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I always appreciate do/don't videos, I am an anxious person and the last thing I want to do is unknowingly or accidentally insult someone who is about to permanently alter my body.

Definitely took me a couple of sessions to build up proper client to artist etiquette. Artist deserve 100% respect but so do clients. I remember my first ever consultation at an "award winning studio" and my first tattoo concept was passed around and laughed at by each artist in the studio (it was just a switchblade). Their excuse was that "we only do award winning tattoos and your idea is too simple, maybe think of a better idea and get back to us". I totally support artist deciding what to and not to draw/tattoo but damn, some artist really do have their head up their ass. (Not saying you are like this)

My favorite red flag actually happened yesterday. Young kid walked into our shop asking for a throat tattoo, none of us did it because he had no other tattoos & wanted his entire throat done for $100. His response was "I got a license to tattoo, give me your shit and I'll do it myself." I've never been that pissed lol. Not to mention he wasn't even 18

I’d say my biggest weakness when getting tattooed is that I’m really shy so I don’t talk while I’m getting tatted. So it’s kind of boring but I do tip well and appreciate tattoo artists very much.

met rude artist too. treating me like an attention seeking teenager just because my first tattoo started at my wrist to the middle of my arm. it's just where i wanted to start my sleeve and i always had ideas in my head of what it would look like one day. he literally made fun of me in front of other clients and artists for nothing

If someone is calling in/doing a consultation on behalf of their partner it would strike me as them being super controlling. I think I would wanna stay out of that situation if I could avoid it. Great video as always.

My first consultation, the artist turned down my sleeve but for good reasoning/without making me feel foolish, and I'm thankful for his input. It would have been my first tattoo ever and I'm 24. He could tell I was kind of shot gunning the decision w the tattoo idea. I wish people realized sometimes not everything is personal but seriously for your own good especially when it comes from professionals even involving ink. I'll go back to him for my first smaller piece, and hopefully for more future pieces since he's already earned a some of my respect and trust lol

Consult by proxy makes me think of bad couples tattoos and relationships destined to fail, almost like some bad open relationships where it's one partners idea

I'm always 100% honest with clients. If they're an asshole, I tell them that I wouldn't work with them because of their attitude. I'm never an asshole about it, but it creates a very open atmosphere for people that I end up working with

Love you videos, James. So helpful and I love that you talk bluntly and give it straight.

As a nurse who has worked through the pandemic I can relate to tattooers in the sense that people swear because they showed up you have to put up with their nasty piss Poor no home training attitudes. We are in service industries and have rights too.

It’s not only tattoo artists. It applies to all artists. I am a photographer and agree to all you have said.

I appreciate how honest and thorough your videos are! A very integrous business man.

I always ask for a ballpark price and I bring more money then what I was told. The main thing I want to talk about is what I want to get done of course but I like having an idea how much to bring with me. All I can do is make a guess based on what I paid for the tattoos I had done by the same artist and that really isn’t a ton of help. I’m paranoid and I don’t want to embarrass myself by not bringing enough money with me. I don’t haggle or say I can get it done cheaper somewhere else (which doesn’t make sense for tattoos) anything like that. After talking about what I want to get done with an artist and we’re on the same page, then I ask how much. They tell me and I bring that much and more when I have the money together. I also tip my artist too so I bring a tip for them as well

People haggle their tattoo prices... Crazy 😬.. I don't even ask my artist what I owe her until after its done because I trust her, I budget and make sure I can afford the tattoo when I go and anything she's ever told me has been fair because I genuinely love her work.

Tha goat back w another banger

Love the video. On the first point one of my buddies is a severe introvert, in the past he had me help him in the consultation. I explained this to the artist and she was cool with it. But she did get that similar vibe you described. But funny enough during the consultation he progressively got more comfortable and by the end of it I was standing back. Great vid as always.

I got my first (3 ) tattoos today and I am so proud of myself. 💯 💯 so happy and so worth it. No pain at all😊😅

I'm 20 and my Dad sits in with me on my consultation and Appointments because I have Generalized Epilepsy. Surprisingly my Artist actually requested that he comes with me to watch just incase something happened like a Seizure during the Tattoo. But I do handle all the talking with my Artist so I agree with that part but sometimes a young Adult might bring someone in like I do for their own safety if they have a health condition like I myself have. It's not always a sign of Immaturity.

