Is Tattooing The Right Career For You? 

I’ve considered this career path for years now, I’m 25 and still directionless in life, but my creative drive and need to be creative in my work is a driving force for me and all your points I really agree with. I’m definitely going to work on pursuing this. Fuck it.

Being a tattoo artist means you put your stamp on any project you work on, which is amazing because people will remember you thanks to what you've done on them

THIS IS THE BEST VIDEO IVE WATCHED ON THIS TOPIC. you answered basically every concern that I had and even raised some points that I hadn't even considered. thank you bro, I needed this.

Two years into my tattoo journey. I've just done my first tattoo on a buddy after several stabs at fake skin. This video has given me exactly what I needed to hear not to give up and to double down on finding a mentorship. And practicing better self discipline! I'm grateful for your words of wisdom.

Just turned 18 and getting my first tattoo, I've had an insane passion for art my whole life. The thought that the only way I could make a living as an artist was by working a corporate job was soul crushing. Then I was told I should become a tattoo artist and now I'm so excited about this career. Thank you for this video, everything about tattooing sounds like the best path for me. So excited to get into it!

I can confirm the first point you made. I am currently working as a freelance artist for animations studios, the main one being Aardman (the studio behind "Wallace and Gromit"), and I have pretty much decided to switch over to tattooing, for the exact reasons you mentioned.

Man, that point about loving to learn the new things at a job, then coming up with ways to become really good and efficient at it, then it just feeling boring and monotinous sure hit home. I used to LOVE drawing growing up too. Even got pretty good at it for my age at the time. Im in awe of all the art i see people put out now! I should really get some supplies and/or an art tablet and start up again. At least with art ill never get bored of learning!

This really solidified it for me, thank you for making this video for all of us!

Thanks for the video man, you're always very well spoken and informative. I'm still on my artistic journey and you're a big help

You have explained me exactly thank you for what you do for the community sir. Stay awesomeness!!!!

This was a lot of good information and perspectives on what it’s like in the process of being and becoming a tattoo artist. I really appreciate you putting out this information.

This is so helpful. I’m currently adding to my portfolio for a possible tattoo apprenticeship and these are all great points, some I never even thought about. Thank you!! Excited to go and watch more of these videos ❤

This 1000% was the best video I’ve watch on tattooing. I have a job I hate and it’s always been my dream to share my art with the world but also make people happy. This made me feel better about starting and learning and making this a career choice

Extremely helpful video, thank you man. Giving the pros and cons from an inside perspective really helps. Your point about the schedule and being an independent/entrepreneur type really helped in considering if this is for me. I really appreciate the time and thought out into this video.

THANK YOU!!! This definitely gives me an extra boost of confidence to keep going! I truly appreciate it! Much love 🙏🏻 ❤️

On point! You're like the inner monologue of my mind, that managed to break through with a clear, concise and in depth explanation of how I feel and who I am as a person. I only wish I had pursued this path earlier in my life, but it's never to late to live how you need to. Seriously, life changing video. Thank you, James! 🤙

Thanks James. That video was really helpful. I appreciate all the time you took to put it together for us who are thinking of this path.

This made me feel so validated and affirmed in considering tattooing!!!

I love this video❤ honestly I haven’t heard someone speak these hard truths the way you did and although some might feel discouraged by the second part (cons) that’s actually the part that inspired me the most! Honestly this helped me wanting to pursue this career even more. Thank you!!

The best video I ever seen.. I’ve always had a passion for art, but never knew what to do with my art . Didn’t want to be bored! But I’ve always wanted to do tattoos and now I’m 30 and I fill like what you gave me as a motivational uses, definitely I can a applied now to my life!! Thank you 🙏🏽

Best video I’ve seen on this topic. Thank you!

James, even though you feel this was a long video, I feel it really helped me w/ my researching on this topic. I’ve been drawing all my life & for the past 2 years I’ve been really thinking about tattooing. My passion for drawing & attention to detail is far beyond. Just want to say thank you for making a video you didn’t have to make.

I've been wanting to be a tattoo artist for a while because I thought it would be a career path that suited me and this was really validating, thank you!

