There are tattoos that look good on paper. Some look even better as part of your skin. Realism tattoos are in this second category, but choosing the right subject can make a huge difference to the final result.
Realism tattoo designs are all about the small details. Facial expressions, shadows, textures, proportions, the way the light hits an object, etc., can all affect the realism of a tattoo. So before you walk into a tattoo studio with a dozen Pinterest screenshots, you should take a moment to choose a subject that works with both your idea and your skin.
Start With Something That Matters to You
Realistic tattoos take time, patience and lots of attention to detail. That makes it a subject worth thinking about.
A meaningful choice can be a family member, a cherished pet, a place that is memorable, a favourite flower or an object associated with an important memory. Portrait tattoos can also be a good idea for personal photographs, as long as the image is clear enough for the artist to see.
Think About the Detail Level
Realism is great for subjects with interesting textures and natural variation. An artist can find plenty to work with in animals, portraits, flowers, watches, eyes and some architectural details.
But small designs can be tricky. Fine details need to have enough room to stay clear as the tattoo ages. If you try to squeeze a very detailed portrait into a small space, it can end up looking worse than the reference picture.
When choosing between different realism tattoo designs, consider not only the subject but also the size. Sometimes, a little more room to breathe for the art makes all the difference.
Pick the Right Photo or Reference
Your reference image is very important for realism tattoos. If the photograph is blurry, poorly lit or faces are covered by shadows, the job of the artist can be much harder. A clear image with good lighting helps the tattoo artist to see the facial features, textures and proportions better.
When taking a portrait, make sure that you can see the person’s face clearly in the photo. For animals, look for images that clearly show the eyes, fur and distinguishing features.
Think About the Placement of the Tattoo
Subject and placement should go hand in hand. For a more detailed portrait, you may need a larger, flatter area such as the upper arm, thigh, chest or back. Smaller, more realistic designs can be used for areas with the appropriate space and shape for the design.
Speak to a Professional Tattoo Artist
This is where a good artist can save you from making a questionable decision at 11 pm after 3 hours of scrolling through tattoo inspiration.
At Lines N Shades Tattoo, you can talk about your idea, reference image, preferred style and placement before you decide on the final design. A good artist has the experience to tell you what will work well on your skin and how the design can be made more detailed and last longer. Contact us now.
