When you visit a tattoo parlor or look at an online tattoo gallery, you find that there is a wide range of tattoo styles available and a massive range of styles to choose from. The usual criteria used for choosing tattoos is usually its size, the love for someone, depicting a certain culture or sect or as a status symbol.

Men prefer strong and powerful styles of tattoos:
Men prefer to use identity symbols more than decorative devices that have traditional images like snakes, black panthers and eagles. The most popular option in men are skulls, daggers dripping blood, dragons and basically any image that depicts male strength and valor. Heart tattoos are best used to depict love for both men and women. This is a tattoo that has endured the test of time and is still growing in popular. Tribal styles are becoming more and more popular.

The symbol depicting mystery, power, wisdom and good will is the dragon tattoo. This is because dragons are considered to be good luck and have qualities including strength and courage.

Animal tattoos are the most popular of all.  This is because animal tattoos relate to animals that we use to demonstrate the inner connections we have with fine beasts and the similarities we exhibit with these animals. Snake tattoos and reptiles are becoming more and fashionable.

Similarly, bird tattoos have lots of reverence in the tattoo world. Some of the most popular bird tattoos are the eagle, dove, swallow and birds of prey tattoos. Once again, the nature and attitude of the birds are taken into consideration when choosing the bird tattoo.

Women prefer floral styles of tattoos:
Women prefer having floral tattoos and styles of tattoos that are a lot subtler in nature. Other options are of cherry blossom, lotus flower tattoos, blossom, lily and tree tattoos.

Sea creatures are very popular that people like wearing. Sea creature tattoos connect us with our past and the mythical creatures of the deep have a wide appeal. Those who are very spirituality prefer angel tattoos, as they are important in many religions like Christianity, Jewish and Islamic faiths. These angels are considered to be the messengers of god who are protective to us, like guardian angels looking over us.

There are some tattoos that have specific meanings and are meant to cater to specific people while there are generalized tattoos. In Japan, households are represented by the chrysanthemum to depict determination and steadfastness while the peony is used to depict wealth and good fortune.

Angelina Jolie Brief Biography
Born June 4, 1975, as Angelina Jolie Voight to parents Marcheline Bertrand and Jon Voight, this Academy Award-winning actress (Best Supporting Actress, 1999, Girl, Interrupted) has also won three Golden Globes and two Screen Actors Guild (SAG) awards. Before getting into acting, Angelina made her living as a fashion model.

Angelina Jolie is a well-known humanitarian and philanthropist, supporting several causes across the globe, including working with refugees through UNHCR (Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees).
Tattooed actress Angelina Jolie and her husband Pitt have two adopted children, Maddox and Zahara, and a biological child, Shiloh.

Jolie achieved international fame for her portrait of videogame heroine Lara Croft in 2001 and since then established herself as one of the best known and highest paid actresses in Hollywood. As Lara Croft in Tomb Raider or the female assassin half of Mr. and Mrs. Smith you won’t see a single tattoo. Her tattoos are covered with makeup for her movie roles. Multiple sources report that during the Tomb Raider shoot, the makeup applied wasn’t doing a good enough job of covering the large “Billy Bob” and black dragon on her left upper arm and a digital artist was hired to go frame by frame through the film and make sure no trace of skin art could be seen.Angelina Jolie’s tattoos are perhaps just as well known as her trademark pouty lips and her performances on the silver screen. Angelina Jolie is the “world’s most beautiful woman,” according to the “100 Most Beautiful” issue of People magazine in 2006, and a large part of that probably has to do with her tattoos.

Angelina Jolie has had several tattoos done over the years, and she continues to frequently add new ones or change existing ones. They are not there purely for cosmetic purposes either, as it is said that each tattoo has a special meaning behind it. This list is by no means exhaustive, but it does give you a bit of insight into the personality, thinking, and preferences of the popular actress. Angelina Jolie is one of the most photographed women in the world – and now one of the most tattooed.

