A portrait built from your reference
A loved one, a pet, an athlete or a musician: the starting point is a photograph and what you want to preserve in it. Nima Jolan creates realistic portraits in black and grey or colour at his private Montreal studio.
The free consultation is a chance to review the reference, choose a crop and check that the size gives the features enough room. Every piece is custom designed, and tattoo appointments take place as full-day sessions.
Portrait tattoo portfolio
Tributes to loved ones and portraits of familiar faces, tattooed by Nima. Compare placements and approaches in black and grey or colour.
A portrait in memory of someone
A portrait can be a way to keep a mother, a father or someone who has passed away close to you. The available photograph may be old, small or damaged. Bring it as it is, along with other images if you have them, so we can assess the details it contains.
The expression matters as much as image sharpness. The project should begin with a face you recognize and a photograph that means something to you.
Preparing your photo, size and placement
Choose your reference
A clear, unfiltered photo should show the eyes, mouth and shape of the face. An original file is preferable to a compressed screenshot. We can compare several references during the consultation.
Leave room for the features
A very small face leaves less room for detail. Nima adapts the crop to the placement, whether it is a forearm, upper arm, calf or larger composition. We also consider how the portrait reads as your body moves.
Decide on the treatment
Explore black and grey tattooing and photorealism to compare approaches. If the portrait will become part of a larger piece, bring the full idea to the consultation. Our full sleeve guide is available in French.
From consultation to tattoo
- Share your idea. Include reference photos, your preferred placement and an approximate size with your consultation request.
- Define the project with Nima. Choose the reference, crop and treatment, then discuss the estimate and full-day sessions the project may need.
- Refine the composition in person. The design and placement are adapted together before tattooing starts. Breaks follow your comfort throughout the day.
The tattoo pricing guide explains what shapes an estimate. No fixed price is offered before the project has been reviewed. Once your appointment is planned, read how to prepare for a full-day session.
Questions about your project
Which photo should I choose for a portrait tattoo?
Bring the sharpest original file you have, with a large enough face and lighting that shows the features clearly. Several photos help us compare expressions. Avoid screenshots and filters that change the face.
Can an old photo work for a memorial portrait?
Sometimes. It depends on the remaining detail, contrast and size of the face in the photo. Bring the best version available, along with other references if you have them. The consultation is where we assess what is possible before committing.
How do I choose the size and placement?
There is no single minimum size for every portrait: facial features need space. We consider the crop, detail and curve of your arm or leg together. A very small design may require removing details that are essential to the likeness.
Should I choose black and grey or colour?
Both are possible. Black and grey emphasizes volume and contrast; colour can capture skin tones and the atmosphere of the reference. The choice depends on the photo, the result you want and any tattoos surrounding the piece.
How much does a portrait cost, and how many sessions will it take?
The price and number of full-day sessions depend on size, placement, detail and any surrounding composition. Nima works in full-day sessions. A free consultation provides a project-specific estimate; a photo alone cannot guarantee a price or timeline.
Can a portrait become part of a full sleeve?
Yes, when the face has enough space and fits the overall composition. We plan the portrait, supporting elements and open areas together so the sleeve stays readable. Bring photos of any existing tattoos on the arm as well.
Tell me about the portrait you have in mind
Bring your photographs and a placement idea. The consultation is free, with no obligation.
Discuss my portrait2065 Parthenais, studio #293, Montreal. By appointment only.