Dope video. Interesting to hear the side of the tattooer and the thoughts behind the craft. Thanks for putting the work into the videos James 🤙

James, I don't have any tats and no plans to get any but you are a great speaker, organized, confident, informative and entertaining. Bravo! I do what I do for the same reasons you lay out that tattoo artists have the passion to do their craft. I can relate to this entirely. It's great to be your own boss and own all of it, the responsibility, the struggle, making it work when you do have a zero day, doing your utmost for the client and reaping the rewards of getting that repeat biz, the word-of-mouth, etc. I'm an editor and working for myself finally after working for others my whole life (64 now). For all you creatives who can be grownups and work your butts off and be client-focused and humble, go for it!

thank you for this!! i really liked what you said about the "laid back" part. i guess i never considered it "laid back" but i dont mind doing hard work. to me i guess i thought of it as "laid back" because i get to be who i want, be creative, and not be micromanaged. still a lot to consider but your video has helped a lot more than some others i've seen where they make it out to be impossible to get into. you realistically laid out the pros and cons!

The “be unapologetically yourself” is a reason I loved getting tattoos. You can be who you are! It’s what drew me to the industry because I fucking HATE going to work and having to put a face on like you said! It drains me so bad.

This video is gold. I look forward to other vids you create within this “series”.

Thank you for sharing this.. I'm an aspiring Tattoo Artist, and I've got 8/20 pages of my portfolio complete. Any advice is so appreciated at this point, and I really enjoyed your point of view. I think the biggest hurdle for me is sharing my art with others and getting past the "imposter syndrome" feeling.. Your video has motivated me to keep pushing forward 🎉❤✨️ Thank you 😊

Really appreciate you making this man. Been pretty nervous about starting to search for an apprenticeship lately, but this has given me a hell of a lot more confidence. Didn't even realize there were walk-in-shops vs appointment-onlys (I'm looking to eventually be appointment only and do more stylized stuff, not so interested in doing standard flash work). Sorry for the fucking paragraph, but thanks again for the insanely helpful info~

INCREDIBLE VIDEO MAN, thanks for the inspiration for real! I just subscribed and can’t wait for you to keep making these videos and spread positivity and motivating. Thanks again man! Very humble thoughts 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

Thank you so much for making this video! This is what I need.

Original and informative video from an insider’s perspective. Thank you!

I’m 16 and I’ve wanted to be an animator since I was like 5, but seeing how the animation industry (aka. Cartoon Network) has been going lately, I’ve been trying to think of other things I can do as my career and this really helped out a lot

This vid really motivated me to continue my path to become a tattooist. All of the points resonated with me and I’m passionate about this. Thank you :3

Hey James this video was great, real and informative. I’ve been searching for an outlet Art career and this is definitely for me. This is day 1 of becoming a Professional Tattoo Artist Career. Thank you

Your videos are wholesome. Your voice helps me relax a lot. Great video

Everything in this video applies to me. It’s like I was born for this. I have also loved art and everyone I know, knows that I am the art guy. I am very passionate about this. Thanks for the video bro

That was great man! Thanks for all the info, very insightful! I can’t wait to get started on this new journey. ✌🏼

Thanks man...!!! Every word you say it s important!

This is a was a sign for me to keep going and never stop believing 🙏Thank you

I fkn love it! You kept it real and I appreciate you being genuine! Let’s go!

Thanks for an honest discussion of pros and cons how you see it. Very helpful

Man! Thanks so much for saying exactly what I needed to hear!

Dude thank you for making this video. I am at a major fork in the road in my life and this helped me alot.

I'm a soon-to-be college dropout to pursue tattooing. It was my dream before college and it's my dream now. I did three semesters here as an art ed major and holy fuck I don't want to teach. I just want to create, and this career lets me do that and make consistent money after getting the clientele 1 month update: I dropped out officially, got a bunch of money out of nowhere. I'm working on my portfolio now and have three weeks before I start up a part-time job. In the meantime, I'm preparing for a trip to New Zealand for this March! A family friend offered me some work before I head back to work to make some extra money so I'll have an occupation outside just working on the portfolio and finding a place to apprentice

Thank you for your video and especially for the crucial/critical part where you talk about "for who this isn't" .

Thank you for sharing your knowledge. It will be put to good use for a lot of US that aspire to become a good tattoo artist. GRATITUDE!! STAY LIFTED 🤘

I don't usually comment on videos but I had to say thank you. I've been considering this career path for awhile now but I feel like this video has pushed me to really sit and think "I can do this. This is within reach for me and I just need to get out of my head and do it". I'm passionate about art and especially tattooing and this video has been the biggest ah-ha moment yet. Thank you so much again and keep inspiring people

This is pure gold. Thanks for this, brother.

Thank you so much for the video!! I finally pulled the trigger on tattooing and I absolutely love it so far!! Only been at it a month, but I am all in! ❤️🤟

This was the most helpful video I’ve seen so far on tattooing

I just quit my corporate job to go all in on tattooing. Thanks for the info & inspiration 🙏

This man said "even if you get locked up there is still a demand" rofl. For real thoe I like how you end on a high note. With the "no one going to hold your hand". Your good shit man 👊 keep it up 😀

Thank you soooo much for this video... It is exactly what I needed to hear

Thanks a lot for this video! a lot of these stuff didn't crossed my mind.

