Tattoo Image

1. Overview of Business and Website Purpose

 

Welcome to Tattoo Image, a premier tattoo and body piercing studio in Hesperia, California. Operating since 1995, our studio is known for a unique vibe filled with art and oddities, and for skilled artists and piercers dedicated to quality work  . Whether you’re looking to get your dream tattoo or a new piercing, we aim to provide a safe and exceptional experience. Our website (tattooimagehd.com) serves to inform clients about our services, showcase our artists’ work, and facilitate appointment requests. These Terms of Service (“Terms”) outline the rules and policies for using our website and receiving services at our studio. By visiting our site or obtaining a tattoo/piercing from us, you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree, please refrain from using the site or services. We encourage you to read this document carefully and reach out with any questions.

 

2. Eligibility to Use Services

 

Tattoo Image provides body art services that are age-restricted and regulated by law. To ensure compliance and safety, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

    •    Minimum Age for Tattoos: You must be at least 18 years of age to receive a tattoo at Tattoo Image – no exceptions. California state law explicitly prohibits tattooing individuals under 18, regardless of parental consent. We will verify your age with a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) before any tattoo procedure. If you cannot provide proof of being 18 or older, we will not proceed with the tattoo.

    •    Minors and Piercings: For body piercings, California law allows some leeway with parental involvement. At Tattoo Image, clients under 18 may get certain piercings (e.g., earlobe, nostril) only if a parent or legal guardian is present to consent and accompany the minor. The guardian must also provide valid ID and, ideally, proof of guardianship (last names matching on IDs or a birth certificate, etc.). We do not pierce minors under 18 without a guardian present – no written consents or phone permissions are accepted; the adult must be in the studio. Additionally, some services are off-limits to minors regardless: we will not tattoo anyone under 18, and we will not perform certain types of piercings on minors (for example, no nipple or genital piercings on minors, in line with California regulations ). We also generally do not provide piercing services to very young children; our policy is limited appointments for kids under 10 and older than 3 (for earlobe piercings), typically handled on a case-by-case basis with an appointment and guardian, as young children require special handling. Please call ahead for inquiries about child piercings.

    •    Personal Condition: You should be in a sober, healthy state when you come in for your tattoo or piercing. We will not tattoo or pierce anyone who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you arrive intoxicated, we will refuse service (and any deposit will be forfeited as if a no-show). It’s both unsafe and against health regulations to perform procedures on someone impaired. Similarly, if you are experiencing a serious illness or skin condition at the site of the tattoo/piercing (e.g., a rash, sunburn, active acne), we may postpone the service.

    •    Pregnancy/Nursing: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please inform us. For tattoos, while not illegal to tattoo a pregnant woman, it’s generally advised against due to potential stress and risk of infection; many artists (including ours) may refuse or ask you to obtain medical clearance. For piercings, certain piercings could be done but again, risk of infection is a concern. Our policy is to generally avoid tattooing pregnant clients and to use caution with piercings for pregnant/nursing individuals. We’ll likely recommend you wait until after pregnancy/nursing for any non-essential body art.

    •    Medical Conditions: Disclose any medical conditions or disabilities that might affect the procedure (such as bleeding disorders, allergies to metals or latex, seizure disorders, or if you require any special accommodations). We do our best to accommodate clients, but we need to know in advance. For example, if you have a severe nickel allergy, that’s important for piercing jewelry selection; if you have hemophilia, a tattoo might pose extra risks. We may require a doctor’s note in some cases to proceed, or we may decline if we feel it’s unsafe. This is for your protection.

    •    Right to Refuse Service: Tattoo Image reserves the right to refuse service to anyone, particularly if these eligibility requirements are not met or if we believe the request is beyond our ability or violates our ethical guidelines. For example, we won’t fulfill requests for illegal activities (like tattooing someone underage or a request to tattoo hate symbols). We also maintain a safe environment for our staff and clients, so any harassment, inappropriate behavior, or violent conduct can result in refusal of service and being asked to leave the premises. Our studio is a professional establishment and we expect mutual respect.

 

By entering our studio for service, you confirm you meet the above criteria. We take these rules seriously to comply with the law and to ensure a safe, positive experience for all involved.

 

3. Booking Appointments and Walk-Ins

 

At Tattoo Image, we strive to be flexible in accommodating both appointments and walk-in clients. Here’s how our booking works:

    •    Walk-Ins: We proudly accept walk-in customers for tattoos when available, and for piercings almost always. If you drop by during business hours (Mon-Thurs 12pm–7pm, Fri-Sat 12pm–9pm), and we have an artist or piercer free, we’ll be happy to help you on the spot. If all artists are busy, we’ll give you an estimated wait time or the option to schedule for later. Note: Piercings at our studio are walk-in only, no appointment needed and are cash only transactions. So you can come any time during piercing hours and be served on a first-come, first-served basis. For tattoos, walk-ins are welcome but subject to artist availability; larger or more complex tattoos might still need to be scheduled for adequate time.

    •    Appointments for Tattoos: If you have a specific time, date, or artist in mind for your tattoo, we recommend making an appointment. You can request an appointment through our website’s form (by providing your contact info, tattoo idea, preferred artists, etc.), or by calling/texting the shop. When you request an appointment, we’ll connect you with an artist that fits your style and availability. Each artist manages their own calendar, but our front desk will facilitate the booking process.

