You might balk at the idea of chasing trends or spending hours editing videos for social media. But it doesn't have to be so hard. It's all about showing your work, your process, and who you are so the right people can find you and book. After all, clients aren't walking into shops blind. They do their research on social media.
So, like it or not, posting consistently matters.
Here’s how to build a no-BS strategy that fits your routine. Plus, you'll get 50 simple post ideas to keep the content flowing without interrupting your day.
Why Organic Social Media Still Works
“Organic” just means unpaid. Unpaid = the stuff that shows up in people’s feeds naturally.
For tattoo artists, organic content is your portfolio, resume, and reputation all in one feed.
Posting regularly builds trust. It reminds people you’re around, shows the kind of work you want to be doing, and filters out the stuff you’re not into. For example, if you're mostly into black & gray realism, put that front and center. Clients who want that will come to you, and those who don’t will keep scrolling and not waste your time.
In other words, post the kind of tattoos you want to do. Your feed becomes a magnet for the right clients.
Social Media Marketing Tools for Tattooing
Posting doesn’t have to be a second job. Here's how to keep it sustainable.
1. Batch Content While You Work
You're already creating art. Capture it while it's happening. Keep a tripod or quick phone setup nearby. Snap pics before and after each session. Record a time-lapse. Show the stencil going on. This stuff becomes ready-to-go content, no extra effort. If you want tips on taking awesome shots of your work, check out our blog on tattoo photography here.Opens a new window
2. Use Scheduling Tools
Set aside an hour a week. During that "admin time," use tools like Later or Buffer to schedule content in advance. Load everything up and let it post automatically. Done.
3. Keep Editing Simple
Editing shouldn’t slow you down. Use apps like InShot or Canva for quick crops and captions. Templates help keep your feed consistent without reinventing the wheel every time.
4. Repurpose Across Platforms
Don't burn yourself out trying to make new content for every app. One solid post — one caption, one clip — can work across Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Keep it simple. Keep it moving.
How to Market Yourself as a Tattoo Artist
Now for the good part. Here's a list of 50 easy post ideas you can rotate through. It's all stuff that fits right into your work day.
Bear in mind: not all content is created equal. Some of these posts work best as videos— like time-lapses or studio tours—while others make killer stills or carousel posts. Use what suits your platform and your workflow. Most importantly, keep it real and keep it consistent. Now let’s get into it.
Tattoo Showcase Posts
- Finished tattoo of the day
- Healed piece from a past client
- Before/after carousel of a cover-up
- Favorite tattoo of the month
- "Guess the healed piece" game — show the stencil or fresh tattoo first
- Detail shot: clean lines, crisp shading, solid color
Process & Technique Posts
- Time-lapse from stencil to finish
- Your stencil method
- Tool/machine setup for the day
- In-progress shot of a big piece
- Quick pro tips (e.g. matching voltage to hand speed)
Flash & Booking Posts
- Flash sheet of available designs
- Sneak peek of a new flash drop
- “Last-minute openings this week” post
- How to book with you (step-by-step)
- Poll: “What should I draw next?” (great for flash engagement)
- Booking policy breakdown (reschedules, deposits, etc.)
Behind-the-Scenes Posts
- Clean studio setup before a client
- Tour of your workstation
- Hygiene routine (barriers, wraps, etc.)
- What you listen to while tattooing
- Mid-session break or quick personal moment
Client Experience Posts
- Client testimonial screenshot
- Their reaction to the finished tattoo
- Shout-out to someone who traveled or returned
- Backstory on a client’s tattoo (with their okay)
- Client selfie showing off the healed piece
Education & Tips Posts
- Your aftercare guide
- Tattoo healing: do’s and don’ts
- How to prep for a session
- Common tattoo myths (and the truth)
- Best placements for certain styles/sizes
Artist Life Posts
- How you got into tattooing
- Old work vs new (glow-up post)
- Sketchbook or iPad time-lapse
- Your favorite part of tattooing
- “My most meaningful tattoo to date” post with a story behind it
- What influences your style
Style-Focused Content Posts
- What makes your style unique
- Post tattoos in the styles you want more of
- A full breakdown of a custom design
- Style inspirations (art, culture, etc.)
- “If you like this… you’ll love this”
Personal Engagement Posts
- Tattoo memes that match your vibe
- Go-to snacks between sessions
- “Get to know your artist” Q&A
- Favorite studio story of the week
- “Which flash should I finish next?”
Ask Me Anything Posts (story format)
- “Would you get this?” post
- Celebrate a follower or work milestone
- Thank-you post to your clients
CHALLENGE TIME (if you're up for it): Try posting one each day for the next 50 days and build a posting habit that sticks.
How to Market a Tattoo Shop
If you’re posting for a shop, the strategy’s similar—just broaden it. Highlight each artist, show off the space, and build hype for events or walk-in days.
Bonus: spotlight your community collabs, fundraisers, or shop milestones. This helps build a name for your business that people will want to be a part of.
Building Connections with Tattoo Conventions
Tattoo conventions still matter. Big time. Even if you’re not working a booth, just attending is networking gold.
Post stories or recaps when you go. Show off the gear you picked up, the artists you met, and any flash you grabbed. If you’re working a booth, let your followers know in advance. It builds community, and keeps your name circulating outside your local scene.
Get Posting
Social media marketing for tattoo studios builds visibility and trust. Those are cornerstones for a strong client base. Stay consistent. Post with purpose. Let your work speak for itself.
You don’t need to be an influencer. You just need to show up, so the right people can find you.
Learn More About All Things Tattoo
This blog was written in collaboration with Tattoo 101, the world's largest online tattoo school. Check out this page for more educational content from Tattoo 101.Opens a new window
