I’ve been tattooing for over 9 years, but getting my own feet and ankles done felt like a completely different beast compared to my back or legs. For the collectors here: what was your "never again" spot where you almost tapped out? Also, did you find that the healing process was a nightmare with shoes, or did you just live in flip-flops for two weeks?
Yh you’re right!
Wow, you’re an artist too?? Cool 👌👌
Interesting point! I guess 'ope' is my regional bias showing lol. The escalator thing is a great example of a rule that makes life so much more efficient, yet people still ignore it. I wonder why some rules like 'facing the door' stick so well, while others like 'stand on the right' are a constant struggle. Do you think it’s because one is about comfort and the other is about efficiency?
I love that perspective. It’s funny how different our jobs are, but the root of the anxiety is identical, wanting to do right by the person in front of you. I think you're right; if I didn't care about the outcome, I probably wouldn't be nervous. It’s comforting to know that even after years of interviewing, that human element still stays with you!
That is such a sharp observation! You might actually be right, as an artist, I definitely have a specific vision in my head, and there’s always that tiny bit of 'creative anxiety' about it not matching up. It’s a lot of trust to put in someone else’s hands, even when you know they’re talented. It’s definitely a mix of physical nerves and that perfectionist brain kicking in!
Haha, I can see how it sounded like that! I actually meant being the one in the chair getting poked, I still get those 'first-timer' jitters even though I do this for a living. But you’re right, having a crowd watch you work is a whole different kind of pressure!
I’ve been tattooing for a while now and I’ve seen it all, people falling asleep, people passing out, and everything in between. But every time I sit in the chair as the client, my stomach still doing backflips and I get those "first tattoo" jitters. I know exactly what the needle feels like, I know the process, and I know I'm going to love the result, yet I still find myself overthinking the pain or the long session ahead. Is this a common thing for pros, or am I just a bit of a wuss when the roles are reversed? [Image Context]: These are my legs so far! Lots of heavy blackwork and botanical details. I love the art, but man, those sessions near the ankles had me questioning everything. Would love to hear from other artists or heavily tattooed people, does the "pre-session anxiety" ever actually go away, or do you just get better at hiding it?
I love this! The 'tattoo drunk' feeling from endorphins is 100% real, and honestly, it’s one of the best ways to handle a long session. I never find it disrespectful when a client zones out or naps, it actually helps me stay 'zoned in' on the work. It’s definitely a shared moment, even if it’s a quiet one.. i also kinda wanna see your tats lol
Haha, art is definitely subjective! One person’s 'clipart' is another person’s meaningful symbol or aesthetic choice. As an artist, I just love that people use their skin to express themselves, whether it’s a tiny simple design or a massive custom piece. To each their own!
I promise he was just worried you’d passed out! It’s funny because being that relaxed is actually the best-case scenario for us, it means your body isn't fighting the process. Next time, maybe just tell your artist, 'Hey, I’m probably going to doze off, don't panic if I close my eyes!
Haha, you’d be surprised! Once the endorphins kick in and the 'rhythm' of the machine starts, it can actually be weirdly meditative for some people. Plus, if it’s a long session, the body just kind of gives up and decides a nap is the best way to handle it!
Lmao! I’m here