How to Compile References
As you probably know when you get tattooed you show your artist a reference photo, these are always helpful but some make better references than others. Here are some tips for finding the best reference photos to create the best tattoo:
- Find real photos.
Tattoo photos are helpful to see the style you’re after but also collect some photos of the real thing. For example if you’re looking for a tattoo of a bird flying, look up nature photography and find a photo of a real bird in a pose you like.
- Good lighting.
An important part of tattooing is clarity. The more light in a photo the more clear the subject is and the more clear your tattoo can be. When there is poor lighting the artist may have to improvise what’s going on in the dark space, this still turns out well but good lighting will help create a clear image.
- Know what you like.
When you have some reference photos, tattoos or real photos, jot down what you like about the photos. Some things you may point out in photos of tattoos is that you like the style of it, you like the colour or shading things like this. If it’s a real photo you may also say you like the colours, or the pose.
- The photos don’t need to be exactly what you want.
This sounds kind of funny but if you see a tattoo in a style you really like, show your artist. Even if the subject matter has absolutely nothing to do with what you want tattooed, showing the artist a photo of the style you like can help them to build your tattoo in a similar way. This goes for things besides style too, like colour or linework.
These tips can help you find reference photos but don’t get overwhelmed. If you can’t find photos with good lighting or don’t know exactly what you like about your photos the artist can do the heavy lifting. These tips are really helpful if you’re planning something large scale but we can always work with what you have and help you find reference photos at your appointment or consult.
