What to Expect at Your First Tattoo Consultation

By Alex Roze | process | 4 min read

Nervous about your first consultation? Here's exactly what happens and how to make the most of our time together.

Your first tattoo consultation can feel intimidating, especially if you're not sure what to expect. Let me walk you through exactly how I approach consultations and what you can do to prepare. Before We Meet The more you can tell me about your vision beforehand, the more productive our conversation will be. Through the consultation form, share: - Your general concept or theme - Reference images (even if they're not exactly what you want) - Placement ideas - Size range you're considering - Any specific elements that are important to you During the Consultation This is a collaborative conversation, not a sales pitch. We'll discuss: - Your vision in detail - How that vision translates to your specific body placement - Realistic expectations about size, detail, and timeline - Style considerations (I'll explain what will work best for longevity) - Budget and session planning What I'm Looking For I'm assessing whether we're a good fit for each other. Not every artist is right for every client, and that's okay. I want to ensure: - I can execute your vision at the quality level I demand of myself - You understand my approach and are excited about working together - The piece is feasible within your constraints - The design will age well on your body After the Consultation If we decide to move forward, I'll provide a deposit invoice to secure your appointment. I'll then begin the custom design process, with a reveal scheduled before your session. Remember: a good consultation is the foundation of a great tattoo.