    •    Deposits: For tattoo appointments, a deposit is typically required to hold your booking. The amount may vary depending on the estimated size or time for the tattoo (commonly $50-$100 for smaller pieces, more for large day-session tattoos). The exact deposit and payment method will be communicated during booking. All deposits are non-refundable but will be applied to the final cost of your tattoo . This policy ensures commitment from both sides – we block out the time for you and you show intent by leaving a deposit. No tattoo appointment is confirmed until the deposit is received.

    •    Consultations: For large or highly custom tattoo projects, we might schedule a preliminary consultation (in person or via phone/video) to discuss the design, placement, and details. This can be free or require a small deposit which may also go toward the tattoo. The consultation ensures we understand your vision and can allocate the right amount of time and provide a price estimate.

    •    Design Preparation: You are welcome to send us reference images or describe your idea when booking. Our artists may spend time before your appointment drawing or refining the concept. Significant design work may require an upfront design fee (particularly if you cancel last-minute after the artist has invested hours drawing). Typically, simple designs won’t have a separate fee, but extensive custom artwork might. This will be discussed with you. Note that all designs drawn by our artists remain their intellectual property (see IP section) – but rest assured, we won’t use your custom piece on someone else once it’s finalized for you.

    •    Independent Artists: Tattoo Image is home to several talented independent artists and piercers, each of whom operates their own business under our roof. This means that each artist sets their own pricing, schedule, and may have specific policies (for example, one artist might require a larger deposit for a full-day session, or might only do consultations on certain days). We will convey any such specifics when you book. By booking with a particular artist, you may also be entering into an agreement with that artist under their terms (in addition to these studio-wide terms). Generally, our studio policies cover most situations, but if an artist has a unique condition (like they don’t allow filming during the session, or they have a different reschedule window), we’ll let you know.

    •    Appointment Confirmation: After scheduling, you should receive a confirmation (via text, email, or in writing at the shop) of your appointment date and time, the artist’s name, and any deposit paid. As the appointment date approaches, some artists or our staff may reach out to reconfirm or discuss details. If you have any questions or want to check in, feel free to contact us.

    •    Before Your Appointment: Please arrive a few minutes early to fill out the necessary consent form and discuss the final details with your artist. Make sure to be well-rested, have eaten within a few hours, and stay hydrated. For tattoos, wearing appropriate clothing that gives access to the area (and that you don’t mind possibly getting ink on) is advisable. For piercings, ensure you’ve cleaned the area (e.g., ears) and avoid heavy perfume or lotions around the area that could contaminate.

    •    Late Policy: We understand things happen, but punctuality is appreciated. If you are running late, call the shop to let us know. Generally, if you are more than 30 minutes late without contacting us, we may consider it a no-show, your appointment may be given up, and your deposit forfeited . With notice, we can often hold the spot or reschedule later in the day, but this is at the discretion of the artist’s schedule. Chronic lateness could result in requiring larger deposits or refusal of future bookings.

    •    Group Appointments: If you and friends want to get tattoos or piercings together, please inform us so we can schedule adequate staff. We love hosting groups, but drop-in groups of many people at once can overwhelm our capacity. Booking in advance ensures we have enough artists on hand. Group bookings might each need individual deposits.

    •    Walk-in “Flash” Events: Occasionally, we host special events (like Friday the 13th flash tattoo events) that are first-come, first-served. Those events may have their own specific terms (e.g., set designs, set prices, cash only). Any such special terms will be advertised as part of the event details and would temporarily override portions of these Terms as applicable (for example, during a flash event, deposits might not apply because it’s all walk-in line-based; or a minimum age might be strictly 18 for all services even for piercings due to volume).

 

By booking an appointment with Tattoo Image, you agree to honor these scheduling and deposit policies. Our time and craftsmanship are our livelihood; these measures ensure fairness to our artists and allow us to service all clients effectively.

 

4. Cancellation and Refund Policies

 

We strive to be fair and understanding with cancellations while also respecting our artists’ time. The following outlines our policies if you need to cancel or reschedule, as well as our stance on refunds:

    •    Cancellation Notice Requirement: Please give us at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your tattoo appointment (48 hours or more is even better, especially for long sessions). For piercings, since they are usually walk-in, this mainly applies to any piercing appointment made for minors or special cases. Adequate notice allows the artist to adjust their schedule or potentially accommodate another client.

    •    Deposit Forfeit on Late Cancellation: If you cancel with less than 24 hours notice or fail to show up, your deposit is forfeited as a cancellation fee . Our artists set aside that time for you and may not be able to fill it last-minute, leading to lost income. For cancellations made with more than 24 hours notice, we can often transfer your deposit to a rescheduled appointment (one time). Repeated cancellations, even with notice, may result in needing a new deposit or a refusal to book further. We reserve the right to determine on a case-by-case basis if a late cancellation might be excused due to extraordinary circumstances (true emergencies, etc.), but generally deposits are non-refundable.

    •    No-Show Policy: Not showing up to your appointment (with no prior communication) is taken seriously. A “no-call, no-show” will automatically forfeit your deposit and you will likely be required to pay a new deposit if you want to book again . We also reserve the right to refuse future bookings after a no-show, especially if no explanation is given. It’s basic courtesy – if you don’t think you can make it, just let us know.

