What is a professional tattoo artist?

What is a professional tattoo artist?

There are a lot of definitions about this. Nowadays, the tattoo industry has made a big progress, which is surprising, inspiring, as well as good for all those who wants to be part of the big tattoo family. But also it made so many confusing terms. There are a lot of meanings about the term "artist". Maybe it's the big challenge, maybe it's the unknown way to be an artist but however. Some of them are even self proclaimed "artists".

In my tattoo journey there are a lot of people saying that it's enough to have some tattoo machines and enthusiasm to begin, It's enough to be in a tattoo shop and staring at someone's work, It's quite good to copy someone's style...

It's a "nice way" to grow artistically...

I'm not totally negative! I'm pretty sure all the artists have some influences, some role models or a nice start-doing some "bad" tattoos and then follow some instructions.

What we should take care of...

Tattooing is an apprentice-based art. A traditional apprenticeship lasts at least three years. There are so many variables to learn (such as skin condition, medications that affect tattooing, machine building and adjustment, design color, techniques of tattooing, healing process etc).

When it comes to your clients you should act ethically. You must give them some of your "best" advices as well as your good personality. You must make them believe you and respect your work. NO one wants to get a tattoo from someone who doesn't even care of their clients. The most important thing it's your sterilization!! Your studio- all the medical conditions MUST be approached by the Alliance of Professional Tattoo Artists.

Professional Tattoo Artist conditions:

Always insist that you see your tattoo artist remove a new needle & tube set-up from a sealed envelope immediately prior to your tattoo.

Be certain you see your tattoo artist pour a new ink supply into a new disposable container. Make sure your artist puts on a new pair of disposable gloves before setting up tubes, needles and ink supplies.

Satisfy yourself that the shop furnishings & tattooist are clean & orderly in appearance; much like a medical facility.

Feel free to question the tattoo artists as to any of his sterile procedures & isolation techniques. Take time to observe them at work & do not hesitate to inquire about their experience & qualifications in the tattoo field.

If the professional tattoo artist is qualified, they will have no problem complying with standards above & beyond these simple guidelines.

If the tattoo artist or studio does not appear up to these standards or if they become evasive when questioned, seek out a professional tattoo artist.