I honestly like your videos I have nieces who are getting to the age of being able to get tattoos and I share your videos with them so they know how to approach tattoo artist and are more prepared when the time comes to actually get there tattoos started

God. I love your videos. I value the information, but your humor is so dry and sarcastic - it totally cracks me up!!!!

I value my tattoo artist. He is the boss and not only do I trust his decisions, but I respect his work. Ideas, and opinions. Because of him, I love all my Tatts and will continue to get more. I have 11 of them and get compliments all the time on them. My artist is the best. Thanks for this video. Excellent information.

This video was well put together and thought out. Definitely gives me food for thought regarding taking clients later on down the road!

I recently attended a tattoo convention and decided to enter some of my tattoos in the convention. I didn't place and that's okay, but I was wondering if you can do a video on how those contests work and what the judges are looking for in an entry. Thanks!

Yea it’s true what ur saying . Prices have gone up for really good award winning artist and the waiting lists are crazy, I had to pay 50% deposit just for appointment. I’m in San Jose so everything is just way more expensive out here . I got a realism quarter sleeve on inside of forearm .. ran me 2750$ for a 10hour tatto

That’s so bizarre to me that people will try to consult an artist for a piece that isn’t even for them. Ive never even thought about that

Some sage advice. Thanks for the video, your channel is super informative!

James is the realist!! Real AF!

I have crippling social anxiety along with other mental illness and disabilities. It's like my brain shuts down completely when speaking to strangers and I'll just agree with whatever the other person says when in reality I do not agree and am just desperately trying to act "normal" and floundering. So, I like to have my mother help me communicate so my dumb brain won't screw things up. I think having to talk on my own would be more likely to get me a tattoo I don't like then having my parent do most of the speaking on my behalf, so not every situation is the same. I do understand you're uncomfortable in that situation and that's completely valid and reasonable. just means you and that specific client don't mesh. It's another disadvantage that dependent people have to swallow. I am 20 years old and hearing you say that mentally or socially disabled people aren't true mature adults because they need extra help communicating is very disheartening, it's like saying someone who can't get inside a tattoo shop without someone else pushing their wheelchair is too immature to get a tattoo. Some people have more hurdles in life than others, be it mental or physical.

I must say that I treat my tattooist like he and his staff are my family. I normally do 6 hr sessions and always bring coffee and treats for everyone. I'm that girl who does the happy dance for a week leading up to a new piece . When you find that artist he/she is always worth the wait and price. Mad respect and love for all you amazing artists out there.

Great content, James! For me those clients that can’t make decisions and keep change their ideias over and over are a red flag for me. They often give us hard time to figure out what they want to get done and more often they want us to design pieces til they like it, and that’s a wast time for all of us

So glad I have a main artist. Got a couple from others, but will probably stay with my main guy for years. Once you develope a healthy bond with an artist you love it's pure gold.

Hey James, great insight yet again. Any chance we‘ll get a little tour about your tattoos anytime soon? Your sleeves are looking quiet juicy, I’d be curious to know.

Love your videos man! Keep it going

I'm so glad I don't think I've had any of these flags as a client lol. The artist always brought up prices first as a natural part of the consultation (or even until after a walk in session). I let them decide if they want to do a long session or multiple short ones for a big piece, and really appreciate their creative input on the piece and placement 😄

Yet another informative and entertaining video. Thanks! As an aside, it's a shame when people don't use common sense or consideration (these are euphemisms for words that are more fun) - and have the entitled expectation that others should treat them several levels higher than their behavior warrants. Edit: Your use of "grown ass" man/woman/adult made me smile, as it's something I find myself saying and thinking a lot.

Real talk. I appreciate your insight.

I appreciate this 💯🙏🏾

As an apprentice I appreciate these kinds of videos! Thanks for sharing your perspective.

I do ask for quotes, but I don’t use the comparison with other artists because each artist has a unique style. I usually ask if the person is still around (so aside from guest artists from abroad) so I can save up. ^_^

I’m a PUM artist and I appreciate you sharing your experience with us new tattoo artist. THANK YOU :-)

I’ve been tattooing for 20 years now, and I think this video is the best thing ever on KZfaq ❤

I just made it through my first year of tattooing, and i absolutely take it like an ihop server from other clients lmao

its amazing that you even have to put up with any of these scenarios lol youd think people would easily understand what not to do, especially when you're working with an artist who quite literally put their heart and soul into their work

With the Consult by Proxy - I would also be weary that whomever is doing the talking is going to be directing you as well. It gives me strong order dinner for your date vibes

