How much does a portrait (animal) tattoo cost?

[Gayle M.]

I know this question is completely subjective but I am getting one in the summer, and I have saved up a little over $2000 for it so far. The portrait will be of my dog with tiny bows on her ears, fairly simple compared to human portrait tattoos. It will be in black and gray and will be about 4-5 inches on my ribs. The tattoo artist I am going to is extremely talented and specilizes in freehand I believe. (His work here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wickednee...55320121). If anyoen could estimate a price, and how long it may take, it would be greatly appreciated.

[Mitch]

I will just start by saying that the link did not work, but... I can give you some estimates based on personal experience


MOST artists will charge per hour. If they charge per color, per inch, per whatever... they aren't operating the right business. It's what's by hour that is usually put into the estimate of a tattoo. Although the size, color, detail, etc. will be put into an estimate, don't go to an artist that charges by the small things.

That said, a full portrait that is 4-5 inches on your ribs will take a fair amount of time. There will be shading, there will be color use, and will overall probably cost you upwards of $1,300. I have a chest piece that I will be adding to in the future, and it took 3 hours, is color/shaded/and about 4 inches tall by 5 inches wide. I paid $320 for it. It isn't that detailed, not like a portrait, but... it cost $320- my point is, that yours could be cheaper than 1,000 depending on the time factor. Some artists will like to just get the outline down, and have you come back to fill in the detail. This not only allows you some time to regain yourself (from the long tattoo session) but will also split up the financial costs. I haven't personally had a split session, but I know how they work.

IF there was a picture you could share, a rough sketch or something, I could probably give a better estimate. However, what I posted above is what I would consider to be accurate.
Something you could do is actually get a hold of the artist that you're looking for. They can give you their opinion, how much it'll cost, etc. etc. - and most are more than willing to work with their future customers!

Best of luck to you.