Tattoo Advice: Choosing An Artist

Hey there, beautiful souls!  Are you considering getting your first tattoo or adding another piece of art to your collection? As a tattoo artist with a decade of experience in this amazing industry, I’ve seen first-hand how important it is to choose the right artist and studio. Whether you're a seasoned ink lover or a first-timer, here are some tips to help you find the perfect match.

1. Check Out the Artist’s Portfolio

Before you book an appointment, always look at the artist’s portfolio. This is crucial because it gives you a sense of their style and skill level. Every artist has their unique flair, and you want to make sure their style aligns with what you have in mind. Whether you're after delicate line work, vibrant colours, or intricate designs, make sure your artist can deliver.

2. Experience Matters

Experience is key when it comes to tattoos. An experienced artist has honed their technical skills and knows how to handle different skin types and body areas. They can advise you on placement, size, and design that will work best for you. Trust me, experience makes a huge difference in the quality of your tattoo.

3. Can They Do the Style You Want?

Tattoo styles vary widely, from traditional and neo-traditional to realism, watercolour, and minimalistic designs. Make sure your chosen artist specializes in the style you want. This ensures that your tattoo will turn out exactly as you envision it. Don’t be afraid to ask about their experience level with your preferred style!

4. Cleanliness and Infection Control

A clean and sanitary studio is non-negotiable. Here’s what to look for:

• Gloves: Your artist should always wear gloves during the tattoo process.
• Sterile Surface: All equipment should be placed on a sterile surface.
• New Cartridges/Needles: Make sure they use new cartridges/needles and open them before you.

 In Queensland, tattoo artists are required by law to be qualified to maintain infection control standards and must hold a tattoo license. A tattoo license means the artist has completed their infection control qualification and has no criminal history, but it doesn’t necessarily mean they are an experienced artist.

5. Comfort and Fair Pricing

Feeling comfortable with your artist and in the studio is incredibly important. You should feel at ease discussing your ideas, asking questions, and expressing concerns. Additionally, you should feel confident that you won’t be overcharged. A good artist will take the time to listen to you and make sure you feel confident and comfortable throughout the process.

6. Inclusivity and Welcoming Vibes

At Smoke & Mirrors Tattoo Co, we pride ourselves on being a welcoming and inclusive space. We believe everyone should feel comfortable and respected, regardless of their background or identity. Our team is dedicated to making your tattoo experience as positive and empowering as possible.

Research Tips To Find The Right Fit For Your Next Tattoo

Word of mouth: Word of mouth is the best way to find a great tattoo artist. This way, you know there’s a real person behind the feedback, and you can view their work first hand. In today’s digitally saturated, fast-paced world, you can’t always trust online reviews are from real people or that the tattoo image hasn’t been edited. If you can’t rely on word of mouth, seeing well-lit photos of healed tattoos is the best proof.

Social Media: Use social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to explore an artist's portfolio. Check for consistency in their work and see how they interact with their followers. Engaging with their audience is a good sign of professionalism.

Online Reviews: While online reviews can be helpful, they should be taken with a grain of salt. Look for detailed reviews and multiple sources for a balanced view of the artist’s reputation.

Choosing the right tattoo artist and studio is a big decision, but with these tips, you're on your way to finding the perfect match. Remember, your tattoo reflects you, so take the time to find an artist and studio that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Ready to get inked? Come visit us at Smoke and Mirrors Tattoo Co. We can’t wait to help you bring your tattoo dreams to life!