I hear all this. I have to say though, when it comes to scheduling, the Tattoo industry seems like a mess. I am in Austin, Texas and I have reached out to multiple Studios and artists directly ( the one's that don't say " no DMs",etc) and I still haven't got anything set up after a month of looking. I understand I might be waiting until next year, I get it. There is a waitlist. I just want to get something in the books. Lots of artists don't respond, studio's take over a week to get back, and when they do it takes several follow ups. Faces In the Dark in Kyle here, I must have sent 10 emails to them and they keep asking me for the same pictures and concepts that I have given them twice already, and haven't managed to get their guy to review the pictures despite him telling me to DM him after we had a consult on the phone. Like, Jesus Christ. Is this indicative of the entire industry? it's such a shit show. Right now the demand exceeds the supply, so it appears they don't care because there are so many bookings, but it won't be that way forever. There will come a point when there is a lot more artists and the demand is down. It's not a good idea for the client to suck ass ( as stated in the video), or the studio or artist to show a lack of effort it understanding for people trying to book either. Just make it an efficient, respectable experience. I will be paying 2500 a session plus a 20% tip, at least make it feel like I don't have to beg to get things done. Right now it seems to make more sense that I just fly to Eastern Europe for a tattoo because they have insanely good artists and the price is a fraction, even when you factor in flights. Im honestly getting annoyed by the fact it feels like I have to kiss everyone's ass, pay an extortionate rate, and I am still getting nowhere.

Ok. Price folks. Save up at a minimum a few hundred and then when you go to your consultation schedule your appointment for a time when you’re going to have the rest of the money saved up. Put your deposit down because you’re serious about getting it. I’m a single mom and get tattoos. I’m not made of money like the next person. I save up some and then I go for the consultation. I put my deposit down and the artist and I discuss a timeframe that will work with us (myself and the artist). I plan and save for it no more than a few weeks. If you’re going big save big because it’s gonna cost you. Also stop asking for a set price. Ask about how much you think that might run me. The artist can give you an estimate of time and their hourly. That is only an estimate. It depends on a number of factors #1 being how you sit for the piece. If you’re not able to handle it or know you don’t sit well…expect to pay more as it will take longer. But it’s an estimate not a promise or a quote. You can end up paying more or less…depends. Also, make sure you have money to tip. My first tattoo I was prepared to pay big because it’s a big piece and we planned for an 8 hour minimum. I was able to sit well and she was able to get it done in 4 hours! Come prepared, be respectful, and happy tattooing

I’ve never understood why artist get irritated by people price shopping. I (speaking in a general sense) as a paying customer have a right to get as much information as I possibly can. I feel like this is great because it doesn’t waste anyone’s time. I understand that some customers don’t handle that situation correctly, but a lot of artist get rude when you only ask for a price.

Hey James what do you feel about quiet clients I’m an introvert and find it hard to spark conversation while getting tattooed is it cool just to chill and listen to music ?

thanks for the video! i have Very bad anxiety and it’s helpful that i know what to ask and what not to ask so i don’t sound stupid

Great vid. Great inside info about how to better groove with a tattoo Artists that’s going to do some art on ya.

Thanks for the video! So for #1 thats a good point..Im assuming this doesn't applies to teens and their parents? Like the parent is there just making sure the teen gets an approved tattoo? Do the parents have a say? My niece is in high school (15) and swears so many kids in her school have tattoos and is asking for one for her 16th bday. Do many professional artists tattoo teens? I'm assuming because so many kids have them.

Love your videos brother. I would love to hear you speak about cover ups.

Honestly don't know why people have a problem being turned down, you guys are an artist when it comes down to it

So stoked getting my first tattoo on November 12th. A half sleeve as well.

When he brought up not asking about the price my heart sunk into my stomach but then he explained it as more of a haggling problem.

My tattooers like having me as a client. I've had them want to book me right away for more tattoos. I guess I'm doing well and have a good relationship with my artists.

I never argue price wit my artist and I tip him everytime

Ugh. It is about impossible to get in with a decent artist right now. I have gotten several tattoos since covid and it was basically because a pandemic reminds you life is short and tomorrow is not guaranteed. If you want something, get it, do it. Stop waiting for it. There is rarely a perfect time for anything.