    •    Rescheduling: If you need to reschedule, we will do our best to find a new date that works. One reschedule attempt with transfer of deposit is allowed if notice is sufficient. If you reschedule multiple times, the artist may decide to treat it as a cancellation and require a new deposit to book further. Also note, if you reschedule to a later date, and our prices have changed in the interim or the scope of the tattoo changes, the cost may be adjusted to the current rates (though we try to honor original quotes within reason).

    •    Studio Cancellations: If we (Tattoo Image or the artist) have to cancel or move your appointment for some reason (illness, emergency, etc.), we will inform you as soon as possible and offer to reschedule. Your deposit in such cases would carry over and not be lost, or be refunded if we absolutely cannot reschedule. We apologize in advance if this happens – it’s rare and usually only for unavoidable situations. We might also try to place you with another artist if appropriate and you agree.

    •    Refunds on Services: All tattoo and piercing sales are final. We do not offer refunds on services that have been completed. Tattooing and piercing are forms of art and personal expression; once the work is done, the materials have been used and the time spent. Even if you have “buyer’s remorse” or if someone in your life doesn’t like the tattoo, we cannot undo it – no refunds will be given because the service was performed as agreed. We make every effort to ensure you are satisfied with the design and placement before we start (for tattoos, you will approve the stencil placement and design). It’s ultimately your responsibility to speak up before the tattoo is done if something is not to your liking. After that, changes would mean new work and new charges.

    •    Touch-ups and Satisfaction: We stand by the quality of our work. If a tattoo heals and has minor imperfections due to artist error (for instance, a small spot didn’t heal properly or a line is lighter than the rest), most of our artists will provide a free touch-up within a specified timeframe (commonly within 4-8 weeks of the original tattoo). This is at the artist’s discretion and typically covers small fixes, not large-scale changes or additions. If the issue was due to poor aftercare (e.g., you picked at it and color fell out, or you went swimming too soon), that may not qualify for a free touch-up. Piercings that may need adjustment (like jewelry change if initial one was too long/short after swelling) are handled similarly – we’ll assist, often for free or minimal cost, in the early stages. Note that a touch-up is not a refund, but a good-faith effort to ensure you get the intended result. If you simply decide you dislike the tattoo design or placement after the fact, a touch-up won’t fix that – that’s a separate issue (cover-ups or laser removal would be the remedy, at additional cost).

    •    Gift Certificates and Prepaids: If you have a gift certificate or prepaid session and you cancel late or no-show, the same rules apply – the value may be forfeited equivalent to the deposit or session slot. Gift certificates are otherwise non-refundable and not redeemable for cash. They usually have an expiry date; please use them before then.

    •    Changes of Mind: If you book a tattoo and then change your mind about getting it entirely, we understand, but your deposit is not refunded. Think carefully before booking. If you change your mind about the design itself, communicate with the artist before the appointment if possible – small changes can often be accommodated, but major redesigns might need a new appointment and possibly a new deposit if the artist already drew out the first concept. We aim to collaborate with you to get it right, but our time is valuable, so indecisiveness that causes significant redraws or delays might incur extra fees.

    •    Piercing Specific: Piercing service fees are not refunded if you later decide you don’t want the piercing or take it out. The only scenario for a possible refund/exchange in piercing is if a piece of jewelry you purchased from us is found to be defective upon insertion (we use high-quality jewelry, so that’s very rare). In such a case, we would replace the defective jewelry at no cost. But once a piercing is done, that service is done. If you have an issue like infection because you didn’t follow aftercare, we can offer advice or a cleaning solution, but no refund; the service was properly rendered.

 

To summarize, please book responsibly and be sure of your decision to get tattooed or pierced. We value open communication – if you have concerns, discuss them with us. We want you to have a great experience and love your new body art. These policies are not to punish anyone, but to ensure fairness and allow us to manage our time and business effectively. By booking with Tattoo Image, you agree to these cancellation and refund terms.

 

5. Payment Terms and Accepted Methods

 

Tattoo Image aims to make the payment process smooth and transparent. Here’s what you need to know about paying for your tattoo or piercing:

    •    Tattoo Pricing: Tattoo costs can be quoted in different ways depending on the piece. Some tattoos have a flat rate, others are charged hourly. We will discuss pricing before the tattoo begins. Factors include the size, complexity, placement on the body, and the artist’s own rate. We will give you an estimate; if during the tattoo the scope changes (you decide to add more detail or the piece takes longer than expected), the artist will inform you if the price needs to be adjusted. We do our best to stick to the quoted price. Our shop minimum for any tattoo is a set amount (for example, we won’t do any tattoo for less than, say, $80-$100, even if it’s tiny) – this covers the cost of setup and materials . This minimum will be communicated to you (it’s typically posted in the shop). If your tattoo is quite large or multi-session, the artist may charge per session or per hour; that will be agreed upon up front.

    •    Piercing Pricing: Piercings have standardized prices which include the service and basic jewelry. Our piercing price list is available at the shop (and sometimes posted online). Specialty jewelry or upgrades will cost extra. All piercing prices are clearly communicated before you agree. As noted, piercing services are cash only at our studio – please come prepared with cash for piercings (we have an ATM nearby if needed). This policy helps us keep piercing prices lower and speed up the transaction.

