Tattoo Reality vs. Reality TV

2007-04-04 06:09 PM | 0 comments

Everyone always asks us, “do you watch ‘Miami Ink’?” or “‘Inked’?”

The truth is, I’ve never actually sat down and purposefully watched either show. First of all because I don’t really watch TV. If it’s on at the shop, I might peek, but I usually only watch movies. Occasionally I’ll watch ‘Ghost Hunters’ with Angel, or ‘Nip/Tuck’ with Bean…

But TV as a whole is scary. I don’t know if it’s because “reality TV” is the farthest it could possibly be from reality, or if it’s because of the endless commercials… probably both.

What I do know is this: some people (possibly disillusioned by the extreme spotlight tattooing has been under lately) expect a full sleeve or an entire rib mural in a very short amount of time, with little to no preperation on either party’s end. Also, because it seems so easy on TV, pricing is always this shock that comes at the end of a consultation.

I understand that seeing something on TV and doing it in real life is completely different, and so do most level-headed adults. But when you can fit an entire rib mural by Kat Von D, AND Ami James’ dog going to obedience training, all in a half hour episode, something’s not right.

So, customers: please understand, tattooing is a much heavier endeavor than walking in, meeting an artist and saying “I want sleeves, what time can I come back and get them?” It’s not that simple. Especially when you don’t really have a clue as to what you want.

Research, Prepare, Discuss… ahead of time. Bring in references, talk to me in an email or two first. I feel like I’m toppling your expectations of me as an artist by doing everything in my power to make sure your tattoo is perfect for you, and that it will stay nice and flow with your body for as long as you have it.

What you probably don’t get to see is these parts on the show, because it “doesn’t make for good tv” there’s nothing all that interesting or exciting about someone explaining why they can’t get the declaration of independance on their wrist.

Please get tattooed, enjoy the TV shows, and realize that the two are related, separate experiences. Much respect for the crews of both shows, best of luck, and thanks for reading.

with love
nickhole