It is a good idea to research the top 20 tattoo artists in your city. Not only their info and where their studio is located but also their specialty and style. Yes, tattoo artists are good artists, but not all of them are good in a specific design or style.
For example, one tattoo artist is an expert at creating tribal tattoos, but not that good in making portraits. So it would be advisable if you check the artist’s portfolio, and if you get a chance to see him work, it would be ideal before you decide on finalizing your artist. There is a certain level of connection that one gets when they watch the artist work; the rapport he has with his client, the way he works on the skin, the set-up around the artist, are some of the factors that you should take into consideration. If you feel at any point that there is something missing or you are not comfortable, then walk out.
A clean, orderly work area, with sterile equipment and absolute transparency about the work carried out in the studio is indicative of a professional artist.
Today’s tattoo industry has many different styles of art. Old-School Tattoo, Tribal Tattoo, Japanese Tattoo, Minimal Tattoo, Geometric Tattoo, Realism/Hyper-realism Tattoo, Religious Tattoo, Abstract/Contemporary Tattoo, are a few. Each of the above categories has a unique style approach to it. Artists who specialize in any of these styles will have a distinct way of approaching the design.
For example, an artist who specializes in Realistic Tattoos will use minimal outlines in his work to ensure the design looks as real as possible and concentration will be given to shading, color blending, backgrounds, to maximize the effect of the tattooed image. It will be quite difficult or rather boring for the artist to work on a tribal or geometric tattoo.
So, next time you plan to get inked, do keep these points in mind!!