    •    Accepted Payment Methods (Tattoos and Merchandise): For tattoo services and any retail items (aftercare products, merch), we accept several payment methods:

    •    Cash – Always welcome (and often preferred by many artists).

    •    Credit/Debit Cards – We accept major cards like Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover. There might be a small card processing fee or minimum (for example, some artists enforce a $20 minimum for card charges or a +3% fee) – we’ll let you know. Card transactions usually will show on your statement as Tattoo Image or the artist’s name.

    •    Electronic Payments – In some cases, individual artists may accept payments via apps like PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App. This may vary; ask your artist what works for them. Our front desk can also often process something like Apple Pay if needed. However, since our artists are independent, you might be paying the artist directly via their preferred method. It’s wise to clarify at the start of the appointment how payment will be handled.

    •    No Personal Checks – We do not accept checks, as they present risk of non-payment.

    •    When to Pay: Typically, you pay after the service is completed, for tattoos. You’ll settle up with the artist once you’re happy with the work (or at least once it’s finished, since sometimes a big piece might be swollen at first but you’ll see the final result after healing). For multi-session tattoos, payment is due at the end of each session for that session’s work. Piercings are usually paid right after the piercing is done (or right before, depending on our front counter’s flow). The deposit you paid (if any) will be applied to your tattoo’s total. For example, if the tattoo cost is $200 and you paid a $50 deposit, you’d owe $150 at the end.

    •    Receipts: If you pay cash and want a receipt, we can provide one. Card payments will have an electronic or paper receipt. Keep your proof of payment. It’s rare, but if any confusion arises (like an accounting error), having your receipt helps resolve it quickly.

    •    Tips/Gratuity: Tipping your tattoo artist or piercer is customary (if you feel they did a good job), but not required. A typical tip might be 15-20%, similar to other service industries, but it’s entirely at your discretion. We appreciate every tip as a sign of satisfaction. If paying by card, often you can add a tip on the terminal. If paying cash, you can hand the tip directly to the artist.

    •    Merchandise: We also sell some merchandise (shirts, aftercare products, jewelry, etc.). Those can be purchased via cash or card. If you buy jewelry for a piercing, note that all sales are final on body jewelry for hygiene reasons once it leaves the shop. If we’re the ones doing the piercing and we open the jewelry for you, it’s considered used at that point. Make sure you like it before we use it.

    •    Taxes: Tattoo and piercing services in California are generally not subject to sales tax (they’re services). However, products (like merchandise or aftercare ointment) are subject to sales tax. Our prices for products will have tax added at checkout as required.

    •    Outstanding Balances: In the unlikely event you cannot pay your full balance immediately (e.g., a card was declined and you didn’t have a backup), we will keep your ID and have you sign an IOU or something similar while you go retrieve payment (like to an ATM). We do not extend credit beyond the day of service. If somehow you left without paying the full amount owed, we expect prompt return to settle. Unpaid services may result in action up to and including filing a police report for theft of services or civil claims. It’s ugly stuff we hope to never encounter. Please come prepared to pay.

    •    Pricing Disputes: We aim to avoid any miscommunication on price. Confirm the price or rate with your artist at the beginning. If there’s any confusion, speak up. If an artist quoted you one price and then asks for more, you have the right to question it. Sometimes a piece does take longer or more work, but it should be justified. Conversely, if you decide mid-session to add significantly more to the tattoo (like “actually can you also do this other piece next to it?”), expect the price to increase accordingly. Both parties should be clear on the plan. Our front desk can help mediate any confusion, but ultimately transactions are between you and the artist.

    •    Promotions: If you have a discount or coupon (from a promotion or event), present it at time of payment. Promotions may have conditions (like only applicable to certain artists or certain days). Only one discount can usually be applied at a time.

 

By paying for services at Tattoo Image, you agree to the pricing discussed and affirm that the work was done to your satisfaction (barring any issues mentioned at the time). We appreciate your business and aim for transparency so you feel the price paid is fair for the art and effort provided.

 

6. Health and Safety Acknowledgments

 

Tattoo Image is a professional body art studio that strictly adheres to health and safety regulations. We want you to not only love your new tattoo or piercing, but also have peace of mind that the procedure is done safely. When you come to Tattoo Image, you can expect a clean environment: we use hospital-grade disinfectants, sterile single-use needles, and follow universal precautions for bloodborne pathogens (our staff are trained and certified as required by California’s Health Code). However, it’s important for clients to understand their role and the inherent risks in body art procedures. Below are our health and safety policies and disclaimers:

    •    Sterile Procedures: Our artists and piercers will always open new, sterile needles in front of you. All other equipment that can be single-use (grips, ink caps, gloves, razors, etc.) is also disposable and one-time-use. Reusable tools (like tattoo tubes or piercing tools) are thoroughly cleaned and then sterilized in a medical-grade autoclave. We perform regular spore tests on our autoclave to ensure it’s functioning properly, as required by law. If you ever have questions about our sterilization, just ask – we’ll gladly explain or show you our setup.

