Emphasis on Lifelike Detail

Both realism and portraiture tattoos prioritise creating a tattoo that closely resembles real life. Fine details in shading, texture, and light are essential in both styles to achieve a convincing, true-to-life effect.

Complex Shading and Depth

Both styles rely on advanced shading techniques to add dimension and depth, making the tattoos appear three-dimensional. This involves understanding light sources, shadow placement, and layering of tones to capture a natural look on the skin.

High Level of Artist Skill Required

Realism and portraiture tattoos demand technical precision and a deep understanding of anatomy and perspective. Small mistakes can distort the intended realism, so these styles are typically executed by highly skilled artists with experience in fine detail work.

Time-Consuming Process

Due to the intricacy and detailed shading involved, both realism and portraiture tattoos generally take longer to complete. Sessions may span several hours or multiple sittings, especially for larger pieces.

Large Canvas Requirement

Both styles are best suited to larger areas of the body, where there’s enough space to capture all the necessary detail. This makes it easier for the artist to work with fine lines and create smooth, gradual shading.

Emotional or Personal Connection

While realism can include a wide range of subjects, from nature scenes to objects, and portraiture focuses on faces and figures, both often carry personal significance for the wearer. Realistic tattoos of objects, animals, or people capture specific memories or meaningful symbols, while portraiture tattoos frequently immortalise loved ones or icons.

In essence, realism and portraiture tattoos share a commitment to capturing life as closely as possible, bringing images to life with depth, precision, and a high degree of artistic skill. Portraiture is a focused sub-style within realism that emphasises faces or figures, while realism as a broader style encompasses a wider variety of subjects.