The most important thing you can do before getting a tattoo is taking the time to find the right studio and/or artist. Many people just decide on a whim that they want to get a tattoo, and enter the nearest studio without much thought about what they are doing. Some get lucky and walk away with a great tattoo, and some don't. Here are some things to help you along in making your decision, and to make sure that you get a tattoo you are going to be proud of.

Take Your Time. I know that getting a new tattoo is exciting, and when you finally decide this is what you want, it is hard to wait. But this is not something to be rushed into. If you really want a tattoo that you are going to be happy with, its going to take some time. So, relax, and don't be in a rush to get inked.

Never get tattooed under pressure. Modern techniques have brought tattooing to incredible levels. There is no good reason for anyone to get a bad tattoo. However, unsatisfied customers occur everyday. One reason for this is customers getting tattooed under pressure. Sometimes It's great to be impulsive, but tattoos are permanent. Avoid the "spur-of-the-moment tattoo." Quick decisions often lead to a lifetime of regret. Step one is simple. Make sure you are emotionally ready to get tattooed.

Your Tattoo Is A Reflection Of You! You can pick up the latest tattoo-related magazine, and you will see some examples of great artwork of some very "outspoken" tattoos. Demons, serial killers and sexually explicit tattoos can be artfully perfect, but this may not be how you want people to view you. Whatever you have tattooed on you is the impression people are going to get about what kind of person you are. Granted, this is no-one's business but your own, but if you want to project a certain image, your tattoos should reflect that.

There are three basic elements to consider when choosing: Experience, portfolio and attitude. It's always good to find an artist who has a few years of experience and is seasoned with the style of artwork you have chosen. Ask to see their portfolio of finished tattoos. Reputable tattoo artists will have a portfolio. If portfolios are not available, this is a bad sign. Look carefully at the pictures. Check for the quality of the black outlines. Are these lines clean and crisp, or are they shaky and irregular? Also, look at the color or shading. Are the colors bright and solid or are they dull, with missing patches? Do the colors blend smoothly? Is the image easy to understand? Do the tattoos contour properly to the body? If the portfolio meets your requirements, you will want to get to know the artist. Because tattoos are personal and somewhat painful, it is good to work with someone who's chair-side manner gives you great confidence. The artists should be open to answering your questions.

When choosing a tattoo artist:
Ask to see the autoclave and sterilization certification.
An autoclave is essentially a pressure cooker primarily used in the medical field for sterilizing medical instruments. An autoclave must maintain a temperature of at least 246 degrees for 30 minutes in order to fully sterilize the equipment.

Make sure the artist wears gloves.

New sterile needles must always be removed from an autoclave bag in front of you.

A professional will destroy and dispose of needles in a sharps container.

Always ask to see examples of the artist's finished work. Photos should be openly available.

The better you sit, the better your tattoo. The big day has arrived. it's important to show up rested and well nourished. Don't go out late the night before your tattoo. You want to be well rested so you can relax and sit still. It's also helpful to have eaten a good breakfast or lunch. Getting tattooed on an empty stomach can be difficult and lead to problems. When you sit quietly and relaxed, your tattoo artist can concentrate on doing a good job. It has been said that there are two kinds of tattoos, one for people who sit still and one for people who don't. An edgy or restless tattoo customer takes valuable time and energy away from their own tattoo. Make sure you help your tattooist by being still and relaxed. Tensing up and complaining does not make the tattoo hurt any less, and is likely to have a negative effect on your tattoo. If you sit still and cooperate with your tattooist, you will be proud to know you did your part to make your tattoo come out PERFECT!

Tip: Never get tattooed while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.