10/14/2026
Wish I could have finished this one. This is a progress shot from our first full-day session a few weeks ago. We’d already worked about 8 hours (generally my limit) so I didn’t want to rush through the details in the snakes on her Medusa. I explained we’d probably need another couple of hours and that even if it took longer I’d only charge for two.
Today I saw it healed for the first time in a month and it looked beautiful. There were a few spots I wanted to tighten up but everything was looking great.
Unfortunately after about 2 and a half hours her significant other came into the shop upset about paying for today’s session. He thought the entire tattoo had been paid for at our first appointment. Despite my explanation of what we’d discussed he made it clear no additional payment would be made.
Rather than let things escalate I ended the appointment. That meant leaving the snakes unfinished with about two more hours of work remaining. I didn’t get paid for today but what bothers me most is that I couldn’t finish a tattoo I was excited about and my client left with an unfinished piece.
For anyone unfamiliar with the process, paying for a tattoo session generally means paying for the artist’s time not necessarily a completed tattoo. Some artists charge flat rates while others charge hourly or offer full-day rates. Larger tattoos often take multiple sessions and it’s not always possible to predict exactly how long they’ll take. I’d rather schedule another appointment than rush through the details.
I think our industry could benefit from more consistency in pricing, expectations and professional standards. Every shop handles things differently and I understand how that can be confusing. I do my best to communicate clearly and keep improving my process but there’s always room for improvement.
I’m not posting this to shame anyone or make myself out to be a victim. I just wanted to share work I’m proud of and hopefully clear up some confusion about how tattoo sessions work.
Wish I’d gotten one last progress picture today because that first session healed beautifully.
Thanks to everyone who’s trusted me with their tattoos. I appreciate every one of you!!
