Chapter One Tattoo

Color Realism Tattoos: History and Designs

A picture is worth a thousand words, and when you want an image on your body for a lifetime, color realism tattoos are one of the most realistic ways to go. All tattoos are personalized masterpieces, and when choosing a color realism tattoo it’s important to know the technique and common designs of the style. Color realism tattoos are vibrant, eye-catching, and unique ways to immortalize an image in the most commemorative way possible. But what makes a tattoo a color realistic tattoo and where did they originate?

Color realism tattoos are a relatively modern tattoo style with countless designs possible. Chapter One Tattoo is an industry leader in color realism tattoos and the perfect place to get a color realistic tattoo. Let’s explore the rich history of color realism tattoos, popular design ideas, and factors to consider before getting one of these vibrant pieces. Due to their artistry and necessary technique, color realism tattoos require an experienced tattoo artist that can create a true masterpiece. Chapter One Tattoo, nestled in the heart of Ocean Beach, stands out as one of the most accomplished color realism studios in San Diego. 

What is a color realism tattoo?

The style of color realism tattooing creates one of the most life-like tattoos you can get. Color realism tattoos can be photo-realistic or done in a painter’s style that conveys realism without being a photocopy of an image. The goal of a realism tattoo is to capture details by using the proper technique to to make a tattoo look like a real life object, image, or photograph. Color realism boasts bright and vibrant colors, as well as color mixing, to capture an image identically.  

As with most tattoo styles, almost any design can work, it is up to the tattoo artist’s skill and proper technique to turn the design idea into a masterpiece. Some of the most popular color realism tattoos are nature scenes and portraits as they feature a higher level of detail. The stencils tattoo artists use for color realism often look a far cry from what the actual tattoo will look like. Stencils will have many more lines of contour and shadows mapped out to help guide them during the tattooing process. This allows the final product to look almost 3-dimensional on the skin by using proper color saturation.

history of color realism Tattoos

 

Black and gray realism is similar to color realism and can create some vivid images, but color inks create a “hyper realistic” design. Inspiration for color realism tattoos come from the great painting masters: Rembrandt, Michelangelo, Da Vinci, etc. Many of the same techniques implemented by these prolific artists inspired color realism theory and technique. Photorealism became popular in the 1960s and 70s in opposition with the abstract art movement, which in turn also heavily inspired photorealistic designs within tattooing. After the popularization of Pop Art in the 80’s color realism and photorealistic designs became much more sought after in tattoo designs and continue to be very popular today.

Popular color realism Tattoo Ideas

Since color realism is a style of tattooing, design choices are expansive and entirely personal. Color realism designs are based entirely on a realistic image, object, person, or scene, so illustrious diversions are limited. Color realism tattoo designs defer from creativity and instead seek to replicate an image, whether it’s a photo, artwork, or otherwise. Designs are up to personal preference, and color realism steps in to transfer the design to the desired location on your body. Movie lovers might want a scene or performer tattooed while an avid hiker might want a photorealistic wolf. Nature, religious figures, celebrities, personal photos of loved ones, astronomy, and famous landmarks scratch the surface in terms of design ideas that are great for color realism tattoo designs.

How do color realism Tattoos age?

 

While color realism tattoos are vibrant and eye catching pieces of art, this style of tattooing carries one caveat. When thinking about the longevity of the tattoo’s design in regards to how quickly the tattoo will fade, black ink will withstand the test of time the longest. Color realism tattoos, however, utilize a large spectrum of ink colors outside of black ink. The inks used determine how long the tattoo will look realistic, and since color realism tattoos use light shading and less saturation, they might require touch ups down the road if they’re not taken care of properly. Those interested in color realism tattoos should be careful about keeping the tattoo out of direct sunlight, applying sunscreen, and taking care of the tattoo to keep it looking its best as the years go on.

how to choose the best color realism tattoo?

Any tattoo design that embraces the realism style should be an image that you’re positive you’ll be happy to have on you for a long while. Make sure to research different interpretations of your idea to get an idea of the full scope of work needed. Once a design and location have been chosen, make sure to select an experienced color realism tattoo artist near you that has a portfolio that coincides with your design ideas. By providing prospective artists with reference photos or images they can give you an idea if they’re able to provide the appropriate services. Color realism is one of the most complex and difficult tattooing styles, so make sure to choose a trustworthy artist like the experienced Chapter One tattoo team.

Book an Appointment with a color realism Artist in san diego at Chapter One Tattoo!

With an experienced team handcrafted by highly dedicated veterans, Chapter One Tattoo offers their clients color realism tattoos they can be proud of and that can last a lifetime. Chapter One Tattoo prides itself on our vibrantly designed color realism tattoos and trusted team of realism artists. Check out the Chapter One team that specializes in color realistic tattoos and book an appointment today! 

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