Tattoo styles: describing what you want
A rose is a subject, not a style. It could be drawn with bold outlines and flat color or shaded to look like a photograph. When choosing references, separate what the tattoo depicts from how it is drawn.
Realism and portraits
For a photographic look, bring the original, clearest image you have rather than a screenshot of a screenshot. For a portrait, identify the exact person, expression, and angle you want. Ask what size is needed for the details you want to keep; fitting a whole photograph into a small space may mean losing some of them.
Traditional
Look for bold outlines, clear shapes, and simplified shading. If your references differ, point out which outline weight, colors, and arrangement you prefer. A traditional rose and a realistic rose are different drawing requests even though the subject is the same.
Anime and character work
Specify the character, version, pose, and any details that must be included. Say whether you want the original drawing style or a different interpretation. A full scene with several characters is a different project from a single face; identify what matters if the composition needs simplifying.
Lettering
Provide the exact wording, capitalization, punctuation, and line breaks. Bring lettering examples and say whether you want their letter shapes, spacing, or decoration. Check the final drawing character by character, including dates and names. For a language you do not read, verify the wording before bringing it to the artist.
Color is a separate choice
Realism, character work, and other designs can use color or black and grey. Say which you want rather than assuming it from the subject. If you like the drawing in one reference and the colors in another, explain that distinction.
Find that direction in our artists' work
Start with Brandon's portfolio for traditional work, Carlos's for lettering, or Sierra's for realism and whimsical designs. These are starting points, not a complete list of what each artist does. Compare actual pieces before choosing.
For character work, name the character and identify the example you liked when you contact the shop. Do not assume every image in the shop gallery belongs to the same artist.
If you are covering existing ink, start with the cover-up assessment guide; the old tattoo can limit the new design.