There is no set pricing on tattoos. There are many factors to consider when estimating costs. The size, amount of detail in the tattoo, amount of color, location on body (some body parts are more difficult to tattoo), and the artist experience and popularity.
The larger the size and/or amount of detail in a tattoo the more time it takes for the artist to complete the tattoo. Time is money. If they are stuck working on one client you have to figure they have to make sure they are making enough money to compensate for that time. These days many artist are charging by the hour rather then a set price on large and detailed pieces. Don't be intimidated by this, they are not likely to take their time to rack up charges. They want to get done as well. If you feel that they are taking their sweet time, you can always ask questions such as why is that area taking so long. It is all about negotiations and most artist are very understanding. If you are unable to to afford the full price of your dream tattoo, talk to the artist about setting up sessions that way you get a little work done at a time on a pay scale that you can afford. If you can only afford for an hour at a time, they will most likely set up appointments for you.
The amount of color and color blending involved in a tattoo can also determine in to the cost factor. Remember, every time they use a color ink the artist has take the color from the original bottle and add it to a container to use on you. Left over color not used can not be put back into the original bottle, it would contaminate the rest of the ink supplies with your bodily fluids. And color blending requires alot of technique which is time and practice which your artist has put into learning.
Location, location, location....we hear that in every aspect of our lives. Location is important. Certain parts of the body are more difficult to tattoo and some skin tissue takes more effort to get to absorb the ink. Such as the thick skin on the knee, not to mention that the knee cap moves alot making it more difficult. The palm of the hands is a thick skin that is difficult to tattoo. You also must realize that you hands shed skin cells often there for the tattoos appearance may fade quicker than most. Fingers are difficult due to size and boniness. The flatter and solid the surface the easier it is to tattoo. The thigh and calf are good areas. Most peoples upper arms are good areas. The lower back is an expensive area due to the stretch of the skin. If you lean forward the tattoo will lay one way if you sit up straight it moves another way. This requires an experienced tattoo artist.
And lastestly, the artist themselves and their popularity. The better the artist the more in demand they will be. This means slightly higher prices for high quality work. You wouldn't go pay top dollar to get a nose job done by a health teacher. No you wouldn't. You would find a certified plastic surgeon with credentials and experience. After all it is your face and life at risk. Same goes with tattoos. Your life could be at risk if precautions are not taken. If you want a high quality tattoo, you don't go to a jailhouse tattooist. The artist has expenses to run their buisness. They have to pay their shops rent, supplies (tattoo guns, ink, needles, ect.), utilities, payroll, ect. All these factor in. They have to make a living too. Dont expect free or cheap work from a professional.
Tattoos are an expensive addiction. Once you have one, you are likely to want another. So be prepared.
