can you get a portrait tattoo without an outline?

Portraits are usually done with little to no outline. Thick outlines would make it look like a cartoon. It's the proper amount of shading and highlights that make the tattoo look more 3d and realistic. Portraits usually turn out better the bigger they are. This allows shading to make up the outline rather than having a bold line. It also allows room for details and aging.

All artists are NOT created equal when it comes to tattooing portraits (or tattooing anything, for that matter). Seriously scan through portfolios to see what's possible if you haven't already. If no one cuts the mustard where you are, travel. You've got one shot at decorating your body the right way. May as well make it worth it. I've included a small list of my favorite artists who are well known for their excellent portrait work.

http://www.tomrenshaw.com/

http://www.bobtyrell.com/

http://www.shaneoneilltattoos.com/

http://www.mdtattoos.com/

http://www.ignitiontattoo.com/portfolionikko.htm

http://joshuacarlton.com/

There are more amazing artists out there if you know what to look for. Otherwise you might wind up with something like this:

http://funvampires.com/2007/09/14/awful-tattoos-ba...

or worse...

Good Luck! :D

yes you can its just get it done customary and ask for no outline

yep

and I really prefer it that way most of the time

yepppy