I had a consultation a few weeks ago and the artist was a sweetheart. She sketched my idea, had a bomb idea of placement and even stenciled her sketch to visualize her placement. Basically she improved what i wanted and went above and beyond for me. So excited for my appointment with her
As someone who already has tattoos, this was still helpful. I've only had really basic email consultations and still struggle with bringing up price because I don't wanna sound like I'm trying to underpay them.
I've watched many tattoo videos and some have said that it is insulting to ask the price to get your tattoo once you have settled on what you want. Also, some have said cash only..... I would be traveling to the tattoo location and can't go in and pay a deposit and don't really like to carry a lot of cash. Is it insulting to ask to pay the deposit with cc and to pay up at the end with a cc? I have not had a consult yet due to not knowing exact day but don't want to be insulting when I do contact somebody...
@@vicbunn1215 I'd say most of that depends on the artist. some only take cash, some do hourly, some price by piece. I don't think asking how they do payment is rude at all, but asking how much up front would be. I usually tip the same way I do servers (20% minimum). they're not required, but it shows satisfaction with their service. in your consult they should go over most of this so you have a better idea what to expect
@Kalin Elizabeth LaPlace Holy hell, 20%!? You'd throw someone 100 bones for a $500 piece? Absolutely not. I recently had a consult with a guy who charges $3500 per session (7-8 hours). I'll be god damned if I'm forking over $700 as a tip. Lol
One of my favorite tattoos came from me telling my artist that he has free range to do whatever he wanted. I wanted a lily and a lotus and he created a beautiful design and I swear it was so much fun to see his creativity come out to play 😁
Same. I gave the artist 2 reference pics of the basic subject I wanted (Assassins creed logo/Anhk) under "ripped skin" the rest was left to her imagination.
Hey man! Love the videos, watched every single one. If I could make 1 suggestion, maybe show a picture of what you're talking about? For example, at 6:18, you talk about traditional tattoos. I think it could really help some people out if you showed a picture or 2 of a traditional tattoos. Other than that, great video. Keep it up man!
thx for the input. i'll try to inlcude more pics of tattoos when i'm talking about styles. it's tough though because i gotta use my own tattoos so that i don't get roasted for copy write infringement, and the amount of traditional tattoos i have done is in limited supply. ppl had this same feedback on my white ink tattoos video, but the thing is, i've never photographed any of the white ink tattoos i've done cuz they were just little bangers that i didn't plan on archiving. it's a weird conundrum
Obviously not a complete solution, but would the other artists in your shop be open to you using images of their works? Specifically for styles you don't usually do. Crediting them wouldn't be much more difficult than adding the images. I appreciate the videos and the knowledge. Please keep creating!
@@JamesWithee so long as you credit the artist on screen it should be fine. Discussing work, especially for review or education, falls under fair use copyright law.
I was laughing when you said that you dont like when people come in and dont have an idea for a tattoo and expect you to come up with it, even though you dont know them. That's understandable. Just started watching your channel, good video man.
So much good advice here. I tell my artist the elements I’d like and the location on my body, that’s it. She is the artist, I let her do the art. So far her drawings have been better than what I was thinking. Dig the intro!
I didn't (or couldn"t) have a consultation with my artist (a quite famous one even), i was told by the manager to send all my ideas and the design would be shown on the day itself. I was sceptical and boy was i right, he drawed up a design that morning and showed it to me. He didn't look at any of my notes (which were all totally in his style), he just made a quick copy -or slightly different to what he made before. Good to say i walked out of it. Now im on to find an artist whom can draw up something beforehand and with whom i can have an actual consultation, be it from distance.
These videos usually take double the normal time because I start getting distracted by the comments and have to rewind the video every 3 minutes to hear what I missed 😂
Thanks for this. It's really informative, especially for tattoo newbies. I've only got the one and I'd done enough research to make the consultation for it go kind of ok, but with your info I'd have felt a lot less awkward and unsure. I'm going to feel a lot more clued up and prepared for the next one, so thanks for sharing your expertise and advice.
These videos are so useful and well explained. It's very hard to find good resources to even know where to start research for a tattoo, and this channel is super helpful. This video specifically is great to help anyone thinking of a tattoo to help put their thoughts in order and find a place to start. Other videos of yours simply and in detail explained things like color theory better than I've ever heard, even from great art teachers. Thank you for putting in the time and effort to give us all kinds of information!
no problem. i have some experience with teaching and public speaking, so i think that helps me organize everything and keep it concise. glad to hear my methods are well received
Very informative. Have been considering getting a tattoo for like a year now. And this video and your other video you talk about levels of pain definitely helped me a lot. Thanks.
Tattooers in some places I've seen around; They add the consultation in the cost of tattoo and just make it look like it's free. Example: You get a tattoo that took two hours (ish) and the cost is oddly priced. $345 and they tell you it's $150 an hour; The $45 is the consultiation fee.
