Tattoo artists aren't mind-readers, so communicating exactly what you have in mind, is key. But it's important to strike a balance between telling your artist what you want, and letting them do their job.
Oliver Kenton, a San Francisco-based artist who specializes in geometric and blackwork tattooing, says that it's helpful for you to remember the reason you chose your artist in the first place: something about their artwork spoke to you. And in order for artists to do their best work, don't micromanage. Share ideas, but let them do their job when it comes to things like details, precise placement, and colors.
"Let your artist be an artist," Kenton says. "If you've done your research and picked your artist out above all others, let them do their job and create a piece for you. You should always feel free to say that something is not to your liking," Kenton clarifies, "But micromanaging the process is a sure-fire way to lose your artist's trust." Trust goes both ways, and remember — they're creating art that you both will be proud of.
