What kind of things are you interested in?

How do you think those things will be best portrayed as a tattoo or tattoos?

Does your potential future field of work generally welcome or frown upon visible tattoos?

Are you planning on gaining or losing much weight in the future?

Do you have an idea of what you want your tattoo to look like? Many reputable artists don't like when you come in and don't know, it shows that you're really too unsure about a tattoo to put one on you. They want you to be happy with the product.

Shop around and ask to see portfolios of artists. Pick one with a style you like. Make sure you choose an artist that does high quality portraits if you want a portrait (I know you don't, just an example.)

If you have any aversion to needles or pain, make sure you discuss this with your artist.

Make sure you've had something to eat before you go in and get your work done.

Don't bring all your friends to watch unless the artist or owner specifically says it's fine. I'm sure you'd much rather have the artist be able to concentrate and provide a high quality product than have all your friends crowd around and watch how it's done. They'll see the end result either way.

Don't be a dick.

Tip your artist well. They're doing permanent work on your body.

Start small. You can always add something later. It also gives you an idea of how things are going to feel and how to take care of a smaller area before you get something large done. If you like the work, you're also building a relationship with the artist. The more they know about you and the more friendly you are with one another, the better.

Don't get the name of a significant other. You never know when something might happen and you break up, but you're still stuck with their name on your body.

Be sure of what you want.

Be really sure of what you want.

Good luck!