Services
Portraits
Keep your loved ones close: a portrait of a person or pet from a photo.
A portrait is the most personal of tattoos. Likeness matters, but so does what makes a person or pet recognisable to you in particular: the gaze, the smile, the tilt of the head.
Which photo works
A portrait starts with a photo, and the more information it holds, the more accurate the piece will be:
- the face large and in focus;
- soft, clear light with no harsh shadows across half the face;
- no filters or heavy editing;
- if you have several good shots, send them all — your artist will pick the best one.
Children, loved ones and pets
A child's portrait needs an especially sharp photo: children's features are soft, and the likeness rests on small details. With a pet, the eyes, fur and a characteristic pose matter most — a photo where they look into the camera is ideal. A portrait can stand on its own or be combined with a background, flowers, a date or a name.
Grey tones or colour
Grey tones are calmer and put the focus on the expression. Colour captures the shade of the eyes, hair or fur. Your artist will choose a size that keeps the features recognisable for years: the more detail in the portrait, the more room it needs.
Frequently asked questions
01Can a portrait be done from an old photo?
Yes, if the face is clearly visible. Send us the photo — your artist will check whether it has enough detail and suggest what could be taken from other pictures.
02Will the portrait be an exact copy of the photo?
Your artist takes the facial features from your photo but doesn't transfer it to the skin one to one: the light and contrast are arranged so the face reads well on the body.
03Do you do pet portraits?
Yes. We need a photo where the eyes and fur are clearly visible, and the pose and expression are the ones you want to see on your skin.
04How many sessions does a portrait take?
A medium-sized portrait usually takes one or two sessions. If it's part of a larger composition, the work is spread over several sessions with breaks for healing.
05How much does a portrait tattoo cost?
The price depends on size, the amount of detail, placement and whether the portrait is in grey tones or colour. Send us a photo and describe your idea, and we'll give you a quote.
Let’s talk about your project
Tell us what you have in mind. We’ll give you a quote and suggest a date.
Other services
All services
01Colour realismFor when you want a tattoo that looks alive: rich colour, light and depth.
02Black and grey realismFor those who love restraint: deep shadows and soft shades of grey.
03MicrorealismIf you want realism on a small scale: every detail stays easy to read.
04HyperrealismWhen realism isn't enough: every pore, highlight and reflection, just like a photo.
05WatercolourFor a light touch: colour that flows across the skin like paint on paper.- 06LetteringFor words that matter to you: a name, a date or a line from a favourite song.
07Cover-upIf your old tattoo no longer makes you happy, a new piece will take its place.
08TrainingFor tattoo artists who want to grow in realism: learn from an artist with 100+ awards.
09Gift cardsA gift that lets someone choose their own tattoo. Valid for 12 months.
Not sure which service is yours? That's normal: an idea usually lives in words, not in the name of a style. Tell us what you'd like and where — we'll suggest how it sits best and show you similar work. Come in for a free consultation: we'll look at the placement, try the design on and tell you honestly if it won't work that way.