Perfect, I have a consultation next week! Also, I really enjoy your videos! I've been watching every now and again for a couple of weeks but now i finally subscribed. Best of luck, I think you can go far!
love your videos. I have 6 tattoos and just started on my arms. I find those to not be so painful, kind of like a hot cat scratch. Keep up the good informative vids.
Bro you make the best tatoo information videos..getting my first tattoo in 3 weeks and I can't wait..your videos help me a ton with good client etiquette
Another great video! Thanks for telling new folks what they need to know. Even us tatted up, old farts can learn from your vids. It's nice that info is out there now. Many of us jumped in with only knowledge passed on by someone in our life with ink. It was so behind closed doors back then. I'm happy that is no longer the case!!!
Hello! Recently discovered your channel since I've been thinking about getting a tattoo some time next year and I love it! It's all very informative and straight to the point, no bs, and actual good advice for many of my concerns. I was actually wondering if you could tell me or do a small video about commissioning tattoo artists for a design (because I have no artistic talent). Some of my main concerns are about what to say and how much it would cost just for that commission alone, as well as what to do if you end up not liking the design or want a different one. And if I should tip/how much should I tip for that commission (and maybe tip in general for tattoos). Thank you so much for your time and for making an awesome and informative channel!
Thanks for the video. Getting my first one done and I had no idea how expensive it can get for a half sleeve. I'm going for a realism Tattoo and I want the very best tattoo possible. I can always plan more sessions to get all the details done
Nothing wrong with not knowing what you want and take your time in deciding, but don't waste an artists time trying to figure that out. It took me 20 years to decide on what I REALLY wanted. I always knew I wanted a tattoo and had seen people with my skin tone that had some pretty crappy tattoos and I always knew there was something better. Many people I saw would get color tattoos and the colors would muddy with our beautiful melanin. I knew i didn't want to look up a year or two later and be mad. Not to mention I hadn't lived much. It took me going through things and surviving them before I decided on a pretty sexy flower thigh tattoo to demonstrate that I finally found my self confidence. And clothing...don't wear tight clothes ladies. Think loose and flowy. Also don't wear your club clothes or Sunday best. I wore lounge pants with some tiny booty shorts I could pull and tape up to give the artist access to my hip and thigh for my tattoo. I wasn't comfortable wearing booty shorts outside in NM in March so I wore the loose pants to cover the shorts when going to akd from the studio. But be comfy and make it easy on yourself and the artist.
I talked to the guy as a walk in and looked ta his portfolio. I was 100% sure what I wanted done, and where before I walked in. Shown him the picture first of the idea, half an hour later told him to book me and I'll bring my graphic novel of the Joker I wanted done. The next day, he stencil the outlines which took him an hour to do, then 4 hours to get the black outlines and the black shadowing to be done. another 2 to 3 hours more to fill in the green hair face and rest of the colors. He said he didn't like the way he done the black, I thought he did a great job but he told to come back when healed for a free session to get a touch up on the black. I had a picture of the Joker on phone but allow him to use the book to use to stencil it out. By the way, the Joker picture I had on my phone was taken out of my book I own. No internet picture.
James, I truly learned from this video. You are very good at getting your point across completely. I would like to see a video re: "Tattoo Convention/expos." (Pricing differences, how to get what you want and to have a good consultation with the artist. How to make it optimal for all involved. ) I have had several artists tattoo me at Conventions, and I have been mostly happy, but looking to get more "bang for my buck," and make them feel very appreciated. Thanks, as always, BE WELL. 🍀🌺👩🎨🎨🖌💗🦓🌈 Liz in California
Got my consultation next week and I’m really excited. It’s my first tattoo and it’s a meaningful tattoo. I chose my tattoo artist over his Instagram and he’s really good, I just need his opinions and what he thinks is best as it’s my first.
Thanks for this video bro, I'm using it to prepare for for setting up a consultation with Carl Grace. I'm about to wait a while for an appointment. and be poor.. but I want something nasty.
This is a helpful video as I have a tattoo consultation tomorrow for a sleeve on my left arm I’m planning on getting and the first thing I wanna know is how much will it cost so I’m prepared
Would like to cover up scar on sternum. Having trouble coming up with ideas because it may not work well disguising. Any suggestions on what kind of artwork?
I an artist. I draw and my main subject matter is cars, people, and animals. Whenever I post something on Facebook, it's inevitable that someone will ask me to "draw a tattoo" for them (I presume they mean "design a tattoo"). I keep telling them that my drawings will not translate well into ink on skin. Is there anything you can advise me to tell them (or post) that will get people to quit asking me? It happens multiple times a day and it drives me nucking FUTS, LOL.
