The decision to get inked requires serious consideration. There are a lot of factors to look at such as the choice of the artist and the studio, the cost of the tattoo, safety issues, etc. In order to find a good artist, you require a bit of research. You can look for local artists using search terms with your location. Use them during online searches to find names of leading artists in your local area. For instance, try tattoo artists Raleigh or something on similar lines.
So, once you have identified an artist for your tattoo; consider asking them these five questions before you get inked.
Question 1 – About Experience
Consider asking the tattoo artists about their total experience in this line of work.
Most tattoo artists specialize in certain kinds of tattoo styles only. Some artists have extensive experience in one or two tattoo styles such as portraits or abstracts; while others may only offer services in one category of inked patterns. So, it is extremely important to ask them about their work experience before choosing them for your tattoo.
Extensive experience in a line of work often equates with more knowledge. An experienced tattoo artist will know more about inks and their compatibility with different skin types. They can also help you decide on a tattoo pattern based on your idea or vision about it. They are also likely to be more accomplished in their work.
Question 2 – About Portfolio
Consider checking the artists’ portfolio.
It is not enough to know about the artists’ experience in inking tattoo patterns. You need to know if their experience reflects in their work or not. Also, even if an artist is very experienced, you still need to know if you connect with his or her work. So, ask the artists to show you their portfolio.
Some tattoo studios showcase their artists’ portfolios on their websites. You can check those pages. You can also check the studios’ or the artists’ social media channels to see their work samples. Nevertheless, it is also important to ask the artists to showcase the work to you on their own. They might have done some tattoo patterns that are not available on the websites or social pages.
Browsing through an artist’s work can give you a fair idea if you connect with their work.
Question 3 – About Hygiene
Consider asking all the questions you have in mind about the safety practices followed in the artists’ studios.
It is best to avoid tattoo studios where you see the employees neglecting basic hygiene stuff or being careless about the safety of their customers. Be proactive and ask the artists about the sterilization practices followed in their studios and the kind of tools they use. Also, ask them about the disposal system of bio-hazard waste and the safety protocols in place about it.
If you have queries about the kind of ink used by the artists, feel free to ask about it. You need to ensure that your skin will be safe after getting inked. So, it is best to not hesitate to ask the questions about hygiene and safety to tattoo artists you are considering.
Question 4 – About Aftercare
Consider asking about the aftercare practices the artists recommend before you get your tattoo.
Reputed and professional tattoo artists will always give a list of aftercare practices to follow to all their customers. But you can gauge the professionalism of the tattoo artists by the exhaustive list of aftercare practices they share with you.
If an artist simply states to not take long showers and to apply an ointment on the tattoo then it is likely that he or she doesn’t really care for the customers. Professional artists will always ensure that their customers are aware of all the aftercare practices to follow to keep infections away and to protect their tattoo too.
Question 5 – About Cost
Consider asking the important question about the cost. It is best to not be shy about asking the rates an artist charges for the tattoo work. Most tattoo artists charge by the hour. So, you need to know if you can afford to hire an artist for your tattoo.