Services
Black and grey realism
For those who love restraint: deep shadows and soft shades of grey.
Black and grey realism is built on light and shadow. Without colour, everything rests on the grey transitions: where the skin stays light, where it falls into deep shadow and how contrast gives a face or object its volume.
Why it's chosen for portraits
Grey tones don't distract from what matters most — the expression, the gaze, the mood. That's why black and grey is often chosen for portraits of loved ones, animals, sculptures and scenes in the spirit of classic photography or old cinema.
Contrast that still reads years later
The more precisely the shadows and highlights are placed, the better the piece looks both up close and from a distance. Every tattoo softens over time, and strong contrast keeps its shape and recognisability — so your artist plans it at the design stage.
Black and grey or colour
If mood, depth and restraint matter most to you, go for grey tones. If colour plays the leading role — bright plumage, a sunset, eye colour — colour realism is the better fit. Not sure? At a free consultation, your artist will show you work in both styles and help you choose.
Frequently asked questions
01Can a black and grey tattoo be done from a colour photo?
Yes. Translating the photo into shades of grey is the artist's job. All you need to send is a sharp photo in good light, without filters.
02Does a black and grey tattoo have to be large?
No. Size depends on the subject: the more detail it has, the more room it needs so the shadows don't merge. For a portrait, your artist will suggest a size at which the face stays recognisable.
03Can colour be added to a black and grey piece?
Yes, as one or two accents — the eyes or a flower, for example. The rest stays in grey tones, and the colour detail draws the eye straight away.
04How many sessions will it take?
A medium-sized piece — on the forearm, calf or shoulder blade — usually takes one or two sessions. A large project is done over several sessions with breaks for healing; your artist will give you the exact number once they've seen the design and placement.
05Is black and grey realism good for covering an old tattoo?
Often, yes: dark tones and dense shadows hide the previous work well. Send us a photo of the tattoo you'd like to cover, and we'll assess what can be done.
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.
02MicrorealismIf you want realism on a small scale: every detail stays easy to read.
03PortraitsKeep your loved ones close: a portrait of a person or pet from a photo.
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.