Angelina Jolie Tattoos

Angelina Jolie and her famous tattoos.
• Billy Bob”, the name of her former husband Billy Bob Thornton, on her left arm.
• Coordinates representing the locations where she adopted Maddox and Zahara , on her left arm
• A dragon tattoo on her left arm can still be seen faintly on her left arm, though she has been getting it lasered for months.
• A dragon she got in Amsterdam
• A large black cross tattoo on her left hip.
• The Latin quote “ Quod me nutrit me destruit”.
• Gothic letter tattoo between her shoulder blades says “Know Your Rights”.
• Buddhist Pali incantation written in Khmer script. Position: Left shoulder.
• The letter H on her left wrist.
• Arabic phrase “Strength of will”.
• The 12-inch long Bengal tiger is situated on her lower back.
• The dragon under the tiger.
• The window on her lower back.
• Two pointy black tribals on the lower parts of her back.
• The Roman numeral 13 (XIII) on her left forearm.
• A Tennessee Williams quote – “A prayer for the wild at heart, kept in cages” – on her left forearm.
• On her left shoulder, she has had her tattoo with the Chinese character for death.

Tribal tattoos are among the most popular designs. They have been around for hundreds and hundreds of years and they are always evolving and becoming more and more complex with their designs and styles. Tribal tattoos can either be the traditional black style that cover the arms and the legs or the more colorful styles that can cover every area of the body. The colorful, more modern look is becoming more and more popular when compared to other styles.

The “old school” styles of tattoos are also popular. Anchors and things like that are making a great comeback these days and not just with sailors. These styles were very common and very popular back in the 60s. They are rapidly gaining their popularity back, as females and males are getting anchors and swallow designs tattooed on them more and more.

Lower back tattoos are the most common for women. The lower back is one of the most sexual and sensual areas on a women, making the ideal spot for a tattoo. Tribal designs are the most popular, although flowers, dragons, and other symbols make great tattoos as well. The lower back offers plenty of natural curves as well, which can make for an innovative tattoo. Often times, women tend to include tribal that spreads, covering the base of their hips as well.

Dragon designs are another popular type style of tattoos. They were popular in the past, and are now starting to get their popularity back. There are a lot of different dragons to choose from, including the mythical dragon and ancient Chinese dragon. Dragons are great on the chest for males and the back for females. Dragon tattoos can be virtually any size, although most males tend to have them cover one side of their chest or the upper region of their arms.

Celtic tattoos are also popular as well. They are mostly seen with those who have a Celtic heritage, although some with no Celtic heritage have them as well. They offer a variety of symbols and designs, providing universal meanings for everyone. Often times they are mixed with tribal tattoos to create a more innovative tattoo.

There are several other types of tattoos out there, although the above are the most common. Tattoos can be very creative and innovative; it all depends on what you want. If you’re looking to stand out and be truly creative – you can always have a professional tattoo artist design one for you.

Make sure and research your tattoo beforehand. Too many people have a general idea of what they want but never research the specific piece of art until they walk into their local tattoo parlor. By the time your in the shop you feel committed to settle for the art that the local artist has to offer. By researching the exact tattoo you want beforehand you walk in with exactly the artwork you will be happy with for years to come.

Tattoo Flash Art

Check out other people’s tattoo that are similar to the one you want. Have you ever got a new tat and been so happy with it only to see one later you liked better. Maybe it’s just a few subtle differences or color combinations. Or maybe it’s a whole twist on your idea you hadn’t thought of. Being able to research and compare your ideas to other people’s will help you make sure you get the art you really want. Checking out variations on your idea can let you come up with new tattoo that you actually like better in the end.

Last but certainly not least make sure and check out other work you local artist has done. When you go into a shop the artist is only going to display their best work. Well what if that only equals a small percentage of their overall work? What if the majority of their work is sub standard? Also some artists are great at certain types of tattoos like lettering but not so strong when it comes to portraits or people.

First pick a tattoo that you not only like now but one that you will like in the future. Try to pick something from your life that you have always enjoyed. If you have kids these are a great source of tattoo ideas since you will always cherish your children. You don’t have to just get names think of a design or picture that will always remind you of that special family member or someone.

