First Tattoos

Ok I'm planning on getting my first tattoo within the next month or so. It's a big piece. Down my side from the bottom of my armpit to the top of my hip roughly and theres a lot of detail involved. I know that this is a senstive area to tattoo and that's the reason it's going where it is. It symbolizes alot and means the world to me. I've wanted to get this done for about a year now and have had my mind set on it ever since. People have been anything but supportive about this tattoo because it is my first and where it's going. They've said it's a bad idea to get a big piece done if it's your first especially in the spot that it's going. Let me say this...I need this to hurt at least a little. It stand for something very strong and it's my belief that if something means that much to you...you should be willing to overcome a little pain. Is this really as bad of an idea as these people claim? Or should I ignore it?

P.S. I know this is a site for artists...which I obviously am not. I just figured I'd go to the source. My appologies. I won't post garbage in your forums again haha promise. Just wanted as much feedback as possible

Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law

One of the most important things when getting a big piece is, that the artist is REALLY good. Do you have someone picked allready?

The bigger the better...if you went with a smaller version, or something smaller you would end up regreting it later. If it means so much to you get it and f$#k everyone else. Oh, and it will hurt, probably multiple sessions of pain, good luck!!!

I'm more then ready for it to hurt. Pain is pleasure in my book lol As for an artist. I'm looking at 2 at the moment. Both are very good. One is a good friend of mine Kevin (but its hard to find time with him becuz he tours ALOT with his bands) and the other is this guy Sebastian. He did a few pieces on a friend of mine and he's QUITE talented. I guess he's an Eternal award winner? That's what his business card says lol As good as he is though...he still makes me nervous becuz he free-hands just about everything.

There's something to be said for the free hand tattoo artist...just remember what he draws on you before the tattoo will usually look ten times better when it comes out. He can see what it's going to look like in his head and generally will outline the area to make sure it contours with the body. Make sure you check out alot of his work before you make the commitment though, I have seen poor free hand tattooists out there. Good luck, and enjoy the pain cuz I sure as fuck don't!

Thank you all!!! Much appreciated