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Arguably one of the most popular tattoo styles today is the realism tattoo style. Unlike traditional, old-school, Japanese, or every other tattoo style in the ink world, realism tattoos, as you can tell by the name, distinguish themselves by their often hyper-realistic, lifelike appearance. Though the subjects of lifelike tattoos can be infinite, the only requirement is that the tattoo looks as close to photorealistic as possible.
How is that achieved? Photo realism tattoos ought to be as accurate and detailed as possible. Hence, it only makes sense that realistic tattoos require a highly skilled hand. Outlines do not exist in the real world; thus, they are rarely (if ever) used in realism-style tattoos. To separate the subjects of the tattoo, masters in the hyper-realistic tattoo style entail a lot of shading, way more than any other tattoo style would require. Thus, with the amount of shading necessary to achieve the desired effect, hyper-realistic tattoos take considerably longer to complete than other tattoo styles. And because of all the detailing, realism tattoos require extra aftercare to prevent them from fading. Therefore, getting a realistic tattoo as your first is generally not recommended, considering it’s not a “one-and-done” type of tattoo session. Still, the end result is very much worth it.
If you are considering getting one or simply enjoy looking at the lifelike ink reproductions on the skin, you will undoubtedly appreciate seeing the many realism tattoo ideas we have gathered below. What do you think about realism-style tattoos? Perhaps you’re planning on getting a realism tattoo yourself? Let us know in the comments! And, as always, let us know your favorite realistic tattoos from the list by giving them an upvote!
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Beautiful Boy Toby
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#3
Crazy Realistic Statue Piece
#5
Everyone’s Favourite Giant Hagrid As Played By The Incomparable And Greatly Missed Robbie Coltrane
#6
Full 360 Wraparound Choker
Shadozfire 2 years ago
I think the whole point is to never have to wear another necklace ever again! Absolutely stunning!
#10
My Dog, Mike Teilwigger. Dutchman Tatto, Long Island New York
#11
Curado Tattoo
#12
Golden Balloon Dog Tattoo
#15
Healed Big Peonnie
#19
Magnificent Egyptian Chest Piece
#21
Viking And Nature Mix
#23
Tesla - Sergio Sanchez - Archive Studios Los Angeles California
Dak Janiels 2 years ago
This is AMAZING, and one of the more deserving for a tattoo considering he's a significant Father of America's technological progress.
#24
Space Turtle
#25
Panda Munching On Bamboo
#27
Mother & Father Tattoo
#29
Big And Unusual Project
Micaela Royo 2 years ago
This reminds me of that Scooby Doo movie where theyre in Tokyo and they have to fight this giant samurai ghost
#30
Goddess Of Victory
#32
Banjo Tooie Realistic Patchwork
#35
Back Tattoo That Took 4 Days
#38
A Cover Up Tattoo Of A Golden Girl
Jennifer Clayton 2 years ago
I don't remember this Golden Girl. Is it from a Blanche flashback? Maybe one of Sofia's memories..."Picture it! Sicily, 1926..."
#39
Masked Fighter Woman
#40
Wise Man Collage Full Back Tattoo
#41
"Hyenas Life"
#43
My Head Tat Done By Corey Cuc At Hot Rod Tattooing In Martins Ferry Ohio
#44
The Goblin King By Leah Marie At Higher Love Tattoo In Cincinnati, OH
#48
A Portrait Of A Family Member
#49
African Collage
#50
Compass On A Map
#51
Senna Tattoo
#52
Took Inspiration From The Phantom Troupe And Got My Own Version Of The Tattoo
#53
From The “A Cure For Wellness” Movie
#54
"The Balance Of Your Brain And Your Heart"
Shikonah Serigala 2 years ago
...okay but the top of the zipper should be open and that would bug me for the rest of my life
#55
Wise Man Tattoo
#57
Unfnished Mansion And Graffiti Tattoo
#58
"Bill Evans, William John Evans"
#60
Christopher Lloyd As Uncle Fester
#61
Mask Tattoo
#62
O' Fortuna by John Embry. Muse & Myth. Louisville, KY
sherry powers 2 years ago
Been thinking about getting a tattoo and have a day trip planned to Louisville next weekend. Might check this place out.
#63
Japanese Inspired
#64
Money Girl
#65
A Jumper And A Nuthatch, By Gretta At Grettaalva Studios, Ottawa, Canada
#73
"Real Eyes Realize Real Lies"
#74
Last Templar
#78
Santa Carla
Susan Atkinson 2 years ago
One thing that always bothered me about Santa Carla, all the Damn Vampires!--- Lost Boys
#91
Cog Mechanicus By Luis Nunez, Certified Tattoo Studios, Denver, CO
#96
All Your Ideas Are Doable!
#98
"Blessed" Tattoo
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