ATLANTA PET PHOTOGRAPHER BLOG
Courtney’s Journal
Advice, tips, locations &  stories for Pet Parents.
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Learn Why A Sunrise Session Might Be Perfect for Your Georgia Dog Photography Session
Getting up before dawn for a dog photography session might not sound appealing — until you've seen what early morning light does to a portrait. Atlanta pet photographer Courtney Bryson makes the case for sunrise.
Golden Sun, Cooler Mornings, Fewer Distractions — Why Sunrise Sessions Work for Dog Photography
Golden light. Empty parks. A dog who isn't melting. Atlanta pet photographer Courtney Bryson breaks down exactly why sunrise sessions consistently produce the best dog portraits — and which dogs benefit most.
Best Times for Outdoor Pet Photos in Atlanta — Beating the Southern Heat | CM Bryson
Timing your Atlanta dog photography session isn't just about light — it's about keeping your dog safe and comfortable in Georgia's brutal heat. Here's how I think about scheduling, and what to bring when it's warm.
How to Prepare Your Horse for Their Equine Photo Session
Everything you need to do before your horse's photo session — from groundwork prep to tack choices to the treat strategy that keeps ears up and attention forward. Atlanta, Georgia equine photographer Courtney Bryson's complete guide.
What to Wear for Your Equine Photo Session
Choosing what to wear for your equine photo session involves considerations you won't find in any general photography guide. Georgia equine photographer Courtney Bryson shares what works — both in and out of the saddle.
What to Wear - A Guide for Photos with Your Dog
Choosing what to wear for your dog's photo session doesn't have to be stressful. Atlanta dog photographer Courtney Bryson shares exactly what works, what to avoid, and one pro tip that no one ever tells you about what to wear.
5 Things to Know Before Your Pet Portrait Event Session
Pet portrait events are short, fun, low-stress sessions designed to work for every dog — including the shy ones and the wiggly ones. Here's exactly what to expect and how to prepare.
5 Things To Prepare Before Your Dog’s Photo Shoot
Don't show up unprepared to your dog's photo session. Here's exactly what to bring, what to leave at home, and how to set your dog up for their best portraits yet.
How I Help Shy or Anxious Dogs Shine in Front of the Camera
Anxious dogs make some of the most moving portraits I've ever created. Atlanta dog photographer Courtney Bryson shares exactly how she works with shy, fearful, and reactive dogs — and why "now" is always the right time.
Loose Leashes - Your Dog Doesn't Have to be Perfect to be Photographed
Nearly every dog in the CM Bryson Photography portfolio was wearing a leash during their session. Here's how leash removal works, why safety always comes first, and why your dog's "imperfections" are actually the whole point.
Can you photograph my dog even if he isn't well trained?
Your dog doesn't need to know a single command to have a successful professional pet photography session. Atlanta dog photographer Courtney Bryson explains exactly how it works — and why untrained dogs often make the best subjects.
Favorite Parks for Dog Photography from Atlanta to Athens, GA
A Georgia pet photographer's guide to the best parks and locations for dog photography — from Atlanta to Athens, Duluth to Suwanee. What makes each one work, who it's best for, and when to go.
Photographing Dogs at Three Chimneys - Cumming, Georgia
Three Chimneys in Cumming, Georgia made the perfect backdrop for a three-dog, including 2 Tibetan Mastiffs, session — and it's a great example of what private, home-turf locations can do for a multi-dog shoot. Here's what to expect.
Dog Photography at McDaniel Farm Park in Duluth, Georgia
McDaniel Farm Park in Duluth is one of my favorite metro Atlanta locations for dog photography — rolling hills, gorgeous morning light, and enough space for multi-dog sessions. Here's what makes it work.
Dog Photography at Atlanta’s Georgia Tech Campus
Georgia Tech's Atlanta campus is an unexpected gem for dog photography — public art sculptures, iconic architecture, flower-filled Tech Square, and stunning views of the Atlanta skyline. Here's what to expect.
Dog Photography Locations on a Walk Through Athens, Georgia’s Ben Burton Park
Ben Burton Park in Athens, Georgia is a 32-acre wildlife preserve with some of the most beautiful natural light I've found for dog photography. Here's a location-by-location guide to what makes it work.
Dog Friendly Roswell, Georgia - Pet Photographer Finds Blooms in the City
Roswell, Georgia is one of the most dog friendly cities in the southeast — and Canton Street is one of my favorite spots for dog photography. Here's what makes it work and what to expect from a session there.
Dog Friendly Ponce City Market — Atlanta, GA
Ponce City Market is one of Atlanta's most dog friendly destinations — and one of my favorite spots for urban dog photography. Here's what makes it work, and what to expect from a session there.
Beyond Goodbye: Transforming End of Life Pet Photography into Memorial Wall Art
The session is just the beginning. Atlanta pet photographer Courtney Bryson shares how end-of-life pet photographs become the wall art you look at every single day — and why that matters more than you might expect.
What You Should Know Before You Schedule A Memorial Photography Session for Your Dog
Thinking about a memorial photography session for your dog? Atlanta pet photographer Courtney Bryson shares what to expect, when to schedule, and what these images become in the years after your dog is gone.