Five things are enough for a first message: your idea, the placement, a rough size, a couple of references and when you're available. That way the artist can give you a rough price and suggest a consultation without a dozen follow-up questions. “How much is a tattoo?” with no details is a question nobody can honestly answer.
Why your first message matters
Artists read messages between sessions, sometimes dozens a day. The clearer yours is, the faster and more accurate the reply. You don't need to write a perfect message or know the terminology — just tell them the essentials.
A brief “I want a tattoo, how much?” leads to five rounds of questions and answers. A message with the details gets you a rough price and an invitation to a consultation straight away.
What to write
Before you hit send, check that your message includes:
If it's your first tattoo, say so: the artist will explain in more detail how everything works. If your idea hasn't taken shape yet, start with “Shaping your tattoo idea”.
An example message
“Hi! I'd like a small fine-line olive sprig on my outer forearm, about 8–10 cm. I'm attaching three pictures: I love how delicate the lines are, but I don't want shading. This is my first tattoo. Weekday evenings after six work for me, and I'm happy to do an online consultation.”
A message like this is enough for the artist to understand the idea, estimate how long the work will take and give you a rough price. You don't need to tell the whole story — save that for the consultation.
How to attach references
Pictures can say more than words, but only if you make it clear what matters to you in each one.
- attach three to five pictures, not your whole folder;
- for each one, add a note saying exactly what you like: the lines, the composition, the mood;
- include one or two you really don't like — that's a useful hint too;
- if the placement matters, send a photo of that area of your body.
For help finding images and using them without copying someone else's work, see “Tattoo references”.
What to ask the artist
Messaging is a conversation, not an application form. If the artist hasn't already told you, ask:
- Do you work in this style?
- What's the rough price for this size and placement?
- Do you take a deposit, and on what terms?
- Roughly how long will the session take?
- How do the consultation and design process work?
More on price in “What goes into the price of a tattoo”, and on deposits in “Deposit and booking rules”.
What not to write
- “How much is a tattoo?” — without the placement, size and a picture, there's no honest answer to that.
- “Make it exactly like the photo” — copying someone else's work isn't done; it's better to ask for your own version.
- “I need it tomorrow” — most artists are booked up weeks ahead.
- A five-minute voice note without a single picture — it's hard to listen to between sessions.
- Haggling in your first message — first find out what you're getting for that price.
I find it easiest to reply when a message includes the placement, size and a couple of pictures. Then I can give you a rough price straight away and offer a free consultation. We can meet at the studio in Vračar, Belgrade, have a video call or chat by message, whichever suits you.
If the artist takes a while to reply
The artist may be in the middle of a long session, so the reply might come in the evening or the next day. If you haven't heard back after several days, send one short reminder rather than repeating everything. If they still don't reply, you may want to look for another artist.
Frequently asked questions
People ask about the first message more often than you'd think. Can't find your question? Message me on Telegram or Instagram. I reply personally.
Can I message several artists at once?
Yes, that's fine. Just don't forget to reply to the ones you've decided not to go with — one line is enough.
Should I send a photo of the area straight away?
It's not essential, but it helps if there's already a tattoo, a scar or a mole there. That way the artist can see straight away how to fit the design in.
What if I don't have a single reference?
Describe the mood and the placement in words. The artist will ask questions or suggest pictures themselves.
Do I have to book after they reply?
No. Messaging and a consultation don't commit you to anything; the decision is still yours.
