Bringing Your Pet’s Personality to Life on Canvas

I specialise in creating vibrant, unique portraits of your adorable furry and feathered companions, bursting with lively colours and expressive brushstrokes in a style I affectionately call ‘expressive realism.’ Each stroke captures the essence of their charming personality quirks and emotions. The twinkle in their eye, a cheeky, mischievous grin—these elements contribute to the overall narrative, making each portrait a magical, unique, and deeply personal piece of art.

Whether it’s the loving gaze of a loyal dog, the playful antics of a curious cat, or the serene elegance of a graceful bird, my portraits bring out the unique personality of each pet. I take the time to understand their stories, habits, and favourite moments, translating those precious details onto the canvas. My goal is to create a piece that not only showcases their physical beauty but also celebrates the bond you share with them.

How to Commission Your Pet Portrait

NOTE: Pet portraits are currently closed, but don't worry! To be ready when commissions open again as it will be for only a short time, read through the following so you are prepared and ready!

Commissioning a portrait of your beloved pet can be a delightful experience and is a wonderful way to cherish your furry friend forever. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process:

  • Provide 2-3 clear digital reference photos of your precious pet via email:

    Make sure the photos show your pet from different angles (front, side, close-up of their face) so I can get a full sense of their features. The closer and clearer, the better!

  • Provide a list of any distinguishing physical features:

    This could include unique markings, scars, or any other details you’d like to be highlighted in the portrait.

  • Provide a short paragraph describing any personality traits or a funny story about your pet:

    Feel free to share what makes your pet special! Whether it’s a favorite toy, a funny habit or something that captures their character, this helps me bring their personality to life on the canvas.

  • Once I have accepted your commission, I will send you a written agreement:

    Please read, sign, and return along with your 50% deposit. I’ll then get started creating your pet portrait. You’ll receive progress updates along the way if requested, and the final balance will be due once the painting is complete.

Tips for providing a great reference photo to ensure an awesome portrait!

Quality:

  • I would like to see your pet clearly. Details should be sharp and visible, not blurry. Avoid pixelated or low-resolution images, as I need to see fine details like fur texture and eye expression.

  • Distance:

    Nice and close is ideal. Too far away means I will not be able to see enough detail. Be sure your photo shows any distinguishing features, marks, or scars you would like included. Aim for a head-and-shoulders shot for a close-up portrait.

  • Lighting:

    Natural lighting is best. Avoid harsh shadows or overly bright areas. Darkness, flash, and filters can make it difficult to see your pet’s colours and features accurately. Outdoor photos or ones taken near a window often work best.

  • Expression:

    A happy & relaxed pet will make a big difference to the overall result. Your portrait will capture your pet's spirit and emotion, so try to include it in your reference photo. Photos that show their natural behaviour, like playing or lounging, are ideal.

Pet Portrait Price List

Curious about pricing for a custom pet portrait? Ready to learn more?

FAQ

  • Are pet portrait commissions currently open?

    Thanks so much for your interest! At the moment, my pet portrait commissions are currently closed as I am fully booked. However, you can join my Art Lovers mailing list to be the first to know when spots open up again. Keep an eye on this page for updates as well!

  • When will your pet portrait commissions be open?

    Pet portrait commissions open a few times each year, depending on my schedule and availability. To ensure you don’t miss out, I recommend joining my Art Lovers mailing list for early access and updates on when commissions will become available again. You can also check this page regularly for the latest updates.

  • Turnaround Time

    Once I receive your deposit and reference photos, please allow 3-4 weeks for your portrait to be completed. This timeline includes time for drying and any final touches before shipping. I will keep you updated throughout the process.

  • Can I combine multiple pets in one portrait?
    Yes, I can absolutely create a portrait featuring more than one pet! Additional costs apply for each additional subject, depending on size and complexity. Please contact me for a custom quote if you’d like multiple pets included in one piece.

  • What if I don’t have great photos of my pet?
    I’ll do my best to work with the photos you provide, but feel free to send a few different options, and we’ll pick the best one together.

  • What size options are available?

    I offer a variety of sizes on MDF Wood Panel, Framed Deep Edge Canvas and 300gsm Paper.

    The most popular sizes include:

    20x25cm (8x10")

    30x30cm (12x12")

    25x25cm (10x10”)

    If you're looking for a custom size, feel free to get in touch for a quote. I can do any size and ratio for MDF flat panel and cradled panel pieces as we custom make these to suit. Framed Deep Edge Canvas is only available in 3 sizes at this time and paper can be made any size up to A3

  • What materials do you use?

    I use professional acrylic paints on MDF wood panels, deep canvases, or heavyweight 300gsm paper, depending on the size and style you choose. I also use gloss gel mediums for additional texture and depth and all pieces are sealed with varnish for protection and longevity.