Possible next video be regarding aftercare? I just started watching your videos as I'm about to undergo this process (first tattoo) and your videos are clearly some of the best out there content wise.
I just emailed the guy and showed a few pictures with short explanation of what i want and he said okay put deposit and apaointment to get tattooed was set
You give some of the best tattoo advice on TH-cam, keep it up man! I got a question myself.... so for someone in the fitness industry who doesn’t want to hide too much muscle definition, where would you suggest a good spot is to get one? Deltoid, pec, half sleeve etc. thanks man!
lol i think you could. but it prolly wouldn't heal well cuz there are so many capillaries under there. my guess is it would be very blurry so if u do it you gotta get something REALLY simple and legible
Great video again, thanks! I've got four tattoos already; two have gone well two haven't and whilst I'm cool with all of them I feel so much more clued up and confident since watching your videos I'm looking forward to my next one. A question if you don't mind, what's your opinion on water colouring? Do they last, how do they age? Thanks again :)
Is it bad if i have more then one artist i want a consultation with? I couldn't decide between the two that i think would be perfect for the design i drew out 😅
It depends. If you're just getting some palm sized or smaller piece yea tell them your budget 1st. If you're getting a piece because you want to get a tattoo by a certain artist then it can come at the end of the consultation because you'll be willing to save up and make sure you can afford it. Depends on style too if it's a simple traditional piece they'll be more likely to know how long it'll take opposed to a portrait or realism
I think if price is a concern but you really like the artist be a respnsible adult and just tell them: "look, I really want your work but I dont currently have enough to pay for it." Save up some extra money and come back when youre ready. When i was looking at the caliber of artists i really liked it seemed as though all of them had a $200 per hour rate. So I decided that if I wanted to get my upper arm done and it was going to take about 6 hours to complete I would save up at least $1,200 before consulting an artist. And then when I had my money right I got my arm done. ✔
What should i do If I created a design for a tattoo? is it taboo to bring in a completed original design that i want to get on me? Not sure what the Etiquette is on that.
It's totally okay to do that, but whether or not the artist wants to tattoo it is totally up to him. Some guys / gals only like to do their own stuff. Some aren't very particular about it. But you're not being rude by bringing your own drawing. Just make sure to keep an open mind if they suggest changes in order to make it more tattooable
@@JamesWithee thanks so much! I designed it as a tattoo but obviously my artist will know more than me about what would look good on the body. I'll keep an open mind !
I'm here to ask a question I've been wondering about but have been to shy to ask about in person. I've heard some people say that a good tip is to ask for a Henna tattoo or something to see if you like having it on your body for an extended period of time. That way it forces you out of the "honeymoon phase" so to speak and if you still like it after a month or so, you can get it done for real. Is this a thing? Or is it really shooting in the dark when you're getting a tattoo?
test drive with henna? i've heard of it. but it's pretty extreme in my opinion. getting tattooed is inherently risky behavior. if you're uncomfortable with that risk to such a high degree then you shouldn't get a tattoo
@@JamesWithee Hm, okay. I've just been a little sketched out on where I would want to get the tattoo since I'm a bit overweight. I'm going to get one no matter what, I was just wanting to explore all of the possibilities. Thanks!
I agree with him. If you are wishy washy about the tattoo..your not ready. Its a lifelong commitment. Its easier to get a divorce in some instance than getting rid of a tattoo. Also keep in mind your always evolving. So certain tattoos you might see as a huge mistake later on. My advice is save up for a great quality tattoo and do your research on artists . So when you are ready you CANT WAIT WITH ZERO DOUBT THAT DESIGN IS WHAT YOU WANT🤗
Hey James, so Iv gotten a pretty nice cursive font before on my forearm from my tattoo artist 9 years ago and its still pretty damn good looking. However, now im thinking about the sleeve and My thing is, with images, I just would like a tattoo artist to show me a good sketch of it before hand, maybe even a sketch or multiple of how it would look on the arm itself. I feel like what I usually see is a rough sketch and not much shading when I look at other people getting sleeves, sometimes I dont even see them be shown an image they just give ideas. Im kinda talking outa my ass since I having gotten those types of tats before, but usually I get the vibe that they just show u a stencil before you get your tat and you kinda have to agree right then. Is it a pain in the ass for them to do this? I feel like that's reasonable. The one guy I went to is amazing at realistic stuff which is what I like, but his sleeve flow to me is questionable, whereas there is another dude who's flow with negative spacing and combining imagines is nice, but I don't think his skill at realistic ish tats are totally his strength, and since my ideas are unique I can give references to the style but not so much to the exact image, I find alot of tattoo artists fall apart when it comes to they themselves coming up with original images that look realistic on their own, I find its usually cartoony or the proportions are off or shading etc. So is it reasonable to expect them before I guarantee to work with them, to show me a good sketch? Possibly with shading and some texture?