I definitely wish I watched this before I started tattooing. Everything you've said is 100% facts

This actually made me want to become one even more, everything you just said lined up w me. Thanks for the vid!

This is exactly the job for me. Thank you so much. I wish there was a way to keep up with you and show my progress. From this day forth 06/04/2024 I will be a tattoo artist and I will work on it every day.

Cool video, man. You just say the right things everytime, very inspiring.

Thank you! This really motivated me to keep working on my apprentice portfolio

I needed to see this video. It gave me so much clarity. I’ve been a creative since birth. Drawing, painting, photography, pottery, jewelry making, glasswork, etc - I’ve dabbled in a lot. Went to an art college. Got my degree in Interior Architecture bc I wanted to do something art related that guaranteed a paycheck. By the end of college I was feeling a heavy lack of motivation for the field. Got a job relating to it anyway, and convinced myself I was doing the right thing. I left after a year bc I wasn’t happy and wanted more freedom. I’ve always flirted with the idea of being a tattoo artist, but would never really dive into the idea. Now I am & this video helped me realize it’s what I need to be doing bc everything that was mentioned resonated with me completely so thank you 🫶🏻

Hey James, great video. I look forward to see where you take this new series as I am looking into becoming a tattoo artist.

Thanks for the inspiration! I really appreciate it.

This was so helpful! Thank you!

I’ve been tattooing for 17 years. You’re video helped me knock the jade off. Thank you.

After receiving my first few tats and knowing that I not only have the talent and drive, I'm going into tattooing. It's such a time honored tradition (both artistically and culturally). I've been in the corporate field ever since I graduated from college but my true love is in art and I loved doing it growing up. Luckily I live in Portland and there are TONS of great studios with amazing talent.

I am so glad you did this video! I have considered tattooing for a while and have always done art throughout my life, i just never really knew a lot about the industry apart from people i know that work in it and what they have said. I think i will definitely push myself even further to go down this path. Everything you have mentioned some of it i knew and some of it i was like ok yea that makes sense. So Thankyou so much for helping!! 😊

First video I see of your and you definitely won my follow and subscription🙌🏽

Your videos are really informative. Dope!! 💯

Nothin but love for the ppl that paved the way, so a brutha like me can get it today 🙏🙏✍🙌

Thank you for this video great pep talk

Damn all the points you made on why this might be a good career choice sounds just like me. I love creating visual art. I get bored very quickly at jobs cuz I'll have it figured out in a month or so and be done with it. Like everything you said just completely agrees with me. Plus people have told me since was 12 I should tattoo. I've been drawing my whole life and I can't really see myself doing anything else. Omg...

sitting getting my tattoo done, seeing my artist have all the other artists walk around talking and enjoying eachothers work. talking 1 on 1 with my artist during the appointment. it's the kind of connectivity i crave. me being good at art is just a coincidence

already watched twice , really make sense buddy, thank you

I'm a senior in high school, and I keep asking myself if this is the career for me. And like every thing about it is really speaking to me. You've really put it it to prospective that this Is the carrier that fits me, thank you sm man.

Only watch your vids as a client, but I appreciate that you are producing this type of content for folks.

There is a reason why things come to you when you are ready from them…I am finally ready for this one. Thank you for your information and it will help in my journey.

I've always liked tattoos, and the inner workings of what's happening during a tattoo. I've always liked the art, and I'm an artist myself, but I never thought my art "fit" the tattoo styles I see. It's such a different ballgame to make a composition for a body part rather than a canvas. I watch lots of Ink Master lately, and it's kind of showed me the possibility of getting into this as a career, because I saw someone draw the way I do, and follow the composition rules in a way I would. I've been having so much trouble finding a regular job, I just got my Associates of Science in 3D Animation so that I can make video games, but I'm having trouble finding a coder. I'm so unmotivated that I started looking into maybe not making video games, at least for a while, at least until I get myself in a stable place with income. I just don't know whether or not I should really dive in yet. In the meantime I'm going to be working on my portfolio, but that's all I got.

Thank you for this video!

Love it cause I've been tattooing as an hobby tattoo artist for 14 years and love to tattoo ,draw pencil sketches and paint. But I also run my handyman buisness for my main income and tattoo stuff just cause I love art. I'm going to be 40 soon and I started pencil sketches in first grade then paintings in 4th grade. Never thought I would tattoo tell I had to pass time in prison! Great videos brother and love your art

Thank you James!

this really makes me want to be a tattoo artist even more !

