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Realism Tattoos in Calgary

Animals, portraits and custom pieces that look like a photograph, in black and grey and colour.

Realism Tattoo Questions

A realism tattoo recreates something the way it looks in real life, like a photograph on skin: animals, portraits, flowers and objects, built with fine detail and soft shading rather than bold outlines. It can be done in black and grey or in colour.

Kylie specializes in realism. Moose, the owner, does black and grey and colour realism and portraits, and Tonka works in black and grey and colour. Look through the work on this page and pick the artist whose style speaks to you.

Not in themselves. Realism usually takes longer, with more passes for the shading, so a long session can feel more tender by the end. Placement matters more: spots close to the bone or with thin skin tend to hurt more. More on tattoo pain.

The minimum shop charge is $120 plus tax for 15 minutes or less with one needle, and $150 plus tax for 15 to 45 minutes. Anything beyond 45 minutes is charged at the artist's hourly rate plus a $40 shop fee, then tax. Moose charges $200 an hour, Kylie and Keith $150 an hour. Deposits and other questions.

Yes. Consultations are free. Call the shop at (403) 474-6660 to make sure the artist is there, then swing by to chat. It helps to bring ideas, sketches or photos.

Walk-ins are welcome on a first come, first served basis, 7 days a week from 11am to 6pm. If we can't get you in that day, we will book you an appointment. Walk-in details.

Free Consultations

Consultations are free. We are happy to take a few moments and consult with you about your design. Please call the shop to make sure the artist is there, then swing by to chat. It also helps to send ideas, sketches or photos.

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