Is it irksome to have clients change their idea and location after the consult? My lady hasn't acknowledged my changes yet and we're about 2 weeks away. I'm fixing to go in the shop and say hi.
changing location usually isn't that big of a deal as long as there is plenty of notice and the new location doesn't fuck anything up design wise. changing the idea, however, is bad etiquette. tattoo artists aren't obligated to do every tattoo that is requested of them, and when an artist schedules an appointment with you, you are entering an agreement for a specific concept. if you change your idea, there is no guarantee that the artist would have taken on the project if you had come to them with that idea in the first place. it also wastes pretty much all the time spent on the initial consult because now they have to discuss an entirely different tattoo with you. that waste of time could've been avoided if you had your shit together on your end in terms of knowing what you want ahead of time. so yeah, it's on the list of things that bad clients do. of course there are degrees to how big of a deal or how annoying this kind of situation can be. if you go to a restaurant and order steak, but then change your mind and say that you want pasta 60 seconds later, it's not that bad. but if it's been 10 mins... well... you get the idea. some tattoo artists will refuse to do the new tattoo idea and also keep your deposit in this situation, and it's well within their rights to do so professionally. if your artist works with you on it though, be sure to thank them
Maybe. I don't think length of the consult matters as much as the difference between the ideas. If the original idea is similar to the new idea, then it's not that bad. If it's something totally different though, it can be a pain for the artist to tell the client they don't wanna take on the new project or to suck it up and just do something they didn't agree to to avoid a confrontation
i wouldn't get one unless you are one of those peeps that just has tattoos everywhere. they usually heal up blurry because of all the capillaries in the mouth (the ink spreads)
I had a consultation a few weeks ago and the artist was a sweetheart. She sketched my idea, had a bomb idea of placement and even stenciled her sketch to visualize her placement. Basically she improved what i wanted and went above and beyond for me. So excited for my appointment with her
How did it go?
As someone who already has tattoos, this was still helpful. I've only had really basic email consultations and still struggle with bringing up price because I don't wanna sound like I'm trying to underpay them.
I've watched many tattoo videos and some have said that it is insulting to ask the price to get your tattoo once you have settled on what you want. Also, some have said cash only..... I would be traveling to the tattoo location and can't go in and pay a deposit and don't really like to carry a lot of cash. Is it insulting to ask to pay the deposit with cc and to pay up at the end with a cc? I have not had a consult yet due to not knowing exact day but don't want to be insulting when I do contact somebody...
Also, should you tip over and above the price of the tattoo?
@@vicbunn1215 I'd say most of that depends on the artist. some only take cash, some do hourly, some price by piece. I don't think asking how they do payment is rude at all, but asking how much up front would be. I usually tip the same way I do servers (20% minimum). they're not required, but it shows satisfaction with their service. in your consult they should go over most of this so you have a better idea what to expect
@@kalinelizabeth 20% tip is a extreme amount
@Kalin Elizabeth LaPlace Holy hell, 20%!? You'd throw someone 100 bones for a $500 piece? Absolutely not. I recently had a consult with a guy who charges $3500 per session (7-8 hours). I'll be god damned if I'm forking over $700 as a tip. Lol
constant snappy relevant information for 19 mins = a crazy informative video, nice job dude keep it up!
lol thx ewan. i'm always self conscious that my videos are too long. i put conscious effort into keeping them concise but complete
as long as its concise and comprehensive dw about the length
James Withee you do one hell of a job making great quality content, the longer videos are great,
It’d be cool if you included a “tattoo of the day” or something to show work off
seconded, by the way why am I watching this video AFTER getting my tattoos? xD
Yes!!! I want to see what tattoo artists see as a perfectly executed tattoo.
One of my favorite tattoos came from me telling my artist that he has free range to do whatever he wanted. I wanted a lily and a lotus and he created a beautiful design and I swear it was so much fun to see his creativity come out to play 😁
Same. I gave the artist 2 reference pics of the basic subject I wanted (Assassins creed logo/Anhk) under "ripped skin" the rest was left to her imagination.
I did this too!! I said take some space and do what you want. I am getting another big another one and said the same thing.
Hey man! Love the videos, watched every single one. If I could make 1 suggestion, maybe show a picture of what you're talking about? For example, at 6:18, you talk about traditional tattoos. I think it could really help some people out if you showed a picture or 2 of a traditional tattoos. Other than that, great video. Keep it up man!
thx for the input. i'll try to inlcude more pics of tattoos when i'm talking about styles. it's tough though because i gotta use my own tattoos so that i don't get roasted for copy write infringement, and the amount of traditional tattoos i have done is in limited supply. ppl had this same feedback on my white ink tattoos video, but the thing is, i've never photographed any of the white ink tattoos i've done cuz they were just little bangers that i didn't plan on archiving. it's a weird conundrum
Obviously not a complete solution, but would the other artists in your shop be open to you using images of their works? Specifically for styles you don't usually do. Crediting them wouldn't be much more difficult than adding the images.
