There are not lack of directories of tattoo studios and tattoo shops. So it is not hard to "find tattoo studio" per-se. However, it is difficult to tell which one has good tattoo artist and equipment.
After you've flipped your list of tattoo studios, the next thing to do is to visit them. Before you even enter a studio, get in your head that you are THE customer, and don't let anyone or the atmosphere intimidate you. A lot of tattoo studios are a small, a little dark and the people inside has all sorts of fierce looking tattoos. Go in confidently and look around. If you meet with mean artists, leave immediately. Getting a tattoo should be a pleasant event.
Next, do take a look around the shop. Akin yourself to window shopping. Look at the neatness of the stop. It is likely that there will be pictures and Flash (tatoo designs) all over the walls. There may also be price list and regulations. Look for signs that indicate sanitation. This is important in an age of infectious disease
If your have a good general feel, speak to the tattoo artist. Most of them are very helpful, especially when they know that you're having your first tattoo. Do note that however, they should not be your source of information for everything. You should have done your research on general tattoo stuff before you look for an artist.
If you're convince that you've found a nice artist, do ask to see their portfolio. Do not be impressed by illustrations. They are usually purchased from other artists who might not even do the tattoo job itself. You need to verify the work of your artist. The portfolio is a collection of photos of the artist's work. If they don't have one, beware.
Another way is to watch the end product live. If you're lucky, you might see a new customer with his or her new tattoo done. That's the best assessment you can get.
Some people think that it is bit rude to ask to see the artist's work. Rest assure, all good artist will be more than happy to show you their work. If you're proud of your work, why would you be upset. Remember this is a piece of art that is on Your body, and will last a long long time.
When looking at the pictures, check a few things 1) The lines should be clean and well-defined? 2) Are the borders uniform in width? 3) Are the colors realistic and bright? 4) Are the proportions correct?
If the tattoo artist has passed all these, and most importantly, you feel good about the artist. It's time to go ahead with your first piece of art.
P.S. As I've mentioned before, do you research before visiting your artist. Get some designs and choose roughly what you want. Better still, if you like a design, print it out and show your tattoo artist. Most people need at least a few hours before they choose the design for such an important event.
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