Can you do a video on whether if it’s ok or what level of tattoo artist would do a design the client themselves design. I’m an artist and want a tattoo I’ve designed myself copy and pasted basically onto me by a tattoo artist. I have some that I don’t mind having their creative twist too, but some not so much. I feel like it’s hard to go around and ask for from high quality tattoo artists. I’m not trying to get it done cheaper cuz it’s my design, and sometimes I can be persuaded so I’m not entirely a stickler. But I don’t want to get stuck with only a newbie tattoo artist that only does copy and paste but quality is bad or not entirely developed yet. Idk if it’s doable, but what is your take. Would you take a client with an already designed idea?

Some people might need help with socializing due to disability, if that consideration didn't cross anyones mind

I'm kind-of client #3? I tell my tattoo artist that I have savings put away just for tattooing whenever I want, I trust her and I'm not concerned about the price. I want her to do her very best and feel comfortable that she will be paid well for it. I'm an artist myself and I understand the need to pay good money for good art. I NEVER try to 'sneak in' before others when she's booked solid -- I get on the end of her list as soon as I can and I'm totally cool with that. Ultimately, I just want her to feel comfortable that she is going to get paid what she's worth.

I have like 30 tattoos (idk bc multiple pieces kind of go together) I've been getting tattooed since I was 17 I'm pushing 40 now and out of the 3 artists I have worked with (depending on the style of the tattoo sometimes means you need a different artist for that job) I have always looked at getting a tattoo done is a partnership. You and your artist have to make choices together so you need to respect that that is the only person who you will be displaying their artwork for life. Why on earth someone would start on a bad foot with someone who is putting a lifelong peice on you makes me feel like no one was taught common sense. Respect the person who is about to spend hrs, weeks months on your body you carry their work forever. Their pricing is not negotiable and you should respect their level of expertise.

I walk in the shop, we chat for 30 minutes about our kids, family this and that. Then I sit down in that chair and quietly stare at a blank white wall for 4-5 hours. After the session we chat again for 30 minutes. We're both absolutely 100% in the zone when we're inking.

Just had a 3,5h tattoo on my ribs. If I get another big(ger) tattoo I will definitely spread the appointments. Not because of the money but because of the pain 😅! That last 30min was hell

The proxy thing could be that there extremely shy ,mute ,have issues expressing their selves with people and don't want to be rude and loose you as an artist and or just have no vocabulary to explain it best but I agree with you I don't like the proxy thing either.

I understand where your coming from and everything most definitely. But as someone who has a disability “treacher Collin syndrome” where my speaking isn’t great without me having to take my phone out and tell them what I wanted. Usually it’s better for my partner or anyone that I use to just tell them what I wanted quickly. And then I’ll just type and add into what I wanted I’m pretty grateful that the shop I gone to for couple of years always been helpful since been working on my sleeves. But I don’t think most people are not mature adults some aren’t but most are believe me it’s annoying having to take out something just to write it down for them.

Is there a way to respectfully share how much a client can afford? I don’t ever try to short any artist and I always try to tip 20 to 25% on top of the cost without seeming to concerned about the price. I also want to make sure as a client that I can afford the work even if I have to use tax refunds. I’m just trying to learn as much as I can. Not trying to seem like one of these clients trying to rip anyone off.

Just a friendly reminder that some people (like myself) with disabilities such as autism, mutism, tourettes, or any thing really, may need help from their carer or caregiver to help them with making their appointment. Yes we are grown people but some of us have disabilities and need a little extra help initially. I'm just lucky I don't all my own tattoos because I know its likely I'd face discrimination going to another shop

i agree with u a lot. think ur cool asf you just say what u think and how you feel. i think this is way better than those artist who say yes to everyrhing and everyone, because the artist also spend their time with you. and it has to be enjoyable for them aswell so gg just say what u think and fk those who dont understand

What if one person contacts the artist or shop to Get a group tattoo? I got a tattoo with 2 off my friends as a «friendship tattoo», and i did all the talking. Off course we all had the same reference photo, but would you turn us down because I was the only one talking with you? I was talking with them through Instagram dm’s

Just wondering, what if you get a client that has a few options and wants your opinion on what would work/look best and in what placement?

This is so spot on! The other thing I hate, probably the most, is when clients try to micromanage the artwork and not let you do your thing (that they came to you for) or try to get you to tattoo someone else's work or copy their style. Just go to that artist then!!