I appreciate the videos and the knowledge. Please keep creating!
@@JamesWithee so long as you credit the artist on screen it should be fine. Discussing work, especially for review or education, falls under fair use copyright law.
Yes, agreed, definitely need more video input. The man talks sense but we’re visually stimulated creatures.
I was laughing when you said that you dont like when people come in and dont have an idea for a tattoo and expect you to come up with it, even though you dont know them. That's understandable. Just started watching your channel, good video man.
So much good advice here. I tell my artist the elements I’d like and the location on my body, that’s it. She is the artist, I let her do the art. So far her drawings have been better than what I was thinking.
Dig the intro!
Love the advice! I've gotten my first tattoo awhile ago and I followed your advice! It went very smoothly
hell ya i'm glad my videos helped you out. thx for watching
I didn't (or couldn"t) have a consultation with my artist (a quite famous one even), i was told by the manager to send all my ideas and the design would be shown on the day itself. I was sceptical and boy was i right, he drawed up a design that morning and showed it to me. He didn't look at any of my notes (which were all totally in his style), he just made a quick copy -or slightly different to what he made before. Good to say i walked out of it. Now im on to find an artist whom can draw up something beforehand and with whom i can have an actual consultation, be it from distance.
These videos usually take double the normal time because I start getting distracted by the comments and have to rewind the video every 3 minutes to hear what I missed 😂
Haha thanks for watching the whole thing
saaammmeee
Thanks for this. It's really informative, especially for tattoo newbies. I've only got the one and I'd done enough research to make the consultation for it go kind of ok, but with your info I'd have felt a lot less awkward and unsure. I'm going to feel a lot more clued up and prepared for the next one, so thanks for sharing your expertise and advice.
thx for watching simon
I'm so happy you did a consultation video! I'm having one tomorrow to start my leg sleeve! Very useful information 👌🏼 Thank you
Ooh! This couldn't have come at a better time. As always thanks dude! And cool intro! 💖
no problem! thx for watching maria
Wow 19 mins of useful information delivered very professionally and concise, you sir are great at these videos!
These videos are so useful and well explained. It's very hard to find good resources to even know where to start research for a tattoo, and this channel is super helpful. This video specifically is great to help anyone thinking of a tattoo to help put their thoughts in order and find a place to start. Other videos of yours simply and in detail explained things like color theory better than I've ever heard, even from great art teachers. Thank you for putting in the time and effort to give us all kinds of information!
no problem. i have some experience with teaching and public speaking, so i think that helps me organize everything and keep it concise. glad to hear my methods are well received
Very informative. Have been considering getting a tattoo for like a year now. And this video and your other video you talk about levels of pain definitely helped me a lot. Thanks.
Getting my first tattoo next week excited and nervous at the same time
Tattooers in some places I've seen around;
They add the consultation in the cost of tattoo and just make it look like it's free.
Example:
You get a tattoo that took two hours (ish)
and the cost is oddly priced.
$345 and they tell you it's $150 an hour;
The $45 is the consultiation fee.
this guy should have more subs
I always have a great time with my regular tattoo artist. He is easy for me to contact and he always has a way of making my base idea better.
I just picked up a bunch of knowledge from your video. You are straight to the point. Well done and wish you all the best brotha
Perfect, I have a consultation next week! Also, I really enjoy your videos! I've been watching every now and again for a couple of weeks but now i finally subscribed. Best of luck, I think you can go far!
thx for the sub!
Thanks! Going in tomorrow for my leg sleeve consultation.
You can get something the artist really wants to do by asking them what style they like doing most, etc. To narrow it down
I would seriously love information about cover up tattoos how to find a artist and what kind of things should I know before hand
Love the new intro!!
thanks lol i worked on it for like 6 hours yesterday
@@JamesWithee it definitely paid off. Keep up the great work!
Didn’t know Billy Loomis was tattooing now 🤔 jkjkjk, thanks so much for the video you’re awesome!!
Bro this is so dope your wearing a west Phoenix Tattoo supply shirt! My family owns that shop
Those are the homies!
love your videos. I have 6 tattoos and just started on my arms. I find those to not be so painful, kind of like a hot cat scratch. Keep up the good informative vids.
I cannot explain how much this reduced my anxiety.
Bro you make the best tatoo information videos..getting my first tattoo in 3 weeks and I can't wait..your videos help me a ton with good client etiquette
Have a consultation tmrw getting my first tatto.
Please make a video with advice on how to craft a sleeve! Thanks!
You make such informative videos!! Definitely one of my favorite tattoo-related channels.
thanks for watching, kiana!
