How to get the best photos of your pets!
You probably have a million photos of your pets stored in your phone, whether it’s an image of your dog sleeping in a silly position or a shot of your cat enjoying a patch of sun. Our amateur pet photos are fun to share with others, but what if you want something more permanent so you can remember them “furr-ever?”
We spoke with three professional photographers who specialize in shooting pics of pets around Atlanta to learn how to get the best images.
DENISE ADELMAN
Adelman Photography Atlanta
Denise Adelman has owned her Sandy Springs photo studio since 2020. She says pets can be like children when it comes to posing for the camera, so she has developed a lot of patience over the years.
Her advice for capturing a great photo is to get on their level first and then take the photos once they feel more comfortable. A favorite treat or toy can go a long way in gaining their trust and putting them at ease. It also helps to have a partner interacting with the pet while you are snapping the photos.
Adelman has been photographing her dog, Angus O’Neil, since he was a puppy, and she has trained him to pose while they are on hikes. While visiting a friend’s studio to drop off equipment, Angus walked right up to the backdrop, waiting to have his picture taken. She says starting the process when they are young is key.
COURTNEY BRYSON
CM Bryson Photography
Courtney Bryson opened her Morgan County studio in 2017, and she visits the Atlanta area regularly to shoot pet photography. Some of her favorite locations include Duck Pond Park and Frankie Allen Park in Buckhead.
She treats dog photo shoots like a game and says treats, toys and affection help pups become more engaged. For cats, she says to concentrate on photographing them in areas where they regularly hang out. She also uses wand and laser toys to gets cats more involved. Bryson also specializes in taking photos of horses and says, because of their size, it is helpful to back up and zoom in.
“Horses can be nervous of new things, so giving them time to investigate the equipment can be helpful before taking their photo,” she says. “I also encourage the owner to practice just standing still with their horse before the session, then shaking a bucket with a bit of grain in it to grab their attention and get their ears up.”
DIEGO RODRIGUEZ
Diego the Pet Photographer
Diego Rodriguez has been a professional photographer for 15-plus years, with the last six dedicated primarily to pets. Most of his work is done in his Marietta-based studio, but he also takes photos at pet-friendly events and businesses all over Atlanta, including Buckhead.
Some of his top tips include keeping the experience fun and energetic, focusing on the eyes since they reveal the pup’s personality and not forcing poses. “Often the best images happen during natural moments,” he says.
For cats, Rodriguez suggests letting them explore the space first if it is unfamiliar, keeping the environment calm and quiet, and watching for subtle expressions and body language. “Be ready for brief moments of engagement as cats often decide when the photo will happen.”
ADELMAN PHOTOGRAPHY ATLANTA
adelmanphotographyatlanta.com
@adelmanphotographyatlanta.com
CM BRYSON PHOTOGRAPHY
cmbryson.com
@cmbryson
DIEGO THE PET PHOTOGRAPHER
diegothepetphotographer.com
@diegothepetphotographer
