Animal motif tattoos are easily the commonest out there. Since the start of human civilization, animals have been heavily tied with symbolism.
We can even find that animals were depicted as deities, like in Ancient Egypt. Animal motifs later transferred to tattoos, which became a norm in many cultures.
Before you decide on one of these, knowing the meaning is an absolute must
Practical Tips for Choosing an Animal Tattoo
Knowing how to make a decision is a must, and we will provide you with some tips on how to do that.
Research Thoroughly
Thorough research is essential when choosing an animal tattoo. Knowing the exact symbolism and significance of the animal can help ensure that your tattoo resonates with you.
Look into various cultural interpretations and meanings of the animal to find one that aligns with your values and experiences.
The research can also help you avoid inadvertently choosing an animal symbol with a negative or unintended connotation.
Consult with a Tattoo Artist
Consulting with a professional tattoo artist is crucial to achieving the best result.
Discuss your ideas, color preferences, and desired techniques with the artist to ensure they understand your vision. A skilled artist can offer valuable insights and suggestions, helping you refine your design and choose the best placement for your tattoo.
Their expertise can also guide you in selecting colors and techniques that will complement your skin tone and enhance the overall look of the tattoo.
Consider Skin Tone
Your skin tone can significantly impact how certain colors appear in a tattoo.
Some colors may look vibrant and bold on lighter skin tones but might not show up as well on darker skin. Darker colors can create a striking contrast on lighter skin but may blend more subtly on darker skin.
When choosing your color palette, consider how the colors will interact with your skin tone to ensure your tattoo looks its best.
Discussing this with your tattoo artist can help you select a palette that will complement your complexion and achieve the desired effect.
Quality of Ink
Opting for high-quality inks is important for the longevity and vibrancy of your tattoo.
High-quality inks are less likely to fade over time and are often made with safer, non-toxic ingredients. Investing in quality inks can help ensure that your tattoo remains bright and well-defined for years to come.
Discuss the types of inks used by your tattoo artist and choose those known for their durability and color retention.
Style and Design
Deciding on the style and design of your tattoo is a crucial step in the process.
Whether you prefer a realistic depiction, a geometric pattern, a tribal design, or an abstract interpretation, the style should reflect your aesthetic preferences and personal taste.
Consider how the chosen style will complement the animal motif and enhance its symbolic meaning.
Reason for Getting an Animal Tattoo
When deciding on an animal tattoo, it’s important to consider the personal connection or significance the animal holds for you.
Here are the commonest options out there:
| Animal | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Wolf | Loyalty, family, community, wildness, and pack mentality |
| Butterfly | Transformation, change, rebirth, and new beginnings |
| Owl | Wisdom, knowledge, insight, and protection |
| Eagle | Freedom, vision, power, and clarity |
| Bear | Strength, courage, and leadership |
| Dragon | Power, wisdom, good fortune, and protection |
| Lion | Leadership, strength, and courage |
| Snake | Transformation, healing, and rebirth |
| Elephant | Wisdom, strength, tranquility, and memory |
| Fox | Cunning, adaptability, and cleverness |
| Horse | Freedom, endurance, and spirit |
| Tiger | Power, courage, and strength |
| Dolphin | Playfulness, intelligence, and community |
| Hawk | Vision, focus, and determination |
| Rabbit | Fertility, luck, and prosperity |
| Phoenix | Rebirth, immortality, and renewal |
Considerations for Placement
The final thing to consider is the placement.
Size and Scale
When choosing the placement for an animal tattoo, consider the size and scale of the design.
Larger animals, such as eagles and bears, are well-suited for bigger areas of the body like:
- Chest
- Back
- Thighs
These areas provide ample space for detailed work, allowing the artist to capture the full majesty and complexity of the animal.
On the other hand, smaller designs, such as butterflies or pandas, fit well on more compact areas like the wrists, ankles, or the nape of the neck.
These placements allow for a subtle and discreet tattoo, which can be easily covered or displayed depending on the occasion.
Pain Tolerance
Pain tolerance is another important factor to consider when choosing the placement of your tattoo.
Different areas of the body have varying levels of sensitivity, and some spots can be more painful to tattoo than others.
Areas with more nerve endings or less flesh, such as the ribs, spine, and ankles, tend to be more sensitive and may cause more discomfort during the tattooing process.
Areas with more muscle or fat, like the thighs, upper arms, and buttocks, generally experience less pain.
It’s important to discuss your pain tolerance with your tattoo artist and choose a placement that aligns with your comfort level, ensuring a more enjoyable tattooing experience.
Summary
Now that you are aware of all the relevant information on this subject, you can make a much easier decision.
We’re sure you will find this data to be of utmost help.