Hey, your channel helped me a lot with getting my first tattoo a couple of days ago, thank you :) Still will be watching of course
nice, glad i could help
You talk like a professional! Thank YOU!
Another great video! Thanks for telling new folks what they need to know. Even us tatted up, old farts can learn from your vids. It's nice that info is out there now. Many of us jumped in with only knowledge passed on by someone in our life with ink. It was so behind closed doors back then. I'm happy that is no longer the case!!!
your videos are a great resource. tysm !
Hello! Recently discovered your channel since I've been thinking about getting a tattoo some time next year and I love it! It's all very informative and straight to the point, no bs, and actual good advice for many of my concerns. I was actually wondering if you could tell me or do a small video about commissioning tattoo artists for a design (because I have no artistic talent). Some of my main concerns are about what to say and how much it would cost just for that commission alone, as well as what to do if you end up not liking the design or want a different one. And if I should tip/how much should I tip for that commission (and maybe tip in general for tattoos). Thank you so much for your time and for making an awesome and informative channel!
thanks have a better sense of what it is now my consultation is on Saturday so hopefully it all works out
thank you so much for this information. it helped me out so much. I'm an overthinker, this simplified everything for me.
This helped so much !!! Lol I’m waiting for August 10th to finish up my full sleeve ! 😊
Thanks for the video. Getting my first one done and I had no idea how expensive it can get for a half sleeve. I'm going for a realism Tattoo and I want the very best tattoo possible. I can always plan more sessions to get all the details done
Nothing wrong with not knowing what you want and take your time in deciding, but don't waste an artists time trying to figure that out. It took me 20 years to decide on what I REALLY wanted. I always knew I wanted a tattoo and had seen people with my skin tone that had some pretty crappy tattoos and I always knew there was something better. Many people I saw would get color tattoos and the colors would muddy with our beautiful melanin. I knew i didn't want to look up a year or two later and be mad. Not to mention I hadn't lived much. It took me going through things and surviving them before I decided on a pretty sexy flower thigh tattoo to demonstrate that I finally found my self confidence.
And clothing...don't wear tight clothes ladies. Think loose and flowy. Also don't wear your club clothes or Sunday best. I wore lounge pants with some tiny booty shorts I could pull and tape up to give the artist access to my hip and thigh for my tattoo. I wasn't comfortable wearing booty shorts outside in NM in March so I wore the loose pants to cover the shorts when going to akd from the studio. But be comfy and make it easy on yourself and the artist.
Keep up the great work this video was super informative !
I had to comeback and refresh on this cause I have a consultation in the morning 😁😁😁 so excited, I haven't been tatted in yeara
Very informing thanks. Please do aftercare for tattoos vid, thanks
I talked to the guy as a walk in and looked ta his portfolio. I was 100% sure what I wanted done, and where before I walked in. Shown him the picture first of the idea, half an hour later told him to book me and I'll bring my graphic novel of the Joker I wanted done. The next day, he stencil the outlines which took him an hour to do, then 4 hours to get the black outlines and the black shadowing to be done. another 2 to 3 hours more to fill in the green hair face and rest of the colors. He said he didn't like the way he done the black, I thought he did a great job but he told to come back when healed for a free session to get a touch up on the black. I had a picture of the Joker on phone but allow him to use the book to use to stencil it out. By the way, the Joker picture I had on my phone was taken out of my book I own. No internet picture.
James, I truly learned from this video. You are very good at getting your point across completely.
I would like to see a video re: "Tattoo Convention/expos." (Pricing differences, how to get what you want and to have a good consultation with the artist.
How to make it optimal for all involved. )
I have had several artists tattoo me at Conventions, and I have been mostly happy, but looking to get more "bang for my buck," and make them feel very appreciated.
Thanks, as always, BE WELL. 🍀🌺👩🎨🎨🖌💗🦓🌈 Liz in California
Got my consultation next week and I’m really excited. It’s my first tattoo and it’s a meaningful tattoo. I chose my tattoo artist over his Instagram and he’s really good, I just need his opinions and what he thinks is best as it’s my first.
Very informative video. Perhaps you can do one showing different artistic styles of tattoos.
Ur channel is so helpful thank you❣️
the Mr.beast of tattoo videos
Another good video man, keep at it.
Been watching some of your videos so far and they've been informative and super helpful. I'm about to get my first tattoo. Thanks so much! Subscribed!
You should have a LOT more subscribers. Great content!
Nice Video! I like thin lineart tattoos and I know what I want, but I am still debating the place I want to get it.
Such great info! I wish I saw this video before I got my first tat.
great video mate very informative.
Very helpful. Thanks!
Thank you, James! This was very helpful! 💕
Thanks for this video bro, I'm using it to prepare for for setting up a consultation with Carl Grace. I'm about to wait a while for an appointment. and be poor.. but I want something nasty.
