SStu

For some artists, yes - but especially for the higher end artists I think for many it's the ability to quickly and cheaply "studio" or "gallery" your efforts. Not too many creative people don't want at least some recognition and/or feedback. I'm sure glad so many accommodate their fan base.

@else - still HOT!

They've got some talent, but I don't know if any of them is up to a perfect recreation/design in line with your specific idea. Personally I like more black (including outlines) in my favorite tattoos.

@Dan - you're dog looks to have taken 1 too many hits off of the bong . . .

Best of luck @irezumi, and looking forward to your eventual return.

welcome, and ditto^

This will need to be fairly large to pull off the detail you're going to want, I think. The real trick in pulling this off is to have the right artist (one already proficient working in this style) re-work the layout. Who are you having look at it?

Actually, there is a lot more truth ingrained in that statement than some might realize.

@graybones - Seth is one of the Kings of snakes and he's definitely high on my list. I'm jealous.

Different strokes for different folks. If you're still without any tattoos then it frees you up to a cohesive body-suit plan (that option was no longer available to me as I transitioned from having a couple of tattoos to being largely tattooed). In any case neither path is "right" or "wrong". If you are planning a full suit then you 1st need to find the artist who you want to put it together, and that's a task all by itself. Aside from that you will both need to be dedicated to and available for the extensive time required. Logistics can hamper a long term project like that.

welcome!

welcome!

We are back and forth between these 2 cities constantly - also for work, but enjoy the ability to play, too. In Nola, Eye Candy is the place to go for me - but if you're into more traditional pieces the pickings are rather slim.

welcome, from a fellow Houstonian! Currently getting my back done, too - but in New Orleans.

welcome!

welcome!

Nice. Who's doing your dots?

THAT's a shame.

welcome!

Welcome!

Late to this thread and no experience with cosmetic tattooing - but definite experience with Nola ink possibilities. I recommend you go and talk with the guys at Eye Candy. The best artists in the area and they won't take the job just to take the job.

agreed with @BrianH regarding Senor Ortega. If you're wanting a more realistic approach then go with Nate Beavers in Houston. I don't know anyone around here who specializes in the "painterly" style, per se - generally any realism specialist can reproduce. Liz Cook in Dallas might be another to look into.

@Boiled Dove - Having a morel tattoo NOT come out looking like a pecker is going to be an accomplishment! :rolleyes:

Charger probably took him out.

Which shop? Who with?