So one time I went in for a tattoo and I was waiting for my artist. This lady came barging into the tattoo shop, marched up to the desk and was like "y'all do tattoos?" 🤣 They were like "yes... You have the right place..." And then she grabs a random portfolio and slaps her hand down on it and says "I want this one" 🤣 and the artists at the desk were like "uhm. Well that's someone's memorial piece and you can't just get the same exact thing as someone..." And then she left. That was it. 🤣 It was only my second time ever being in a shop and I was BAFFLED.

Would you take a client that is looking to cover scar areas with tattoos ?

Hey bro you should have someone edit your videos. I'm sure you've thought of that tho. Thanks for the content 🙏

You should do a video of red flags of a tattoo artist

That’s why I always say that if you want a dope tattoo then be willing to pay a reasonable price, most artist are annoyed by the “why is so expensive” lol

Bro everything you say and in this video you are spot on I feel the same f****** way Especially with the d******** captain captain money banks Mr. Scrooge mcduck type of type of daddy warbuck's guys. As well as the people that totally disrespect us artist S4S saying I can Find someone else that's cheaper that can do the same thing you hit that right on the nose

Dude spent 4 minutes talking about what the video was about to be about when the title said it for him. Red flag!

Oh no... I called a shop the other day to begin the process of getting friendship tattoos and I called on my friends behalf as well.... we were gonna both go in-person but the heat was 115° and we didn't want to go out. Luckily we are dead set on this idea and both want two seperate artists to do the pieces.

Hey man hope you respond to this but I get your point on the proxy thing but my mom wants a tattoo but doesn’t know any English at all do you think it’s rude to the artist to make her appointment for her and go with her to the consultation?

I think that pay to cut the line thing is not that bad and I do similar things in other situations just to cut through the shit getting what you want faster. That doesnt meant I'm flaunting the money at them or being disrespecting of others but I think it's a fast cause and effective communication Edit: what do you guys think about this? I'm curious to know some of your opinions on this

Oh man. I feel this. I run my own online sales business and these same scenarios happen there too. They don't realize we want their money, we don't NEED their money Especially at our own detriment.

I used to say yes to everyone. Definitely learned my lesson

I really can't stand the "how much for that?" client who shows you a picture of a random ass tattoo on the internet lol

Really appreciate your information and your nature🙂 I’m researching for myself I think it’s ok to ask the ball park $ just have some common sense and dignity 😊you don’t want to be rude

Thanks for your viedo getting my first one in a month

Hello, I’m quiet and not very good at getting ppl to like me on the spot and I worry I won’t be some immediate connection or interest in wanting to tattoo me. Do you know what I mean 😂 do artist care if there’s not a connection to the person ??

Real! Love your stuff James! I saw an interview of my tattooer years ago somewhere where they asked him how to get an appointment with him. He said simply "Don't be a dick." I've been getting tattooed by him for 10 years now and almost have a full Japanese bodysuit.

what percentage do you feel is appropriate to tip? i think i tip well but i would like to know what artists expect and will be satisfied with.

Pause pause pause less than 3 minutes in and i agree so much with his statement of the customer isn’t always right coming from a cook customers or in this case clients are wrong all the fuckin time

My wife is now a tattoo artist herself. But before, when we were young, I would always let her do the talking. I just trust her ideas and her taste better than my own. Also she knows me very well, so she knows what I like and what I don’t like. I don’t see anything wrong with that as long as the person getting tattooed is present and listening to the whole conversation so they know exactly what’s going on. Also tattoo artists will get upset when people try to bargain. Sure, you should know your value. But don’t act like 90% of artists won’t be like “I’ll ask 2200 but sure I’d do it for 2000”. It doesn’t really apply to more famous artists who can afford to refuse clients left and right, but that’s not the case most of the time.

Good man right here

Really like your videos. However this works both ways I've also seen some artists act so arrogant but looking at their work they were not even great. I would never get tattoos by someone I didn't connect with as they are there for life and I want to remember my good experience not a miserable git who did my tattoo and made me feel their company was more painful than my tattoo. Tattoo should be one of your best life experiences.

Can we have ur opinion on the free reign clients

Yep, controlling men try and talk about what their possession aka girlfriend is getting or wants. So ridiculous to watch.

2. If i want a pegusis on my shoulder blades and you tell me your price estimate i can and will only decide whether or not i can afford it at that time or wait until i have the money to pay for it.

So as someone with extremely bad phone anxiety that has hindered my life in far worse ways than not being able to get a tattoo. This hurts my heart a little bit. Haha