I usually pay $200 deposit where I have Tattoos in Canada 🇨🇦. James you are an amazing speaker very informative videos. Could you do one on placement?
Didn’t know you were in the Phx area till I saw your shirt, nice
We outchea I’m from east Mesa bro 😎
@@JamesWithee Right on brotha, if I hadn’t already scheduled an appointment for my chest piece, I would’ve gone to you guys 🤘🏽
I'm loving the new intro!! ✊🏽
Leaving a comment because you're awesome James
thanks :)
Can you do a video regarding tattoos on stretch marks and scars
This is a helpful video as I have a tattoo consultation tomorrow for a sleeve on my left arm I’m planning on getting and the first thing I wanna know is how much will it cost so I’m prepared
Love the video super useful; the intro was alittle on the long side tho.
Love the new intro dude, it's really nice!! :>
thx! it was really hard to make. i'm a newb at video editing
Would like to cover up scar on sternum. Having trouble coming up with ideas because it may not work well disguising. Any suggestions on what kind of artwork?
Awesome stuff dude!
Love the videos man!
I am getting my tattoo December 13 2019 I'm excited
I an artist. I draw and my main subject matter is cars, people, and animals. Whenever I post something on Facebook, it's inevitable that someone will ask me to "draw a tattoo" for them (I presume they mean "design a tattoo"). I keep telling them that my drawings will not translate well into ink on skin. Is there anything you can advise me to tell them (or post) that will get people to quit asking me? It happens multiple times a day and it drives me nucking FUTS, LOL.
Maybe have a "not a tattoo artist so designs on skin will not be the same as on paper" disclaimer on your social media pages?
Possible next video be regarding aftercare?
I just started watching your videos as I'm about to undergo this process (first tattoo) and your videos are clearly some of the best out there content wise.
i'm working on an aftercare series right now. the first video isn't the next one i'm going to release though
I just emailed the guy and showed a few pictures with short explanation of what i want and he said okay put deposit and apaointment to get tattooed was set
Idea. Reference pictures. Size. Location. Photo of area.
You give some of the best tattoo advice on TH-cam, keep it up man! I got a question myself.... so for someone in the fitness industry who doesn’t want to hide too much muscle definition, where would you suggest a good spot is to get one? Deltoid, pec, half sleeve etc. thanks man!
In theory, if your toenail fell off and the skin underneath was exposed, could you tattoo that skin and when the nail grows back the ink is visible?
lol i think you could. but it prolly wouldn't heal well cuz there are so many capillaries under there. my guess is it would be very blurry so if u do it you gotta get something REALLY simple and legible
Lmao
@PurpleGoomy an interesting question that probably intrigues tattoo artists just bc they've never thought of it before
Consultations cost money in Croatia in some studios
Great video again, thanks! I've got four tattoos already; two have gone well two haven't and whilst I'm cool with all of them I feel so much more clued up and confident since watching your videos I'm looking forward to my next one. A question if you don't mind, what's your opinion on water colouring? Do they last, how do they age? Thanks again :)
i'll make a vid about water color tattoos. they can last but it depends on how they're done
That would be really cool, thanks!
GREAT VIDEO, plain and simple.
Can you tattoo over a birthmark?
Excellent advice
Great job, especially for it to all be one take. 👌
Is it okay for a client to ask to see some of the artist other pieces they have done in the past if there isn’t any on the shops page
Is it bad if i have more then one artist i want a consultation with? I couldn't decide between the two that i think would be perfect for the design i drew out 😅
Consulting with multiple artists is totally fine. Gotta be sure u got the right person before making a commitment
I feel like its such a waste of time for both people to not be upfront about the budget
It depends. If you're just getting some palm sized or smaller piece yea tell them your budget 1st. If you're getting a piece because you want to get a tattoo by a certain artist then it can come at the end of the consultation because you'll be willing to save up and make sure you can afford it. Depends on style too if it's a simple traditional piece they'll be more likely to know how long it'll take opposed to a portrait or realism
I have liked your videos very much💙
Please make a video on wrist tattoo🙇🙇🙇🙇🙇
I think if price is a concern but you really like the artist be a respnsible adult and just tell them: "look, I really want your work but I dont currently have enough to pay for it." Save up some extra money and come back when youre ready. When i was looking at the caliber of artists i really liked it seemed as though all of them had a $200 per hour rate. So I decided that if I wanted to get my upper arm done and it was going to take about 6 hours to complete I would save up at least $1,200 before consulting an artist. And then when I had my money right I got my arm done. ✔
Thanks James
What should i do If I created a design for a tattoo? is it taboo to bring in a completed original design that i want to get on me? Not sure what the Etiquette is on that.
