How to get clients as a tattoo artist

Alright, let’s get real about what actually brings clients into your tattoo shop. Sure, social media might be buzzing, with tons of followers, likes, and the occasional viral post. But, let’s face it—that doesn’t mean a full schedule. You don’t need just followers; you need actual people from your area, who want your art permanently on their skin. That’s where Local SEO and Google Business Profile come in. It’s about being visible to folks who are already nearby and already looking for a tattoo artist. Let’s dive into how to make your shop irresistible to local clients and turn all that digital effort into real foot traffic.

5 Ways you can get more clients as a Tattoo Artist

1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile

When someone in your area searches "tattoo artist near me," you want to be the one they find first. Think of your Google Business Profile (GBP) as your digital storefront on the most popular street in town. Here’s the plan:

Claim and Verify

Step one: claim that Google Business Profile. The minute you’re verified, you’re officially on the map. Verification may mean waiting for a postcard or jumping on a call with Google, but it’s worth every second. Once you’re verified, you’re showing up where people are actually searching.

Pick the Right Category and Add Services

Google doesn’t work with guesswork, so make it crystal clear what you do. Choose categories like “Tattoo Artist” or “Tattoo Shop,” and add services. Be specific—“custom tattoos,” “cover-ups,” “portraits.” You want to appear in searches from people with specific needs, so don’t skimp here.

Show, Don’t Tell: Upload High-Quality Photos

You’re not just selling tattoos; you’re selling a vibe, a style, a studio experience. High-quality photos of your best work? Non-negotiable. Clients can’t be in your shop until they actually are, so these photos are their introduction. Showcase your style, your space, and even healed work, so they know what they’re getting.

Gather and Respond to Reviews

Reviews aren’t just nice-to-have; they’re your reputation on a silver platter. A steady stream of positive reviews can boost you right to the top of search results. Ask happy clients to leave feedback and respond to them all—yep, even the ones with complaints. It shows you’re serious about your service.

Keep Your Profile Active

Google rewards activity. Post regular updates—share new designs, special events, limited-time deals, or even tattoo care tips. Every post keeps your profile fresh and signals to Google that you’re open for business. Furthermore, Google Posts are a little image gallery that show potential clients at first glance the tattoo style that you are specialized in.

2. Local SEO: Becoming the Local Go-To Artist

If Google Business Profile is the welcome mat, Local SEO is the map to get them there. This isn’t about chasing viral fame; it’s about building roots. Here’s how to get search engines to love you locally:

Make Your Website a Local Destination

Think beyond just having a website—make it a local gem. Use phrases like “tattoo artist in [City]” or “custom tattoos in [Neighborhood].” These keywords should show up naturally in your website’s headers, meta descriptions, and content.

Create Hyper-Local Content

Blog posts like “The Most Popular Tattoo Styles in [Your City]” or “Tattoo Aftercare Tips for [Your City’s Climate]” make you a resource. Don’t overthink it—just talk to locals about things they care about in your own voice. When you create content like this, Google starts seeing you as the tattoo artist for your area.

NAP Consistency

Here’s an SEO secret: your name, address, and phone number (NAP) need to be exactly the same everywhere online. It may seem minor, but it builds search engine trust. Make sure it matches across Google, Yelp, social media, and every directory.

Leverage Schema Markup

Adding local business schema to your site’s code may sound like tech jargon, but it’s gold for local visibility. Schema markup basically tells Google exactly who you are and where you’re located. With this, you’re putting a big red pin on the map for search engines.

3. Social Media Marketing: Your Digital Portfolio

Social media is where you showcase, engage, and hook in those locals. But let’s keep it strategic—this isn’t about blasting your page with random tattoo pics. Here’s how to actually convert followers to clients:

Curate a Portfolio that Pops

Think of your social media as an open portfolio. Post only the best, cleanest, most eye-catching work. Show healed work to prove quality, close-ups to show detail, and variety to show range. Make your profile look like a gallery, not a mixed bag.

