If you're thinking of getting a tattoo for the first time, there's some important aspects of the experience and procedure to consider when making this decision.
Let's a take a look at the most important points and discuss them! Get something original is more fun.
A lot of times when going in for a tattoo for the first time, it's very tempting to simply look through the books and books of flash art provided by the tattoo parlor, pick something, and then walk out shortly thereafter with some new ink.
This is probably the most boring route to getting a tattoo! The artists usually feel the same way.
It's kinda like going to a fine restaurant where you can get something off the menu but if you wanted, all you'd have to do is ask and the chefs would happily prepare something unique, just for you.
Consider finding a piece of art, or a concept for a piece of art, that means something to you personally.
Talk to a tattoo artist and see what they think.
Tattoo artists thrive on making custom pieces.
Look at the artists portfolio to get a sense of their style, skill, and what's possible.
There's an amazing variety of techniques out there now.
Tattoo artists are doing amazing things with shading and coloring that just was not happening a few years.
You might not really have an idea of what's possible - if so, take a look at their portfolio.
This also servers a dual purpose; is this artist good enough to etch ink into your skin? You want to go into this confident that the tattoo is going to look great.
Knowing that the artist has a history of great work is the best way to do this.
Yes, it does hurt.
You have options though.
The best description I've heard to explain the pain involved in receiving a tattoo is that it's a lot like having a bad sunburn, and then getting pricked in that same spot.
Different parts of the body receive pain differently as well.
For instance, the side of the torso and the ribs are notoriously more painful than say, the arm or the upper back and shoulders.
Either way, there's actually some options on the table now for dealing with pain, and it doesn't involve drinking a 5th of liquor before going in either! A variety of numbing products are now available at most tattoo shops.
Simply put, if you want to pay extra for them, you can get a tattoo with very little or no pain.
Tattoo removal is possible, but don't think that way.
While it's fairly easy now to remove a tattoo, provided you have the money to throw at such a thing, it's best to look at this as a permanent, life long commitment.
Whatever you are getting inked into flesh is going to stay their for the rest of your life.
Chew on that for a little while before you get a tattoo.