    •    Consent and Medical Disclosure: Before your tattoo or piercing, you will fill out and sign a consent form/waiver (if you’re a minor getting a piercing with guardian consent, the guardian will sign as well). This form asks you to confirm you are of age (for tattoos, 18+; for piercings, either 18+ or a minor with guardian present as covered in Eligibility), not under the influence of drugs/alcohol, and asks you to disclose any relevant medical conditions. It also contains acknowledgments of the risks of the procedure. It is crucial that you answer honestly. We rely on that information to proceed safely. If you have a condition like hemophilia (bleeding disorder), epilepsy (risk of seizures), or an allergy (latex, nickel, certain inks), tell us. If you’re unsure whether to mention something, err on the side of disclosure. We maintain confidentiality with your information.

    •    Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to tattoo ink or piercing metals are possible, though not common. The most frequent issues are allergies to nickel (found in some stainless steel jewelry) or certain pigments (red pigments have been known to cause more allergic reactions). We use high-quality, reputable inks and implant-grade jewelry to minimize this risk. If you know you have metal sensitivities, we have titanium jewelry options for piercings. If you have had past allergic reactions to tattoo ink or hair dye (which could indicate a sensitivity to pigments), let your artist know. We can do a small patch test with ink if needed, but just like with cosmetic tattoos, a patch test is not always a guarantee that a reaction won’t occur later. You agree that Tattoo Image isn’t liable for rare allergic reactions that could not be foreseen. If you do suspect an allergic reaction (excessive itching, redness beyond normal, rash), seek medical advice; often such reactions can be managed with medication, but a doctor’s evaluation is best.

    •    Infection Prevention: We take every precaution on our end to prevent infection – using sterile technique, cleaning the skin, and providing aftercare instructions. However, once you leave the shop, preventing infection is in your hands. You must follow the aftercare guidelines we give you to keep your new tattoo or piercing clean while it heals. That usually means: do not touch with dirty hands, wash gently with mild soap, apply ointment as directed (for tattoos) or saline spray (for piercings), avoid submerging in water (no pools, hot tubs, or ocean), avoid picking or scratching, and keep the area protected from dirt. If you fail to do so, infections can occur. Common signs of infection include increased redness, warmth, swelling, pain, and possibly discharge of pus. If you suspect infection, see a healthcare provider; antibiotic ointment or oral antibiotics may be necessary. Tattoo Image is not a medical facility and we do not provide medical treatment, so we cannot treat an infection for you – we can only advise on keeping it clean and to see a doctor. We are not liable for infections, especially if aftercare instructions were not followed.

    •    During the Procedure: You have responsibilities during the actual procedure too. You need to sit still (to the best of your ability), or follow any instructions the artist gives (e.g., take a deep breath if they are about to pierce). Sudden movements can cause injury. If you feel unwell (lightheaded or a sudden pain beyond your tolerance), speak up immediately so we can take a break. It’s not uncommon to experience a bit of dizziness or an “adrenaline dump” after getting a tattoo or piercing – especially if it’s your first time. We have water, lollipops, and a couch if you need to lie down. There’s no shame in it, and it’s better to pause than to faint mid-tattoo. By proceeding, you acknowledge these sensations can happen and they’re not the fault of the artist; it’s your body’s response. We’ll take care of you if it happens, but you won’t hold us liable for feeling faint or similar episodes.

    •    Aftercare & Healing: We will provide you with written aftercare instructions specific to your tattoo or piercing. Follow them! They are based on best practices to ensure proper healing. Healing times vary: tattoos typically surface heal in 2-3 weeks (full internal healing a bit longer), piercings can take weeks to months depending on what was pierced. If you have questions during healing, call or message us – we’re happy to guide you. Sometimes a tattoo might peel or scab (normal!) or a piercing might get a little red or crusty (also normal!). We can tell you what’s expected and what’s not. If you deviate from aftercare (use a weird ointment not recommended, or go tanning with a fresh tattoo, etc.), you assume the risk. We cannot guarantee the outcome if aftercare isn’t properly done. Also, once healed, tattoos still need care – use sunscreen on them to keep them vibrant, etc. Piercings should be kept with appropriate jewelry (don’t put low-quality mystery metal in a healed piercing, it can still cause issues).

    •    Smoking/Pet Exposure: This is a minor point, but worth mentioning – if you smoke cigarettes or are around a smoky environment, be aware it can impact healing slightly (especially for oral piercings). Keep smoke away from fresh tattoos (don’t smoke in an enclosed car right after getting a tattoo on your hand, for example; the residue can get on it). For piercings, wash hands after smoking before touching it. Similarly, pet hair/dander can introduce bacteria – don’t let Fluffy lick your new tattoo or cuddle right on a fresh piercing. These might seem obvious, but they’re common culprits for irritation or infection that people might not think of.

    •    Personal Grooming: If you’re getting a tattoo in a hairy area, the artist will shave it. It’s helpful if you come with the area reasonably clean. Avoid heavy perfumes or lotions on the area that day. If you’re getting a piercing, ensure the area is clean (take a shower beforehand, etc.). Good hygiene helps us maintain a clean procedure.

    •    Bloodborne Pathogen Precautions: We treat every client’s blood/body fluids as potentially infectious (using gloves, barriers, etc.). After your procedure, any of your leftover materials (bloodied towels, used needles) are disposed of in proper biohazard containers. We maintain these protocols not just for our safety, but for yours and the next client’s. Our commitment is that there is no risk of cross-contamination when you get tattooed or pierced here – each setup is sterile and broken down afterwards. Our artists undergo bloodborne pathogen training and our studio is inspected by local health authorities. You as a client can also help: do not touch the procedural surfaces, do not bring friends back into the sterile area without permission, and don’t bring food/drinks into the procedure area (water bottle is okay). This all keeps the area clean.