Second make sure and speak to the tattoo artist before you go in for your tat. Ask the artist questions and review their books. Quality tattoo artists keep books not only of art but pictures of work they have done. This way you can see the final tattoo on someone’s skin and better picture how it will look on yours.

Third find a tattoo that is individual for you. You don’t want to pick a design off the wall and find that everyone you meet has the same tattoo. Combine tattoos to make one design, or cut and paste different aspects of a couple to form one unique tattoo. Also make sure the tattoo artist understands that your design is for you and not to be reproduced.

Finally make sure and take your time picking a tattoo. A life long piece of artwork is not something to rush into. Take your time and find the perfect tattoo that you will be happy with. That’s what’s nice about the internet being able to find huge online databases of tattoo designs and ideas that you can sit at home and view at your own pace without feeling rushed.

Not every tattoo artist is comfortable with doing lettering. Just like people study calligraphy so does a tattoo artist need to be well versed in the art of tattoo lettering. Work with your local artist and ask them questions. Look at other pieces they have done and judge for yourself.

When choosing the font for your tattoo lettering make sure its appropriate for the artwork its going with. If it’s a memorial piece then something then a formal font will look best. If it’s a cartoon or playful piece then formal would look out of place, go with a colorful and playful font.

You can look in your computers word processor for types of font. Experiment and see what looks best. But remember these fonts were designed for typing and there are thousands more out there for tattoos.

If you getting a foreign language tattoo be sure and research the real translation. So many tattoos today done in Chinese and other languages are so misrepresented in what they are supposed to mean. Nothing like wanting ‘Peace’ in Chinese and really getting a tattoo that says ‘Unwashed’.

And remember that tattoo letters are not just for black and white. Color can add an all new dimension to you tattoo lettering and really set itself apart from the rest of the artwork.

Tattoo Lettering

The dragon is a mythical creature that is visible in many ancient manuscripts and paintings in a great many countries. It is almost always viewed as a fierce and magical creature that seems to be always attacking villages and protecting great hoards of treasure. Dragon images are very popular with people wanting to have a unique sort of design because many artists have their own special design when it comes to dragon tattoos. This means that every tattoo artist will have a different take on what a dragon tattoo should look like which also means that everyone can have their own unique design.

There are many styles of dragon tattoos though including some that are made more for younger people or females. These can include cartoon depictions of dragons or cute little images of smiling or kissing dragons. These would probably not be so good for any man who might like to have a dragon image tattooed on his body. Men who want a dragon tattoo would probably more likely prefer a fierce and terrifying depiction of a dragon – most likely a fire-breathing variety.

Some groups have adopted the dragon as a symbol of their unity and power. These groups can include street gangs or groups of grandmothers who value the image of the dragon as a sign of wisdom and power. The exact same image of a dragon may mean different things to many different people. This is why the image has endured for so many centuries.

Because everyone has a different idea of what a dragon is supposed to look like, there are a great many different styles and types of dragons. If the dragon tattoo you have created in a tattoo shop doesn’t look like what someone else thinks a dragon should look like that doesn’t mean that it isn’t a dragon design to you. Whatever you think is a dragon design is a dragon design – to you.

One reason the dragon tattoo is so popular is because it’s long winding shape can go on practically any part of the body. You can cover your whole back with this tattoo or have it snaking and winding around your arm.

There are many different types of dragons that can be used. The Japanese have always used dragons in their art and literature so there are many designs to choose from. The most popular is the full back dragon tattoo where you have plenty of room to make it truly spectacular. The Asian dragons are usually viewed as powerful and empowered with wisdom, making these dragons very popular.

Dragon Art Tattoos

The Celtic design tattoos are also very popular with their intricate knots. The Celtic heart is often chosen for it’s beauty and design.

On a man the dragon tattoos represent power, strength, and warrior skills. It can define his personality. Although you can also have a mystical, magical dragon design that makes the man more approachable.

On a woman the dragon tattoo usually represents strength and a hotly passionate nature, ready to protect her family against all dangers. Some women would be intimated by wearing a dragon tattoo and would worry about what people would think. The dragon tattoo on a woman shows she is not afraid of criticism and can stand up for herself and for those in her care.