  • Can you do my commission in a different style?

    While I appreciate all forms of art, my focus is on expressive realism—a style that’s vibrant, bold and captures the personality of your pet through loose brushstrokes and dynamic colours. If you’re looking for a different style, I may not be the right fit. I’m passionate about bringing out the unique spirit of each pet using my signature approach.

  • How is my portrait shipped?

    All portraits are carefully packaged to ensure safe delivery. Where possible, I use recycled packaging to minimize environmental impact. Each painting is shipped via a trackable method for peace of mind.

    I ship both domestically within Australia and internationally to selected countries. Shipping costs will be calculated based on your location and added to the final balance of your portrait.

  • Do you ship internationally?
    Yes, I can ship worldwide. Shipping costs will be calculated based on your location. Please contact me for a quote.

  • Do you accept urgent commissions?

    If you’re working with a tight deadline, please let me know as early as possible. While I can’t always guarantee faster turnaround times due to my schedule, I’ll do my best to accommodate special requests for urgent commissions.

  • What happens if I want changes to the portrait?

    Before finalizing your portrait, I will send you a photo of the completed artwork. At this point, you can request any minor adjustments. I want you to love the final piece, and I’m happy to make small tweaks if necessary.

  • What is your refund policy?

    Due to the custom nature of pet portraits, I do not offer refunds once the portrait has been started. However, I will ensure you are happy with the final result through regular communication and progress updates. If you need to cancel your order before the painting process begins, your deposit may be refunded on a case-by-case basis.

  • How do I care for my portrait once it arrives?

    Acrylic paintings are durable, but it’s best to display your portrait out of direct sunlight and away from extreme temperatures. For cleaning, simply dust the surface lightly with a soft, dry cloth.

  • Have More Questions?

    If you have any other questions not covered here, feel free to contact me. I’m happy to help!

What Clients Are Saying

I’m so grateful to have worked with wonderful pet owners who trusted me to capture the unique spirit of their beloved companions. Here’s what a few of them have shared about their experience with Penny Apple Studio:

"Penny’s portrait of our dog Bella brought tears to our eyes. She perfectly captured Bella’s playful energy and those soulful eyes we love so much. It’s not just a painting—it’s a piece of our family."

– Sarah & James H.

"I can’t stop staring at the portrait of our cat, Whiskers. Penny’s use of colour and texture made the painting so lively, and it truly feels like he’s right there with us. We’ll treasure this forever."

– Emily R.

"The entire process was seamless, and Penny kept me updated with progress photos, which made the whole experience so special. The final piece exceeded my expectations and will hold a place of honour in our home."

– Michael L.

"Penny went above and beyond to make sure every little detail of my dog’s portrait was perfect. From his floppy ears to his soft fur, it’s as if she knew him personally. It’s a piece I’ll cherish forever."

– Mark P.

Share Your Story

I love hearing how my portraits have impacted pet owners and their families. If you’ve commissioned a portrait and would like to share your experience, I’d love to feature your testimonial here! Please email me

Choose Your Surface:

Finding the right surface for your artwork can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to help you select the best option for your unique vision:

  1. Heavyweight Paper (300gsm) Ideal for those who prefer framing their own pieces, this high-quality, 300gsm paper offers a smooth, vibrant surface that captures detail beautifully. Each piece is shipped flat, not rolled, to preserve its shape and make it easy to frame at home. Choose this option if you’re looking for a versatile, framable surface that allows you to personalise the final presentation.

  2. Flat MDF Panel (3mm) Perfect for standard "off the shelf" frames, the flat MDF panel provides a smooth and stable surface, great for sharp details and vibrant colours. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a professional touch with a frame but who would prefer not to invest in a deeper surface. Lightweight yet sturdy, the panel fits easily into most standard frames without the need for custom fitting.

  3. Cradled Wood Panel (4.5cm Deep) This sturdy, gallery-style option features a 4.5cm deep cradle, giving it a beautiful presence on the wall. The cradled wood panel has painted sides, so it’s ready to hang as-is or can be framed later by a professional. Its natural wood backing gives a slightly rustic feel, perfect for adding depth and character to any artwork, while maintaining durability and a professional finish.

  4. Canvas (3.5cm Deep) A classic choice for a timeless look, this 3.5cm deep canvas comes with painted sides, making it ready to hang right away. Canvas is perfect for those who love a traditional, textured surface and a lightweight feel. This option looks stunning unframed for a clean, contemporary presentation but can also be framed later for a more polished, gallery-ready look.

Each surface offers a unique way to showcase your artwork, whether you’re looking for a framable piece, a ready-to-hang canvas, or a gallery-style wood panel with added depth. Choose the option that suits your space and aesthetic best!

Surface Options