    •    Compliance with Law: We comply with California’s Safe Body Art Act and any other local ordinances. That includes the age restrictions we mentioned, the sterilization procedures, posting our licenses, etc. If you ever want to see our health inspection certificates or an artist’s certification, just ask – we’re proud to be in compliance. If you have any concerns about the cleanliness or process, please voice them; we will address them.

    •    Your Health Changes: If between booking and the appointment your health status changes (you develop a skin infection near the tattoo area, you become pregnant, etc.), let us know before the procedure starts. It might mean we should postpone. It’s better to reschedule than to risk your health. We will be understanding in such cases.

 

By receiving a service at Tattoo Image, you acknowledge that you have been informed of the potential risks (infection, allergic reaction, etc.) and the necessary aftercare. We provide a safe service, but we cannot 100% eliminate all risk, especially once you leave our studio. You agree not to hold Tattoo Image liable for complications that arise despite proper procedure on our part, particularly if those complications are linked to your own actions or unique health factors. We care about your well-being and will do everything we can to ensure a great outcome, working together with you.

 

7. Intellectual Property Rights (Artwork and Website Content)

 

Tattoo Image values creativity and respects intellectual property rights – both ours and those of others. Here’s how intellectual property (IP) applies in our context:

    •    Website Content: The content on our website – including text, images of tattoos or piercings, graphics, logos, and design – is the property of Tattoo Image and/or our individual artists (as applicable) and is protected by copyright, trademark, and other IP laws. You may not use our website content (portfolio images, artist bios, etc.) for any commercial purpose or claim it as your own. You are welcome to share our content via social media or link to our site, but please do not remove watermarks or copyright notices, and always give credit. If you’re unsure whether you can use something, just ask us.

    •    Tattoo Designs: The design that an artist creates for your tattoo is considered their artistic work. In many cases, the artist retains the copyright to the design (even when it’s on your body). This means the artist (and Tattoo Image by extension) has the right to use images of that tattoo in portfolios, on our website or social media, and for other promotional uses. We will, of course, respect your privacy as outlined in the Social Media section. But strictly speaking, we own the images of the work we do. You, as the client, have the right to wear that art on your body, but you typically do not have the right to reproduce the tattoo artwork for other purposes (for example, putting the design on a t-shirt line or using it as a logo) without the artist’s permission. If you desire those rights, you’d need a separate agreement with the artist transferring copyright (usually not done unless negotiated and compensated).

    •    Client-Provided Designs: If you bring us a design (say, a picture from the internet, or your friend drew something), you should have the rights or permission to use it. We operate under the assumption that you either own the design or have permission. However, if it’s obviously a famous copyrighted image (like a Disney character or a corporate logo), know that we are in a gray area: tattooing it on you is generally tolerated (no one has sued a client for wearing a copyrighted image on skin to our knowledge), but reproducing copyrighted images is technically infringement. We do a lot of pop-culture tattoos because clients want them – but be aware, we do not own the rights to those characters or symbols, and neither do you. If the copyright holder ever took issue, it’s theoretically a legal concern (though again, very rare in practice). By providing an image to us to tattoo, you agree to indemnify us against any copyright claims (meaning if someone says we infringed by tattooing that design, you’ll cover us – see Indemnification in Disclaimers). In summary: it’s usually fine, but you take responsibility for using that design.

    •    Original Flash and Art: Many tattoo artists create flash designs (ready-made designs) for clients to choose from. If you pick a flash design from our shop, the artist still retains rights to that design and may tattoo it on others as well (unless it’s sold as a one-off exclusive). If you want a design to be exclusive to you, discuss a custom piece. Even then, the artist may retain the right to display it in portfolios. It’s not common in the industry for artists to sell all rights to a design; you’re paying for the application of it on your body.

    •    Photographs of You/Your Tattoo: As noted, when we photograph your tattoo or piercing for our portfolio, those images belong to us. We will use them responsibly, and they are part of our business’ IP assets. We will not sell your photos to a stock image gallery or anything weird; it’s purely for showcasing our work. You have the right to request we don’t use a photo with your face or identifying features, and we will respect that. We mostly focus on the art itself in photos.

    •    Trademark: “Tattoo Image” and our logos, slogans, or shop name variations are our trademark. Don’t use our name or logo in a way that confuses people into thinking your product or site is affiliated with us without permission. If you want to shout us out (like “I got inked at Tattoo Image!”), that’s cool – just don’t slap our logo on something you’re selling, as that would be infringement.

    •    Use of Third-Party IP: Sometimes we feature other artists or products on our site (with credit). Those items are the IP of their respective owners. For instance, if we show a picture of a brand of ink or jewelry to describe it, that image is likely owned by that brand. We use it nominatively (to describe or review). You should not assume any such third-party content is free for you to reuse. Always respect original sources.

    •    Your Ideas: If you suggest an idea to us (like “you guys should do a design of X”), and we end up creating something based on it, you don’t automatically own that design. The creative execution by our artist is what’s protected. We do appreciate ideas, though!

