There are a ton of advantages to holding virtual tattoo consultations, not least of which are the scheduling flexibility it affords artists and the geographic constraints it removes for clients. Much thought goes into even the simplest tattoo designs, making the initial consultation between artist and client especially important. Our live stream capability gives artists an added convenience by enabling them to hold virtual tattoo consultations from [the same app they manage every other aspect of their business from. Of course, even with the best tool for the job at your disposal, virtual tattoo consultations do require unique planning and execution, which we've covered for you below.
1. Why Hold Tattoo Consultations Virtually?
We aren’t suggesting that you host virtual tattoo consultations exclusively, as there are obvious benefits to holding them in person. But, like we said, there are some very practical benefits to offering the option, for both you and your clients.
These include:
Global Reach
Virtual consultations enable you to connect with clients — literally—from anywhere in the world, expanding your reach beyond your community and tapping into a larger market. If your reputation spans multiple cities, counties, states or even countries, why not do all you can to cash in on that? This is especially helpful for artists whose clientele come from all over the world to get a piece done by one of the greats.
Convenience for Remote Clients
Clients who live in remote or rural areas may have limited access to skilled and reputable tattoo artists. Virtual consultations allow them to work with talented artists like you without having to travel long distances. They can save their mini pilgrimage for the day of the tattoo.
Reduced Time & Cost
Virtual tattoo consultations save both you and your client time and money associated with travel expenses. This makes tattoo consultations more accessible to a wider range of clients.
Flexibility in Scheduling
Virtual tattoo consultations offer more flexibility in scheduling, as they eliminate the need to coordinate travel logistics. Clients can easily book appointments at their convenience, even outside of regular business hours.
Enhanced Comfort
Some clients may prefer having their tattoo artists right in front of them in a tattoo studio environment, but just as many others may feel more comfortable discussing their tattoo ideas and preferences in the privacy of their own home. Virtual consultations offer a more relaxed setting for these clients to express themselves accurately.
2. Choosing the Right Virtual Platform
There are several factors to consider when choosing a video conferencing or live streaming platform for virtual tattoo consultations. To ensure a smooth, safe and effective communication experience with your clients, keep the following in mind:
Reliability & Stability
Choose a platform known for its reliability and stability, with minimal downtime and technical issues. Look for platforms that offer high-quality audio and video streaming capabilities to facilitate clear communication.
User Experience
Choose a platform that is intuitive and easy to use for both you and your clients. Consider one with tools for screen sharing, live chat, and real-time annotations to facilitate communication and feedback.
Compatibility
Ensure the video conferencing platform is compatible with various devices and operating systems, including desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Our live stream feature is accessible through web browsers and the Vagaro Pro app, available for both iOS and Android devices. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, allowing clients to join easily.
Integration with Other Tools
Choose a platform that seamlessly integrates scheduling software, billing, customer relationship management and other tools to streamline everything for you. Our live stream feature is fully automated and integrated with our booking & payment processing system for a much more efficient experience.
Video Quality
High-definition (HD) video streaming capabilities are essential for providing clear and detailed visuals during virtual tattoo consultations. Look for platforms that support HD or even 4K resolution streaming for the most clarity.
Security & Privacy
Prioritize a platform that offers solid security features, such as end-to-end encryption, password protection and access controls, to safeguard sensitive client information and ensure privacy during the consultation.
Recording & Playback Features
Some platforms offer the ability to record virtual consultations for future reference or playback. This can be useful for documenting design discussions and agreements made during the consultation.
Cost
Evaluate the cost of using the platform, considering any subscription fees, usage limits, or additional features offered. Choose a platform that offers the most value for your budget and meets your specific needs. The live stream feature we offer is a premium feature that only costs an additional $10 per month and is totally integrated into the rest of the platform for you.
3. Virtual Tattoo Consultation Checklist
So, your virtual tattoo consultation is on the books. Now, here’s a checklist to help you out with the time leading up to the appointment and what to cover with your client.
Prioritize Communication
Clearly communicate with your client before the consultation to ensure they have the necessary information and instructions for the virtual meeting. Provide guidelines on how to connect to the video call and troubleshoot common technical issues. Remind them, also, to choose a quiet, well-lit space for the meeting.
Send Your Tattoo Consultation Form
You must provide your client with any necessary forms, questionnaires, or instructions well before the consultation. This could include health history forms or design preference questionnaires. We have custom forms for your tattoo business like intake sheets and health questionnaires that are a breeze to create. The dual signature form feature also covers you legally, in the event of any pushback later on.
[Check it Out!: We’ve got you covered with a virtual tattoo consultation form sample]
Run a Test Call
Do a test run of your video conferencing platform (and any other digital tools you plan to use) before the consultation. Check your internet connection, audio & video quality to find and address any potential technical issues.
Send a Reminder
Clients should get a reminder closer to the time of consultation, along with their meeting link. A cool part of our live stream feature is each booking triggers an automated email, push & text notification with a unique meeting link. The same link is also displayed on the appointment page on Vagaro.com and on our client app. To join the live stream, clients simply click on that link—can’t get easier than that.
Use Visuals
Utilize digital drawing software, such as Procreate or Clip Studio Paint to create sketches and illustrations of tattoo designs in real time during the consultation (there are many of these out there, some of which are free1). Screen sharing features, like Vagaro Live Stream's, allow you to showcase digital sketches, reference images, design mock-ups and other visual aids directly to clients.
Discuss Design Options
You know it better than anyone—people want things that aren’t always smart or feasible. Based on the client's preferences, body placement, and skin tone, provide alternative guidance on design elements, size, color, and placement. Keep in mind that you can’t physically examine their skin, which may affect your ability to assess factors like skin tone, texture, and elasticity. Yet another reason why choosing a live stream platform that provides clean visuals is key.
Explain the Tattoo Process
Might be their first time, right? Educate your client about the tattooing process, including pre-care and aftercare instructions. And then do your thing to address any concerns they may have regarding pain, healing, or maintenance.
Set Realistic Expectations
Even if they may already know, reiterate the info regarding the estimated time the piece will take and the cost. It’s always good to be transparent to manage their expectations.
Provide Aftercare Instructions
Share detailed aftercare instructions with the client, including tips for proper healing and maintenance of the tattoo.
Follow Up & Ask for Feedback
Just because the consultation has ended doesn’t mean you’re done. Send a follow-up email summarizing the consultation details, including the agreed-upon design, size, placement, and any next steps or appointments. Encourage clients to provide feedback on their virtual consultation experience and use their input to continuously improve and refine your approach to virtual consultations.
Tip
You can use our Forms feature to send out surveys after your live stream to get customer feedback too.
Technology has enabled tattoo artists like yourself to run effective virtual consultations that accommodate busy schedules and ignore geographic boundaries. That technology should be feature-rich, secure, easy to use and help you engage with clients. With a tool like Vagaro Live Stream and the simple strategies above, you can run smooth virtual tattoo consultations, anytime, anywhere. With that challenge solved, you’ll have more time to dedicate to your craft and doing what you love. Start your FREE 30-day trial to experience the booking & tattoo business management app that has your back at every step.
References:
https://tattooing101.com/learn/tips-advice/best-tattoo-design-apps-for-artists/
