A few important tips for choosing the right tattoo artist
It can feel like a jungle trying to figure out who should tattoo you when you’ve never been tattooed before and are completely new to the process. I can clearly remember how it was for me.
Find out which tattoo style appeals to You the most
First and foremost, it’s important to mention that this process definitely doesn’t need to be rushed—quite the opposite.
I spent two years researching at home before I got my first tattoo. It was crucial for me to choose the right style and the right artist for that particular style. At first, it felt overwhelming, and I didn’t know much about anything, but those two years of actively researching online helped me narrow down what resonated most with me.
I primarily used Google, Pinterest, and Instagram to explore different styles. I had an idea that I wanted something Japanese-inspired, but I didn’t limit myself to that. I explored virtually all styles—black and grey realism, traditional old-school, bio-organic, color realism—and only after thoroughly reviewing them all, I realized Japanese style was the right fit for me.
Everyone goes through this process, and everyone ends up with a different preference when it comes to style. The most important thing is to trust your instincts and not worry about what others think. After all, it’s your body, and the tattoo will be with you for the rest of your life.
The best tattoo artists are rarely just around the corner
Once you’ve figured out which style you like, the next step is finding an artist skilled in that specific style. This is where I can’t emphasize enough the importance of being willing to travel a little to get the best possible result.
Personally, I spent an hour and a half each way on public transport to get to Copenhagen and be tattooed by my first artist. I made that trip more than 40 times before eventually moving closer. It’s rare to find the right artist in your immediate area—unless you live in a major city like Copenhagen.
Compromising on quality just because you don’t feel like traveling an hour or so is rarely worth it. Remember, this is something that will stay on your body for the rest of your life.
Find an artist with high professional integrity
I was lucky that someone from my high school had a beautiful Japanese sleeve. He recommended three tattoo artists to me: Ron Koupal (who did his sleeve), Judd Ripley, and, last but not least, Henning Jørgensen.
After carefully reviewing the three, I found Judd’s style appealed to me the most. I booked a consultation with him and brought some printed reference images to illustrate what I wanted. When I showed them to him, his first comment on one of the pictures was, “If you want to get that kind of crap, it won’t be from me.”
At the time, I remember feeling a sinking sensation in my stomach, thinking, “Wow, I thought I’d been so thorough in my research!” But it quickly became clear that I didn’t know as much as I thought.
Luckily, I had other pictures that aligned more with what he considered a quality tattoo. That consultation led to my first tattoo: my entire left arm. Later, he went on to tattoo my entire upper body as well.
Listen to Your tattoo artist
So, what’s the point of the little story, you might wonder?
Choose a skilled tattoo artist with strong professional integrity, and respect that they know best when it comes to the technical aspects of tattooing.
I could just as easily have walked into a shop where someone would’ve simply done what I asked for, and I would’ve ended up with a terrible tattoo that I’d deeply regret today. No matter how good you think your idea for a tattoo is, it’s important to listen to the professional. After all, it’s in their best interest that you leave with the best possible tattoo.
Today, I’m incredibly grateful that I ended up with a talented tattoo artist who prioritized quality over profit, instead of someone who just wanted to make quick money and get me out the door as fast as possible.
I’m happy to help You find Your next tattoo artist
Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram if you need a referral to a skilled tattoo artist. I have extensive knowledge of the field since I work with tattoos daily and have had my entire body tattooed myself.
I’d be more than happy to help you find your next tattoo artist—whether you’re looking for a small fine line tattoo like the ones I create or something completely different. My goal is for everyone to get the best possible tattoo, whether it’s from me or someone else.
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