 

In short, Tattoo Image and our artists maintain intellectual property rights on the artistic content we create and display. We ask that you respect those rights. At the same time, we commit to respecting your rights and any content you provide to us. If any IP issues arise, we prefer to resolve them amicably – just talk to us. Unauthorized use of our website content or artists’ designs is not allowed, and we reserve the right to take appropriate action if it occurs.

 

8. Social Media & Client Photo Usage

 

Tattoo Image has an active social media presence and often shares images of our work (tattoos and piercings), shop updates, and client features. We love showing off the art we create and giving shout-outs to our amazing clients. However, we understand that getting body art can be personal, so we have guidelines on how we use content and what we expect from users interacting with our content.

    •    Photos of Tattoos/Piercings (Our Use): By getting a service at Tattoo Image, you agree that we may photograph or video your tattoo or piercing during and/or after the session, and we may use those images for promotional purposes. This includes posting on our official Tattoo Image social media pages (Instagram: @tattooimagehd, Facebook, etc.), on our website, and in our physical portfolio or shop displays. We do this to showcase the quality of our work and to market our services. We typically do not include your face in these images unless you have given explicit permission or are intentionally posing for a photo that you know will be shared. Most often, we’ll take a close-up of the tattoo or the pierced body part. If you have concerns – for example, the tattoo is very personal or easily identifies you – let us know and we can ensure that any posts are anonymized or avoided. Your comfort is important; you can opt-out of having your tattoo photo posted by simply telling your artist “I’d prefer this not be posted online.” We will respect that. Otherwise, by default, we assume we have your permission to share it as outlined.

    •    Client Privacy: We generally do not tag clients in photos without their consent. If you comment on our post or tag us on your own profile, we might respond or reshared with tagging, but we don’t usually tag full names on our posts due to privacy. If you want a tag or shout-out, that’s awesome – let us know your handle or feel free to tag yourself in the comments. If we inadvertently post something and you change your mind about having it up, contact us and we’ll remove it. We want you to feel good about being featured, not uncomfortable.

    •    Social Media Conduct: We manage our social media pages and aim to keep them friendly and positive. We do not tolerate harassment, hate speech, or trolling in comments. We reserve the right to delete comments or ban users who violate basic respect and decency. If you have a specific issue with your service, we encourage you to contact us directly rather than vent on a public forum – we will listen and try to make it right. Public shaming helps no one. Similarly, we appreciate constructive criticism but blatant false statements about our business may be addressed or removed if defamatory. We hope it never comes up – our goal is that everyone is happy!

    •    Sharing Our Content: If you see a tattoo we did and want to share it on your own social media (maybe it’s your tattoo, or just one you admire), we’d appreciate a tag or credit. We’re proud of our work and happy for it to be shared by individuals as long as it’s clear it was done by Tattoo Image or by the specific artist (tagging the artist is even better!). Please do not crop out our watermark or artist signature if one is on the image. And definitely, do not claim someone else’s tattoo as work you did – this is a problem sometimes in the industry (other artists using images that aren’t theirs). We keep an eye out for that and will address it if we catch it.

    •    Tagging and Reposting You: If you post a photo of the tattoo or piercing you got at our studio and tag @tattooimagehd or hashtag #tattooimagehd, that signals to us that you’re showing off our work. We might DM you to ask if we can repost your photo on our page (giving you credit of course), or we might share it to our story. If you’d rather we not, you can either not tag us or just tell us “please don’t repost.” We’ll respect that. We generally won’t take a client’s personal photo and use it in a permanent post without asking, especially if it shows more than just the art (like your face or other identifying surroundings). We may, however, share it in our temporary stories as a “client share” type of thing, assuming positive intent.

    •    Consent for Videos/Live: Occasionally, we do live videos or time-lapse recordings of tattoos. If we plan to film your session, we will ask you first. You have every right to decline being filmed. If you agree, the video might be posted or streamed. Again, we focus on the tattoo/piercing process, not on making you uncomfortable. Any releases needed will be handled if it’s a professional shoot.

    •    External Platforms: Keep in mind that anything on social media can be seen widely. If a post goes viral or is shared by others, Tattoo Image isn’t in control of it beyond our own channels. For instance, a tattoo we post might get shared by a tattoo enthusiast page. We always watermark or credit our work to try to keep the chain of attribution, but not everyone will. That’s the nature of social media. By allowing us to post, you acknowledge this possibility. We will take down original posts if requested, but we can’t pull back what third-parties have done.

    •    Reviews and Feedback: If you leave us a review on Facebook, Google, Yelp, or elsewhere, be honest and factual. We welcome feedback and use it to improve. However, note that making false statements could have legal implications (defamation). This is just a general note – we have wonderful clients and rarely encounter malicious reviews. We might feature positive reviews on our site or social (with attribution like first name or username). If you have a private concern, again, reach out to us directly. We aim to resolve issues. Public call-outs should be a last resort if we truly failed to address something. But with open communication, we hope to avoid that scenario entirely.

