! In their Background section, I share how I create my favorite wildflower portraits — complete with one hand holding the leash, one hand holding the camera, and a squeaky toy between my teeth.
The most popular way to remember your best friend from your dog photo session🐾
This is the go-to artwork clients come back for year after year—see why 90% of pet parents choose a custom photo album to tell their dog’s story (and how you can too).
One Month Without Lira
Lira was more than my dog—she was my daughter, my constant companion, my muse. Her photos tell the story of why I believe so deeply in Signature Sessions: creating timeless artwork, albums, and wall displays that let us hold onto the love we never want to forget.
Same Dock, Different Story: Why No Two Atlanta Dog Photography Sessions Are Alike
No two dog photography sessions are alike. Discover how light, connection, and personality make every portrait one-of-a-kind.
Photographing the Relationship Between You and Your Dog
Want photos that show your real relationship with your dog—not stiff poses? This post explains how I photograph authentic dog and owner sessions in Atlanta, focusing on connection over perfection. You’ll see how simple, everyday moments turn into the images you’ll love most years from now.
How I Help Shy or Anxious Dogs Shine in Front of the Camera
Worried your anxious or reactive dog won’t cooperate for photos? You’re not alone. This post shares how I create calm, dog-first sessions in Atlanta designed to help shy, anxious, or reactive feel safe and seen—so you walk away with images that reflect their true personality.
Senior Dog Photography in Atlanta: Why These Sessions Matter
Senior dog photography isn’t about perfection—it’s about truth. This post shares why these sessions matter so deeply, with practical tips on planning a calm, meaningful session that honors your dog exactly as they are in their golden years.
How Love, Baxter Is Changing the Way We Say Goodbye to Our Pets
A recent conversation with Love, Baxter founder Adam Greenbaum changed the way I think about end-of-life pet photography. We talked about grief, legacy, and the quiet beauty of honoring your pet before the final goodbye—and why these sessions can offer comfort for years to come.
Is My Puppy Too Young for a Professional Photo Session?
Wondering if your puppy is too young for professional photos? Spoiler: they’re not! This joyful session with a white English Labrador puppy at Indian Creek Park in Rutledge, GA shows why now is the perfect time to capture their playful spirit. Atlanta Dog Photographer Courtney Bryson of CM Bryson Photography shares expert tips for successful puppy photo sessions — even if your pup is still learning the basics.
How Minimalist Backgrounds Make Dog Photography Stand Outs
See how minimalist backgrounds highlight your dog’s authentic personality in custom dog photography. Natural light, simple backgrounds, and expressive portraits in Athens, GA.
How to Choose the RIGHT Location for Your Dog’s Photography Session in Atlanta, GA
Your chosen location will be one of the biggest factors in how your final images will look. But, we don’t just consider aesthetics, we also consider YOUR dog.
Announcing the 2026 Athens Area Horse Community Calendar Photo Contest
100% of the proceeds from the Horse Calendar Contest submissions, voting, and sales of the calendar will go directly to Athens Area Horse Community to aid in their dedication to sustainably stimulate the growth of the local horse community.
Milo & Walt - Indian Creek Park - Georgia Sunset Session
Milo & Walt’s sunset pet photography session at Indian Creek Park in Rutledge, GA was filled with golden light, perfect temperatures, and plenty of personality! This 60-acre natural park offers wide grassy paths, open fields, and peaceful surroundings, making it an ideal location for reactive dogs, nervous pups, and high-energy explorers alike.
Where do your favorite photos live?
When I read this line the other day it really stuck with me… Where do your favorite photos live?
Are they tucked away on your phone? Lost in a sea of screenshots? Do you find yourself scrolling endlessly to find that one picture?
I get it. Digital images are great for sharing—but the real magic happens when you bring those moments to life.
Your favorite portraits of your dog deserve to be seen every single day. That's exactly why I specialize in heirloom-quality prints, framed wall art, and albums because your favorite pictures deserve something better.