Painting Foliage for Pet Portraits: Creating Natural Atmosphere

I’m currently getting lost in the leafy details of this Labrador portrait! 🎨 For this piece, I’m really focusing on the background, layering in textures to bring the outdoors in.

I’ve found that the secret to a natural environment is embracing a bit of randomness. If every leaf is perfectly shaped or the same shade of green, it can feel stiff and distract from the subject. By mixing in unexpected tones—like hints of gold, deep blues, and even purples—the background starts to feel alive. This depth creates a natural atmosphere that really makes the Labrador pop. Stay tuned to see how this sweet pup comes together! 🐾✨