    •    Client Confidentiality: Apart from imagery, anything you tell us (medical info, personal stories during the tattoo, etc.) is kept private. We’re kind of like bartenders or hairdressers – we might chat and hear personal stuff, but we don’t go blabbing it around. We certainly don’t post personal info on social media. So you can trust that your session, aside from the art result, is confidential. The only exception is if something arises that is a threat to safety (e.g., someone admits to a serious crime or intent to harm) – then, like any business, we might have to inform authorities. This is extremely unlikely to occur in the context of tattooing.

 

In summary, by engaging with Tattoo Image in the studio or online, you consent to our reasonable use of images of the work we do for you, and you agree to engage respectfully on our online platforms. We value the community we have and aim to celebrate the art and the individuals who wear it, with mutual respect for privacy and propriety.

 

9. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

 

The operation of Tattoo Image (both the website and the physical studio) is subject to certain legal frameworks. By doing business with us or using our site, you agree to the following regarding governing law and how disputes will be handled:

    •    Governing Law: These Terms and any services provided by Tattoo Image shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California, USA. This applies regardless of where you access our website from or where you reside. California’s body art laws and general contract laws will apply. Federal law may apply in certain cases (e.g., trademark), but by and large, California law is what we operate under. We make no representations that our website content is appropriate or available for use in other locations; if you’re accessing from elsewhere, you do so on your own initiative and are responsible for compliance with local laws if any.

    •    Jurisdiction: In the event of any dispute that results in legal action, the parties (you and Tattoo Image) agree that such disputes shall be resolved in the courts of San Bernardino County, California, or if appropriate, the federal court encompassing that jurisdiction. You consent to the personal jurisdiction of these courts. Basically, if you want to sue us (or we sue you), it’s going to be in California. By engaging our services, you’re kind of coming to our “home turf,” legally speaking. This is standard for local businesses.

    •    Dispute Resolution Preference: We genuinely believe most issues can be resolved through open communication. If you have a complaint or dispute with Tattoo Image, we strongly encourage you to contact us first and try to work it out amicably. This could be a face-to-face discussion, a phone call, or an email exchange. We take customer satisfaction seriously and will listen to your concerns. Often, what might be a misunderstanding or a small problem can be resolved without any formal action.

    •    Arbitration Clause: (If we choose to include one) – To avoid lengthy court battles, Tattoo Image may opt to include an arbitration agreement for disputes. This would mean that, except for certain special cases (like small claims or intellectual property issues), any dispute arising under these Terms or related to our services would be settled by binding arbitration rather than in court. Arbitration is a private process where a neutral arbitrator (like a judge but not in a court) makes a decision. If an arbitration clause is included, it typically would also waive the right to a jury trial and perhaps class action (meaning you can’t band together with others in a lawsuit; you have to do it individually). However, including an arbitration clause is a significant decision. We might not include it here explicitly, but note that if a dispute were to escalate, we might propose arbitration at that time as a way to solve it efficiently. We’re not a big corporation trying to force unfair terms on clients; we just want fairness on both sides. (We’ll assume no mandatory arbitration for now unless specified.)

    •    Limitation on Claims: Any claim or cause of action you might have arising out of or related to your use of the website or our services must be filed within a certain time frame. For instance, we might specify it must be brought within one year after the cause of action occurred, otherwise it’s barred. This is to ensure things are dealt with while fresh, and not years later. This doesn’t apply to something like a warranty (we don’t really have multi-year warranties anyway), but it means if you’re going to claim we did something wrong, you should bring it up sooner rather than later.

    •    Attorney’s Fees: In any legal action between us and a client, the prevailing party may be entitled to recover attorney’s fees and court costs from the other party. That means if you sue us and lose, you might have to pay our legal fees, and vice versa. This is meant to discourage frivolous lawsuits or stubborn fights when one side is clearly in the right. Again, we hope never to go there; this is just a standard clause.

    •    Severability: If any part of these Terms (including this Governing Law & Dispute section) is found to be illegal or unenforceable, that part can be removed and the rest of the Terms will still remain in effect. For example, if a court said “the waiver of class action is not enforceable,” the rest of the arbitration clause (if present) might still be enforced, or if not, at least the rest of the Terms still stand.

    •    Entire Agreement: These Terms (along with any written waivers or consents you sign in person) constitute the entire agreement between you and Tattoo Image regarding the services and the website. Any other promises or understandings, unless put in writing and signed by both, are not legally binding. For instance, if a friend of an artist says “they’ll definitely give you a refund if X happens,” but that’s not actually our policy, it’s not binding. What’s in these Terms and in official documents is what governs.

    •    Modification: We reserve the right to modify these Terms from time to time. If we do, and you’re a returning client or continuing to use our site, we’ll consider you to have accepted the updated terms. We will post the latest Terms on our website with an updated effective date. It’s a good idea to review them periodically, especially if a lot of time has passed between your visits or appointments. That said, if there’s a major change in policy, we may actively inform regular clients or post signage in the shop.

 

We sincerely hope to never see the inside of a courtroom with our clients. Our goal is for you to leave happy, come back for more art, and recommend us to friends. These legal terms are in place just in case and to clarify how things would work if disputes arose. By doing business with us, you are agreeing to resolve any issues in accordance with the above provisions.

 

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Thank you for taking the time to read Tattoo Image’s Terms of Service. We know it’s a lot of information, but we believe in transparency and fairness. If you have any questions about these Terms or any of our policies, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to provide not only amazing tattoos and piercings but also a professional and comfortable experience from start to finish.