Guides
Preparing for a Realism Tattoo Consultation
What to bring, what to expect, and how to make the most of your first conversation with your tattoo artist.
A realism tattoo begins long before the needle touches skin. It begins with a conversation — the consultation — where your idea, your story and your artist's craft first meet. Here is how to arrive prepared, so that conversation is as productive and enjoyable as possible.
Know the story you want to tell
Realism tattoos are at their best when they mean something. Before your consultation, spend some time with the why behind your idea. You don't need a polished pitch — a feeling, a memory, or a subject you keep returning to is more than enough. At Leilani Tattoos & Art, every piece is custom, so the story you share becomes the raw material for the design.
Gather reference images — loosely
Bring a handful of images that capture the mood, subject or composition you're drawn to. These don't have to be tattoos; photographs, paintings and even film stills can communicate what words can't. Aim for five to ten references rather than fifty — a focused set tells your artist far more about your taste.
Think about placement and scale
Realism needs room to breathe. Fine gradients and detail hold up best at a certain size, and the flow of your body will shape the composition. Come with a preferred placement in mind, but stay open — your artist may suggest adjustments so the piece ages beautifully.
Be honest about your timeline and budget
Larger realism pieces are often completed over multiple sessions. Being upfront about your budget and availability lets the artist plan sessions realistically and design something that can be completed properly — not rushed.
Know the practical policies
A deposit is required to confirm your booking and begin the design process, and it applies toward your tattoo sessions. If you ever need to reschedule, 72 hours notice keeps your deposit intact. You can find the full details on our FAQ & policies page.
What happens after the consultation
Once your consultation is complete and your deposit is placed, the design process begins. You'll see the direction of your piece and minor refinements are always part of the process. Then comes tattoo day — calm, unhurried, and centred entirely on you.
Ready to begin? Share your vision through our consultation form and we'll take it from there. Trust the process.