You just made this career sound even better

Very good video, and gives me one challenge to face (emotional strength to tune out naysayers that are close to me). One thing that came to mind that wasn't mentioned was if someone has the ability to handle other people (customer service). That can be a tricky one for more introverted artists because I am sure a lot of clients enter the studio with certain expectations and anxiety.

hey James, have you ever considered doing some kind of tattoo tour video of your own ink, I think we would all like to see something like that, your tattoos look sick!

I’ve not long started my apprenticeship :) been doing it for just over a month so far!

Thank you for clearly being honest about tattoos on dark skin. I am a coffee color African American. A Magnolia tattoo will be my preference as it is my first to cover a small 10 year old scar. Scar about 5 inches & I am preparing my upper left back for this tattoo. Any advice you can give will greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Thanks for the insight bro.

Im an artist for many years, pretty much my life. I've done a bit of everything I can get passionate behind, and now I am persuing a tottoo carrer mainly because I've had the itch for so long...and I ran out of excuses to not try it. Right now it's the artist job that is making the most money, witch is also an inspiration, even if it's hard at the beginning. I strive to be better and make that bank. To try out a life of freedom of creativeness is exciting, and stressful cause of the pressure of all the clients and all the stuff, but that makes it fun because it's different everyday... murals, paintings for people is the same, it's a hustle. I've made a handful of tats so far, and its harder than it looks, but it's so awesome that feeling afterwards... Of accomplishment... I'm still learning and hope to grow. Thank you for this video, it's the truth deep within the truth behind this art path. I too only make art fully conscious, focused and with a Lazer mindset to do my best. I hope I make it.

I’m in love with traditional tattoo style and I’ve been drawing and painting it for more than 6 years. I’ve even been uploading to RU-vid tutorials on how to draw this style for more than year and half regularly and got less than 500 subs. The thing is, I live in Eastern Europe and nobody gives a shit to this tattoo style and it’s just frustrating. As a tattoo artist, I have to make realistic tattoos to make money (I don’t mind it but not passionate about). But I suffer from not making what I love. I do acrylic on canvas paintings, pencil/markers drawings, do commissions on fiverr (and western customers seem to like it) but my tattoo career is a failure. I know that tattooing is the right job for me but it’s just not working out. Sorry for bithching here, it’s just sad for me. I really enjoy your videos ❤️

Thank you for making this video! I'm a young artist, still a student,but I'm already thinking about what I'll do for a living and I really like the idea of being a tattoo artist. Thanks to your video I have less concerns about wether or not this is an option for me and I think it is. I need to look at the techniques of tattooing more first though

i remember the first tattoo artist i ever met laughed at me when i said i wanted to be a tattoo artist. he told me not to go into the career for money, just like one of the points you made. but mannnn let me tell you @8:30 , my dream

This was an informative video. I have the passion for the arts. I'm just curious how I'll do under pressure. However, I'm so new and it's only the beginning. Thanks for sharing your video!!

I'm passing this video to my kid thanks for all the info bro she needs to hear this

This is helpful. I have that itch and it’s insatiable, I know I just need to focus it on something helpful for me and I’m pretty sure tattooing is the route. I know graphics and all the other jobs would be cool too but your right I’ve legit met someone who works for Pixar and his like only job is to do the lighting in animations which is important obviously but feels mundane. this feels like a better use of my talents and needs. It feels tough in the right way, not in a way where I have to work myself up a pyramid and sell my soul to my boss in order to get there but that my ever growing skills will take me where I need to be, at least in this industry.

Thanks a lot for the video!

I’m glad you made this video.

Thanks mate! This vid has strengthened my resolve to atleast learn the skills required to be able to Tattoo people. The thing about boredom in a well-paying ''regular' Job and passion for Art are literally the reasons i started to look into Tattoing. And really- Tattoos are an underappreciated Art Form - One of the very few forms of art where the visuals, meaning, process and artists' skill define the worth of an artwork - because unlike other art forms, the chance that some dimwitted rich people turn the work of a mediocre artist into overrated investment products are pretty low when it comes to tats. Also WTF - There are Artists out there tattooing while they're not sober? - Hell i don't even dare drinking while doing decorative Paint on someone's Furniture!

The first bit of the video is really inspiring. I must agree I don’t like work environment, where they train you to be clones. Dress the same way; speak the same way.. specially a boss that keeps nagging for every single thing. That was a great input to share ✨✨