An Unorthodox approach

Video Consultations

January 31, 20253 min read

The Evolution of Tattoo Consultations: From Walk-ins to Worldwide Connections

On screen creation with Mickey Schlick

A Pioneer in Digital Consultations

Even before founding Montana Tattoo Company, I was early to adopt online consultations in the tattoo industry. Looking back, it's remarkable how much has changed. Fifteen years ago, we were revolutionary simply for creating a system that could connect clients with available artists and manage walk-in requests effectively - a concept many shops struggled to grasp at the time. Now I can make it happen more quickly than I can get any artists to show up.

The Digital Revolution of 2025

As someone passionate about digital innovation and continuous learning, I'm excited to announce our latest evolution in client consultations. While some may have found our previous automated phone system impersonal, I've developed a new approach that actually brings more humanity back into our interactions. People contacting "Montana Tattoo Company" will still get a machine, but you have the ability to dial through to your artist. For myself, I have been won over to the world of video calling. Clients are still able to come to the shop and talk about your tattoos, but handling the initial consultation this way not only ensures we are the proper fit but the program can take notes for me so I have time and room to draw for you or search for reference with you. Additionally my screen can be on your screen rather than needing to look over my shoulder on watch what I'm doing upside down. Again, I'm an early adopter but I love trying new solutions to old problems.

A More Personal Approach Through Technology

Our new consultation process combines the best of both worlds:

  • Face-to-face Zoom consultations that can happen anywhere in the world, and since many of our clients travel in

  • Smart follow-up systems that ensure we capture every detail of your vision

  • Screen sharing capabilities that allow us to draw and collaborate in real-time

  • Comprehensive digital note-taking that keeps me present and engaged during our conversations

What Makes This Different

The entire system has been personally designed and programmed by me, ensuring it aligns perfectly with the tattoo consultation process. While it maintains the efficiency of digital tools, it prioritizes genuine human connection. Every error or quirk in the system is mine to own and improve - the buck always stops here so the more notes you can give me on exactly where and how an error occurs the faster I can fix them! I know this is impersonal for some but I really hate letting people slip through the cracks or forgetting any details along the way.

The Benefits for You

  • Flexibility to meet virtually from anywhere in the world

  • A personally designed conversation via text to refine your project details

  • Visual collaboration through screen sharing and real-time drawing

  • Comprehensive documentation for me accessible across all devices

  • Option to still meet in person at the shop after the initial consultation.

This evolution allows me to show up more prepared and focused for every client interaction, while maintaining detailed records that help bring your vision to life.

Let's create something amazing together, wherever you are in the world.

Mickey Schlick

Mickey Schlick has been a tattoo artist for 22 years, owned Montana Tattoo Company for 10 and also runs Lowbrow Knowhow in his limited free time. Get in touch!!

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