Realistic

Realistic tattoos recreate people, animals and objects through convincing proportions, light and shadow. They can be made in black and grey or colour. In a portrait, likeness matters: the expression, the shape of the eyes and the small features that make someone unmistakably themselves.

A clear, high-quality photograph is a good place to begin. For a portrait of a loved one or pet, gather several images that show the face and its details clearly. Your artist can help assess which reference will translate well into a tattoo.

Let the image help determine the size. A detailed portrait needs enough space for its important features and tonal changes to remain distinct. Start with the subject you want to keep close, then discuss the scale and placement it needs.