Local Hashtags and Geotags: Get Found Nearby

Use your location to your advantage. Tag each post with geotags and local hashtags like #YourCityTattoo or #TattooArtistYourCity. Don’t just shoot for the big tattoo hashtags—make sure you’re popping up in local feeds too.

Behind-the-Scenes

Take followers behind the curtain—show them the stencil process, your studio setup, or even your daily routine. This makes you more than an artist; it makes you real, approachable, and easy to trust. A peek behind the scenes can make people feel like they already know you.

Giveaways and Contests

A free tattoo or a discount on a future booking? Now, that’s enticing. Giveaways and contests are like beacons—they draw attention fast. Make it simple: follow, tag a friend, share. It’s organic marketing that pulls people right into your world and gives them a reason to stick around.

4. Partnerships: Teaming Up to Expand Your Reach Locally

When you collaborate with other local businesses, you’re not just cross-promoting; you’re building a network that benefits everyone involved. Here’s how to build these alliances strategically:

Align with Shops with Similar Clientele

Think about businesses that attract people who would want tattoos. Apparel stores, cafes, gyms—these spots can be goldmines for your target clients. Set up cross-promotions: a small flyer in each other’s spaces, a discount for customers of both, or a joint event. Make it mutually beneficial.

Art Displays and Merch

Offer to display tattoo-themed art or merchandise at partner businesses. Imagine your flash art on the walls of a popular coffee shop, or a small shelf with your branded merch. It’s low-pressure, passive marketing with major potential to catch the eye of the right people.

Host Joint Events

Events are like instant visibility boosts. Partner with a local store, bar, or gallery to hold a pop-up or showcase. Bring your portfolio, maybe even set up for quick consultations. When locals can meet you face-to-face, that connection becomes real—and booking a session becomes a no-brainer.

Guest tattoo artist

Think of traveling to other tattoo studios as a guest artist. This way you can get even more clients, not only from your local area. Use social media to promote your stay and ask the tattoo studio which is hosting to give you a shoutout on their profile and website!

5. Advertising: Smart Targeting for Instant Visibility

Paid ads can cut through the noise and help you land right in front of potential clients. Done right, these ads make sure your name is in their feed and on their mind when they’re ready to book. Here’s how to get the most out of paid ads:

Google Ads: Own the Local Search Results

Google Ads let you bid for top placement when people search “tattoo artist near me” or “tattoo studio [City].” You’re aiming to appear at the top when clients need you most, making you the first option they see. It’s fast-tracking yourself to the top of the results. Make sure you include an image to immediately stand out with your tattoo style!

Geotargeted Social Media Ads

Facebook and Instagram ads are ideal for laser-focused targeting. You can aim these ads right at people within a few miles of your shop, especially those who’ve shown interest in tattoos or related interests. Show off a recent design, promote a deal, or highlight a specialty—it’s all about catching their eye while they’re scrolling.

Influencer Collaborations

This one’s optional, but if you know local influencers who match your brand, team up. A shoutout from a trusted voice is often all it takes for potential clients to check you out. Offer a free tattoo or discount in exchange for a post or story about their experience. It’s like a personal endorsement that reaches way beyond your regular followers.

Conclusion

Your tattoo business doesn’t need thousands of followers scattered worldwide. It needs local clients who want your work on their skin—and they’re out there, searching, scrolling, and looking for their next artist. Focus on Local SEO, optimize your Google Business Profile, build your social media as a portfolio, team up with local businesses, and use targeted ads to meet them right where they are. Do this consistently, and watch as those followers turn into familiar faces walking through your door, ready to book.

If you're ready to boost your local SEO and start reaching more local clients, but you’re not sure where to begin, contact us. Our Local SEO software can help you optimize your online presence, drive foot traffic to your shop, and make sure your business is visible to clients who are already looking for a tattoo artist like you. Don’t leave potential clients hanging—get the support you need to fill your calendar with Obenan’s local SEO solutions.