Bonnie Baker

I would ask them what they specifically like about those pictures and assure them if you can that you will include what aspects they want. These people are usually stubborn, but if you explain how a custom piece would benefit them more (since they probably don't care about your rules for yourself) they might be more apt to listen to your ideas. Explain that changing the picture could give them an opportunity to truly put some of themselves in it, how jealous other people might be because they'll be the only person with it and that's really cool. Like someone else said, you're the salesperson. Show them why it should matter to them.

Hey, guys. I've got an appointment with jeremy at eyecandy in a week for the beginnings of my back piece. Am I in good hands? Jeremy seems super knowledgeable and nice, but this will be my first tattoo so I'm pretty nervous.

If you decide to focus on a hummingbird for your back, you should definitely think about additions to that tattoo.. a beautiful flower or two or some kind of nature background. So you'll know how you want to keep expanding the tattoo on your back that's prime real estate. And beautiful new tattoo btw!

I don't think there's anything wrong with mixing styles. I've always like more cohesive looks, but if you can incorporate a little bit of color you have in your other tattoos or some other theme, I think it'd turn out awesome. A Mandala will be gorgeous no matter what so I don't think you could go wrong matching you or not.

My mom and I are going to get our first tattoos in a week. My mom is also 50, but she's not really worried about the pain (we're both beginning with 4-5 hour sessions) while I think I might be so nervous I might vomit beforehand. haha. Let us know how it goes and what you and your artist decide! Good luck!

Wow, excellent tattoo! My first tattoo will be started soon and it'll be a huge back piece, and I think @KBeee made a really good point about not being able to see it. I am kind of sad I won't be able to see mine, but it'll be worth it when I go play water polo.

Hey, guys. My name is Bonnie and I am from the mississippi gulf coast. I am currently going to school for chemistry. A few years ago I determined that I needed to get some art on my back. After years of deliberating, I've decided on a full japanese style back piece. I'm starting it in a week in Nola! My family thinks I'm crazy for choosing such a large tattoo for my first, but it just feels right. (Don't know how long it will feel right once the needle is going across my skin, haha). Anyways, I came across this site looking for advice and saw that everyone posting seemed really lovely and friendly. I'm looking forward to talking to folks. I'm pretty nervous so advice and words of encouragement are always appreciated!

Hey, Jordan! I'm the same way about styles. That's why it's taken me so much time to decide(years deliberating) what to dedicate my back(prime real estate!) to and also my first tattoo to. I've finally decided on a japanese style back piece, but because it's such a huge tattoo and will take many sessions and will be my first tattoo, I'm a little nervous! I hope I never have to go through any laser sessions. You seem like quite the tattoo veteran, any advice on avoiding regrettable tattoo decisions? I'd love to see some pics of your japanese style ink btw!