ATLANTA PET PHOTOGRAPHER BLOG
Courtney’s Journal
Advice, tips, locations &  stories for Pet Parents.
Browse for...
- About the Photographer
- Advice for Dog Parents
- Award Winning Images
- Charity and Giving Back
- Dog Breeds
- Dog Photography
- Embark Challenge Sessios
- End of Life Pet Photog...
- End of Life Pet Photography
- Equine Photography
- Foster Dog Stories
- Georgia
- Madison
- Pet Portraits
- Rescue Dog
- Rescued Dog
- Senior Dogs
- Start Here
Why Photographing Your Dog in Rural Settings is a Picture-Perfect Idea
Green fields, golden light, open space, and almost no distractions. Here's why I keep coming back to rural Georgia locations for dog photography sessions — and why your dog will too.
The Most Popular Keepsake from a Dog Photography Session
Over 90% of CM Bryson clients choose a custom album after their session. Here's why it's the one product people reach for again and again — and what's inside the most popular collection.
Yes, Cell Phone Photos are Important
Phone photos matter. Professional photos are different — not just in how they look, but in the intention behind making them. Here's why both have a place.
The Best Dog Collars for Pet Photography
Your dog's leash disappears in post — but their collar stays in every image. Here's what actually works for pet photography, from the naked look to something sentimental.
Where do you draw the line on Photoshop?
A friend called upset that her portraits were too airbrushed. It got me thinking about Photoshop, pet photography, cataracts, shaved legs, and where I actually draw the line.
5 Must Have Photos from Your Pet Photography Session
Five types of images every pet photography session should include — from the face-filling close-up to the family portrait you'll be glad you got. An Atlanta dog photographer's guide to what matters most.
Tricks to Get Dogs to Look at the Camera
From squeaky noises to telephoto lenses to super stinky treats — here are the real tricks an Atlanta dog photographer uses to get every type of dog looking right at the camera.
DIY-ing Your Dog’s Photos
A professional dog photographer tried to DIY her own dog photos. It took 5x as long, produced 10 usable images in 2 hours, and included an unflattering video of her rear end. Here's when it's time to hire someone.
Tips for New Pet Parents
Adding a new dog to your family is exciting — and a little overwhelming. Atlanta dog photographer and 15-year foster veteran Courtney Bryson shares what she's learned from bringing hundreds of dogs into her home.
How to Senior Dog Proof Your House
Senior dogs need a home that works with their aging bodies, not against them. Atlanta dog photographer and rescue advocate Courtney Bryson shares her favorite tips for making your house more comfortable for an older dog.
Is My Puppy Too Young for a Professional Photo Session?
Short answer: almost never. Atlanta dog photographer Courtney Bryson on why puppyhood is one of the most important chapters to photograph — and how to make it work at any age.
Expert tips for successful puppy photo sessions — even if your pup is still learning the basics.
What My 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Actually Means
CM Bryson Photography offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every pet photography session. Love your images or receive a full refund. Here's what that promise actually means.
How Love, Baxter Is Changing the Way We Say Goodbye to Our Pets
Adam said goodbye to his Boston Terrier Baxter without knowing what options existed. Now he's building a resource to change that — and Atlanta dog photographer Courtney Bryson is paying attention.
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.
How Minimalist Backgrounds Make Dog Photography Stand Outs
Five black Labradors. White columns. Almost zero background. Here's why Atlanta dog photographer Courtney Bryson returns to minimalist backgrounds again and again — and how she finds them everywhere.
How An Atlanta Pet Photographer Decides Where to Place Your Dog in a Photo
When clients watch me work, they assume I'm looking for a "pretty spot." Here's what I'm actually doing — and the exact order I think through light, background, foreground, and placement every single time.
Same Dock, Different Story: Why No Two Atlanta Dog Photography Sessions Are Alike
Painters start with a blank canvas. Dog photographers start with real life — a dog, their person, a moment, and the light of a particular day. Here's why even the same location never tells the same story twice.
No two dog photography sessions are alike. Discover how light, connection, and personality make every portrait one-of-a-kind.
A Love Letter to All the Dogs I’ve Loved Before
Ryder taught her to see joy. Sissy taught her to take care of others. Bella taught her to go after what she wanted. Lira made her a mother. Atlanta dog photographer Courtney Bryson on the dogs who made her who she is.
Photographers Create a Reflection of the World We Wish to See
A podcast interview stopped Atlanta dog photographer Courtney Bryson cold. The idea: photographers don't reflect the world as it is — they reflect the world they wish to see. Here's what that means for why she photographs dogs.
Photographing Young Puppies Who Can’t Go On Location Yet
Young puppies who aren't fully vaccinated yet don't have to wait for professional portraits. Atlanta dog photographer Courtney Bryson explains how in-studio sessions keep puppies safe while capturing the tiny, fluffy, wobbly stage before it's gone.
How to Choose the RIGHT Location for Your Dog’s Photography Session in Atlanta, GA
Shy dog? City dog? Adventure dog? The right location depends entirely on your dog's personality. Atlanta dog photographer Courtney Bryson shares her location guide — from quiet private venues for reactive dogs to pontoon boats on Lake Lanier.