tips for getting tattooed for the first time

eat something before you come in! keep your blood sugar up- especially if you know you get faint/lightheaded easily. passing out isn't at all common but it can happen! set yourself up for success.

do not- DO NOT bring 2+ friends. do not bring controlling people. do not bring people who will speak over you or give you unsolicited advice. artists can tell from the moment we start talking to you if your guest is going to pose an issue and negatively impact your session.

a lot of artists will step in and redirect control/attention to you if your guest begins to overstep. avoid this (it puts the artist in an uncomfortable spot) by bringing someone kind and supportive with you IF you need them to. i find it's always best to come alone if u can

know what you want but be open to change/adjustment/artistic interpretation. your artist will not (should not) carbon copy the reference photo(s) you show them (unless it's like, an outline of a heart or something). your tattoo will be custom, made for you, and you should go to-

-an artist who you'd be comfortable giving artistic freedom to. good tattoos don't come from micromanaging- find an artist you like, give them your ideas/concept, and let them do the rest. it's a collaboration of sorts- speak up about things you feel could be tweaked. but do not-

i would always recommend having your first time be a scheduled appointment. this gives you and your tattooer time to prepare and take extra time and care. walk-ins are okay but i find these situations are usually more stressful for people who haven't been tattooed before.

you will need a photo ID (drivers license, state issued ID, or passport). at most tattoo shops, cash is preferred but some shops take card. it's a shop by shop basis- sometimes an artist by artist basis. don't assume- ask!

tipping- is it mandatory? no. should you do it? yes. i would say 20%- akin to other service jobs. if you have a $100 tattoo, be prepared to tip $20+. did your tattooer go above and beyond? don't be shy, tip some more!

understand tattooers rates. we do not make 100% of the money we charge. if you cannot afford someone's rates, that's okay! "that's out of my budget but i'll be back when i can afford it!" is an okay thing to say. most tattooers will work with your budget if it's reasonable!!

dress intentionally, dress comfortably!! if you're getting something on your thigh, it might not be the best idea to wear skinny jeans. you can always bring clothes to change into- think about where your tattoo is and make sure it can be made accessible to the artist