Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Visual Information: Tattoos (Week 5)

Visual Information: Tattoos



When taking pictures of tattoos there is no regard for the subject for which the art is on. The focus is only on the artwork. Placement is a key visual concept for tattoos. Line weight and detail is usually a significant focal point. This can determine the quality of the tattoo. Before and after pictures are very common with tattoos. A picture is taken right after the tattoo is done and one is taken after it has healed. This is important factor to see the end result. A tattoo can drastically change from when the ink is first applied compared to after a tattoo is healed. Everyone's skin is different. The ink settles into the skin in variations of color. Skin types can also determine the amount of detail that actually is absorbed. Different skin types do not take ink the same.

Considering the visual language of a tattoo, the tattoo itself is the only information the viewer needs to see. The subject is irrelevant, a tattoo can be anyone. Quality photo can also be a plus. There is a low standard to photo quality when concerning tattoos. Though, there is a growing appreciation for the art form. Quality on all levels from the tattoo to the documentation is is rising.

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