If you want to create an aura of strength and fantasy, get a dragon art tattoo. Some people fear them and are nervous of the superstitions surrounding them, but they have to respect them.

First, it’s important to look at the beast behind the design. Amazingly, dragons are embedded in cultures throughout the world. In studying ancient civilizations, one comes across the dragon in one form or another in European, Oriental, and Iranian tradition. The dragon certainly has some grounding in real life. Look no further than monitor lizards or other scaly serpents and you’ll find real world examples. How the dragon became so ubiquitous in cultures across the globe may be a mystery, but it is certainly a testament to how powerful and appealing these mythical creatures are. No matter who you are or where your ancestors came from, a dragon can fit into the way you define yourself.

Dragons are generally depicted as reptilian creatures. While their appearance varies across cultures, dragons usually share the same characteristics regardless of what culture you’re studying. In virtually every case, this mythical beast is capable of rapid flight, as well as the ability to spit fire, sending enemies reeling. The combination of these two factors make the dragon one of the most fearful creatures roaming the earth, so watch out!

Your dragon tattoo represents something different to everyone who views it. Apart from just being an intricate, beautiful design, the tattoo holds symbolic value as a way to express the things that are important to you. On a man, the dragon might represent power, or wisdom. Many people see dragons on women as a sign of cunning and deviousness.

It’s important to remember that dragons can both help and hurt human beings. Mythical dragons often served as the wizard’s steed, providing transport into and out of battle. At the same time, evil dragons were dangerous creatures capable of destruction without so much as a second’s notice. Their hot fire could instantly melt the bravest of warriors. Perhaps that’s part of the dragon’s appeal; contemplating this beast makes people run the gamut of emotions. Without more information, there’s no way of knowing whether the dragon you see is helpful or harmful. In a sense, you’re almost forced to inquire further details. That’s one of the benefits of an interesting, provocative dragon tattoo: it’s an instant conversation starter. After all, isn’t that one of the reasons people get tattoos in the first place?

If you’ve been thinking about getting another tattoo (or your first!), you should strongly consider a dragon as your chosen style. These powerful creatures evoke the powerful emotions from tattoo artists, and you’re sure to come out of the studio with a design that will astonish everyone lucky enough to see it.

Dragons have history and tradition in many societies, especially in those of Medieval Europe and those of ancient Oriental origins. In fact, both of these cultures have contributed much of the lore corresponding to the Eastern and Western dragon.

On one hand, the Eastern dragon is understood to represent the characteristics of courage, honor, and strength. Seen as divine protectors, Eastern dragons are also esteemed as bearers of essential life water and life sustainers. On the other hand, Western dragons are viewed as the evil counterpart of the Eastern dragon. Known for their savagery and brutality, the Western dragon is often associated with evil, and even the Devil.

Dragon Tattoo Designs

The freedom of using dragon art for tattoo designs is beneficial for both the one who is getting a tattoo and the one who is inking the design. The sheer variety this beast offers is the primary reason its popularity has grown in recent years.

Dragons are a favorite design among tattoo artists because of the variety afforded to them. Design, detail, and coloration are all aesthetic liberties that the artist can take with dragon tattoos, and these tattoos also look great on the skin, wrapping around various parts of the body.

Dragon tattoos can be done as armbands, on the lower back, ankles, shoulders, chest, or just about anywhere else. Among the most requested dragon designs are tribal dragons, Japanese dragons, fire-breathing dragons, Jade dragons, Red dragons, and mythological dragons. Often these intricately created pieces of art become masterpieces of color and complexity.

Shrewd attention should be given by both the wearer and the tattooer to what type of dragon is being portrayed. Because of the literal and figurative differences between the Eastern and Western dragons, minute differences in detail of color, appearance, and motif can make huge differences in translation of meaning or portrayal of intention.

Among all the creatures and beasts tied to myth and fantastical belief, dragon tattoo designs are by far the greatest in demand. Winged or unwinged, Eastern or Western, feared or revered, dragon images faithfully adorn bodies all over the world.