The Complex Guide To Portrait Tattoos

Image via Complex Original

Portrait tattoos are a difficult proposition. When done correctly, these are among the most enviable of all inked images. Rushed, and tributes to favored musicians or fallen family members become laughter inducing fodder.

For example, we're all familiar with that NBA player whose grandmother portrait looks a bit like Biggie Smalls.

Despite distinct intricacies, portrait tattoos are not to be feared. Armed with the correct info, and anyone can find the proper artist for the job. Following our tattoo lettering guide, we spoke with BJ Betts to find out the key things to consider when preparing for a portrait tattoo.

Portraits illustrating this guide come from (left to right of above image) Bob Tyrell, Nikko Hurtado, and Eric Marcinizyn.... respectively, three of the best in the portrait game.

The Complex Guide to Portrait Tattoos.

Reading the Artist's Portfolio

Tattoo by Bob Tyrell.

BJ Betts says, "Just like with lettering, begin by checking out the portfolios. With portraits, this has to be taken a little more seriously. One little mistake, and the portrait fails. It is really noticeable. With another tattoo… for example with an eagle, if a feather is out of whack the tattoo can still work. However, with portraits there is a really fine line. There are no ok portraits. When you are looking, ask yourself 'is this the way the person is supposed to look?' Do the eyes look right? Perhaps look for a celebrity portrait. This will be easier to recognize. Do the eyes look right? Take your time."

What Resources Are Valuable?

Tattoos by Eric Marcinizyn.

BJ Betts says, "The combination of a bad photo and a under qualified tattooer will yield a bad result. The bigger the photo, the better when it comes to tattooing. Basically, the clearer the picture, the better the tattoo will be. We can't make magic from nothing. We can't add grandma's eyebrows without a clear photograph. Can't state it enough - the better the reference, the better the end result. Bring an 8 x 10 photograph or bigger, and then we can go smaller. For most of the people who are at the top of their game, the clearer the photo the more detail they can bring out. Especially true with a color portrait."

Color vs. Black and Gray

Tattoos by Nikko Hurtado.

BJ Betts says, "Black and gray portraits, when done right look amazing. Perhaps more than color. But, Nikko Hurtado is killing it with color. When it comes to color portraits, seek out the right person for the job. If you have to wait, wait. It is worth the time to get it right. Color portraits aren't for everyone. The black and gray will stand better over time. With sun and wear and tear, color will take a beating."

Portraits Require Patience

Tattoo by Bob Tyrell.

BJ Betts says, "It may take eight hours for the right portrait. A good portrait will be anywhere from (on a low end) four hours, and normally six to eight. Bob Tyrell might take twelve hours. Eric might take seven or eight. The end result also depends on your patience. It's a slow process. Portraits can't be rushed. 'It must take along time because of all that detail' is a cliche, but in this case it is absolutely true."

The Question of Placement

Tattoo by Eric Marcinizyn.

BJ Betts says, "The size of a fist is a good size portrait. Or softball size. These are good reference points. You'd mostly want it on a larger area, without creases or bends. Biceps, forearms, calfs. Those work best not just for you, but for the artist."