It's totally okay to do that, but whether or not the artist wants to tattoo it is totally up to him. Some guys / gals only like to do their own stuff. Some aren't very particular about it. But you're not being rude by bringing your own drawing. Just make sure to keep an open mind if they suggest changes in order to make it more tattooable
@@JamesWithee thanks so much! I designed it as a tattoo but obviously my artist will know more than me about what would look good on the body. I'll keep an open mind !
I'm here to ask a question I've been wondering about but have been to shy to ask about in person. I've heard some people say that a good tip is to ask for a Henna tattoo or something to see if you like having it on your body for an extended period of time. That way it forces you out of the "honeymoon phase" so to speak and if you still like it after a month or so, you can get it done for real.
Is this a thing? Or is it really shooting in the dark when you're getting a tattoo?
test drive with henna? i've heard of it. but it's pretty extreme in my opinion. getting tattooed is inherently risky behavior. if you're uncomfortable with that risk to such a high degree then you shouldn't get a tattoo
@@JamesWithee Hm, okay. I've just been a little sketched out on where I would want to get the tattoo since I'm a bit overweight. I'm going to get one no matter what, I was just wanting to explore all of the possibilities. Thanks!
I agree with him. If you are wishy washy about the tattoo..your not ready. Its a lifelong commitment. Its easier to get a divorce in some instance than getting rid of a tattoo. Also keep in mind your always evolving. So certain tattoos you might see as a huge mistake later on. My advice is save up for a great quality tattoo and do your research on artists . So when you are ready you CANT WAIT WITH ZERO DOUBT THAT DESIGN IS WHAT YOU WANT🤗
Hey James, so Iv gotten a pretty nice cursive font before on my forearm from my tattoo artist 9 years ago and its still pretty damn good looking. However, now im thinking about the sleeve and My thing is, with images, I just would like a tattoo artist to show me a good sketch of it before hand, maybe even a sketch or multiple of how it would look on the arm itself. I feel like what I usually see is a rough sketch and not much shading when I look at other people getting sleeves, sometimes I dont even see them be shown an image they just give ideas. Im kinda talking outa my ass since I having gotten those types of tats before, but usually I get the vibe that they just show u a stencil before you get your tat and you kinda have to agree right then. Is it a pain in the ass for them to do this? I feel like that's reasonable. The one guy I went to is amazing at realistic stuff which is what I like, but his sleeve flow to me is questionable, whereas there is another dude who's flow with negative spacing and combining imagines is nice, but I don't think his skill at realistic ish tats are totally his strength, and since my ideas are unique I can give references to the style but not so much to the exact image, I find alot of tattoo artists fall apart when it comes to they themselves coming up with original images that look realistic on their own, I find its usually cartoony or the proportions are off or shading etc. So is it reasonable to expect them before I guarantee to work with them, to show me a good sketch? Possibly with shading and some texture?
Where are you located?
Any tips on consulting different artist in the same shop if im not sure in what style i want my tattoo in?
Is it irksome to have clients change their idea and location after the consult? My lady hasn't acknowledged my changes yet and we're about 2 weeks away. I'm fixing to go in the shop and say hi.
changing location usually isn't that big of a deal as long as there is plenty of notice and the new location doesn't fuck anything up design wise. changing the idea, however, is bad etiquette. tattoo artists aren't obligated to do every tattoo that is requested of them, and when an artist schedules an appointment with you, you are entering an agreement for a specific concept. if you change your idea, there is no guarantee that the artist would have taken on the project if you had come to them with that idea in the first place. it also wastes pretty much all the time spent on the initial consult because now they have to discuss an entirely different tattoo with you. that waste of time could've been avoided if you had your shit together on your end in terms of knowing what you want ahead of time. so yeah, it's on the list of things that bad clients do. of course there are degrees to how big of a deal or how annoying this kind of situation can be. if you go to a restaurant and order steak, but then change your mind and say that you want pasta 60 seconds later, it's not that bad. but if it's been 10 mins... well... you get the idea. some tattoo artists will refuse to do the new tattoo idea and also keep your deposit in this situation, and it's well within their rights to do so professionally. if your artist works with you on it though, be sure to thank them
James Withee ew. Whoops. Does it make a difference if my consult lasted 5 minutes?
Maybe. I don't think length of the consult matters as much as the difference between the ideas. If the original idea is similar to the new idea, then it's not that bad. If it's something totally different though, it can be a pain for the artist to tell the client they don't wanna take on the new project or to suck it up and just do something they didn't agree to to avoid a confrontation
Thanks
Can you please do a video on lip tatoos or message me about the risks of getting one? Thank a lot!
i wouldn't get one unless you are one of those peeps that just has tattoos everywhere. they usually heal up blurry because of all the capillaries in the mouth (the ink spreads)
@@JamesWithee thanks!