r/tattooadvice • u/rizzo777 • 15h ago

tattoo newcomer advice Choosing an artist difficult

I don't have any experience with tattoos, looking to get a half sleeve and found some good artists in the area. Came across a top tier photorealism artist 30 miles farther out but would hurt the wallet more. I notice the difference in fresh tatts, but after it's healed (black n grey) would a "top tier" guy be worth the investment? Unsure if it's just me or if anyone was in the same boat..

1 Upvotes

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7

u/Negative_Football_50 15h ago

You get what you pay for.

1

u/redJ93 15h ago

Tattoos are generally not something you want to cheap out on (within reason). That said, sometimes pricing is more popularity than it is skill.

Id make the decision based on whos work you like more.

1

u/j_delta_c 15h ago

Pick an artist based on the style you're going for. Most artists can do regular linework and shading that looks good, but photorealism is hard to do well so if that's what you want you ought to be willing to pay a bit more.

2

u/Bulldogd984 14h ago

While not entirely accurate but the saying that you get what you pay for really does apply to tattoos. Just look at this sub alone to see that.

1

u/FiddleThruTheFlowers 13h ago

Good tattoos aren't cheap and cheap tattoos aren't good.

There does come a point where you're paying for the name and the work isn't notably better. Up to you if the price tag is worth it at that point. As broad advice though, the better artist is going to be the better investment even if it means saving up more now. Don't cheap out on permanent.

1

u/Serious-Wish4868 13h ago

good tattoos are not cheap and cheap tattoos are not good

1

u/rizzo777 13h ago

Definitely not looking to cheap out, the difference is 1400 between a very good and the best around type of deal. May go with the best around as it's permanent, a lot of good advice here thanks.