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About Flamingo Tattoos
Flamingos are showstoppers. Their unique stance and vibrant color separate them from the rest of the birds. Let’s be honest, they’re a must-see whenever we go to the zoo too.
But, flamingos aren’t just pretty animals to stare at. The species actually has many elegant characteristics and unique symbolism associated with it that make some people choose to get the pink bird as a tattoo.
And if you’re considering getting a flamingo tattoo, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ll help you understand the flamingo tattoo meaning so you can decide if it’s the right tattoo for you.
Plus, you’ll learn lots more about this unique design. And after reading this guide, you’ll understand:
- What the flamingo symbolizes
- Places to consider getting the tattoo on your body
- Average price points to expect for the design
- Different flamingo tattoo ideas to choose from
- History relating to the animal and the artwork
A flamingo tattoo can be tailored to any shape, size, and style preference. So, even if you think the tattoo might not be for you, you might start to think otherwise once you learn more about it.
What Do Flamingo Tattoos Mean And Symbolize?
The flamingo tattoo has much more symbolism and meaning than you’d think. Even though the bird isn’t native to many regions, its symbolism has reached many areas of the world.
Since they thrive in warmer weather, they’re usually associated with the tropics, and who doesn’t love a good reminder of the sun and beach?
The tattoo can also be a symbol of elegance and balance in the cutest way possible. Since the species sleeps on one of its legs, people associate that habit with the trait of incredible balance.
The bright pink color is a symbol in itself. The powerful shade evokes emotions of happiness and romance that are now connected to the flamingo.
This is why it’s a popular tattoo choice among women, as the color has a long history relating to femininity and romance that should be embraced.
Funnily enough, the flamingos are viewed as the best parents in the bird family. They’re known to take extremely good care of their chicklets from the hatching to maturing stage. So, the tattoo has also evolved into a symbol of protection that you can link to your family.
Since the flamingo is both rare and distinctive, it’s also a great symbol of uniqueness.
If you’re known to stay true to yourself and stand out from the crowd, then you can use the bird as a symbol to showcase this eccentric trait.
Where To Get A Flamingo Tattoo
Flamingos definitely have a quirky shape and stance. And, of course, the bird has a long skinny neck and legs.
A flamingo tattoo design will fit perfectly on the longer areas of your body like your arms and legs. A few spots to consider getting your flamingo tattoo designs are:
- Front or inner forearm
- Bicep
- Hips (this spot can be so graceful and womanly!)
- Ribcage
- Calf
- Back of neck
- Ankle
Whether it’s big or small, this tattoo doesn’t require excessive detailing so it can be done in smaller areas. Personally, I adore the tiny tattoo trend and have a few decorated across my body.
Plus, any flamingo tattoo ideas can be modified to fit your personal artistic taste.
It’s not just about choosing a spot to get the flamingo tattoo though, it’s also a good idea to think about which area will maintain the best-looking design for you and your lifestyle.
If you want your tattoo to look as vibrant as possible for many years, there are some things you need to know.
Although the species loves the sun, your tattoo won’t. If the ink experiences a lot of time in the sun’s rays, it might make the design fade quicker than it should—especially if it’s exposed during the healing time.
So, if you’re an avid tanner then you might want to choose a spot that can be shaded from those strong UV rays.
Constant rubbing isn’t good for your tattoo either. For example, if you get the tattoo on your wrist but wear a watch every day then it might rub against the design and lead to fading too.
This won’t always be the case, but it’s something to think about before you drop some cash on a tattoo.
Most importantly, be a good parent like the flamingo when taking care of your ink for the first little bit.
How you treat the tattoo during the healing process will be a big factor in determining how it will finally look. Your artist will likely give you some care instructions to follow as well.
If you aren’t sure how to take care of your new tattoo or need a quick reminder then we got your back. Firstly, keep it constantly moisturized with non-fragranced cream (you can buy the lotion anywhere).
Also, make sure the area you got the tattoo avoids the sun and water.
Plus, keep in mind that the tattoo will scab as it heals. And don’t pick the scabbing even if it looks like it’s ready to come off. Let it peel naturally. Otherwise, it might distort the final outcome of the design.
How Much Do Flamingo Tattoos Cost?
The price of your new and trendy flamingo tattoo will be based on a few different factors. When trying to predict the final cost of your tattoo, here’s what you should consider:
- Size of the tattoo
- If intricate details are part of the design
- If you want to add color
- Quality of the ink
- Tattoo style you like the best
If you didn’t already guess, the more space the tattoo takes up on your body then the more expensive it will be. A bigger tattoo needs more ink and time spent during the drawing and tattooing process.
Basically, the longer you’re sitting in the artist’s chair then the higher the total will be.
If you’re honoring the distinguishable hot pink hue of the bird species, then the price will likely go up.
Colored ink costs more for the artist to buy and replace than the basic black ink, so it’s only fair they charge more. It takes tattoo artists extra time to mix colors and do shading with colored ink too.
If you’re adamant about featuring that bright pink color in your tattoo design, then the quality of the ink will be very important. You’ll want your ink to stay bold and lively for a while, so choose an artist that invests in the highest quality materials.
The flamingo tattoo is versatile and can be designed in any style. So, if you aren’t familiar with the different tattooing styles then do some research first.
You might like a fine line look or watercolor technique—and these techniques are best done by artists who have expertise in the style you choose.
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History Of Flamingo Tattoo
Recognized for its rare and cheerful appearance, the flamingo has become a symbol for local and regional locations. For example, the Bahamas adopted the species as its national bird.
In Florida, many people place plastic flamingo figurines on their front lawns. Some Florida residents would even prefer that the flamingo be the state bird instead of the mockingbird.
The flamingo has a deep-rooted history in spiritual and religious traditions as well. Spiritually speaking, the bird has been referred to as a transmitter of light. And this process symbolizes souls reaching the light from the darkness.
In the religious practice of shamanism, the bird is used for soulful lessons because of its color.
The species’ gorgeous color is caused by their diet that’s full of carotenoids, which causes the pink shade. Shamans use this to preach the idea to keep moving forward and flourishing in life so you can reach your full potential.
The flamingo is also said to embody the Egyptian God of the sun, Ra. So, you’ll find a few references and symbols of the bird found throughout Egypt’s culture and history.
Feng Shui, a Chinese practice of aiming to harmonize your surroundings, claims that incorporating flamingo statues or photos throughout your home will bring luck, prosperity, and peace.
As you can see, the unique bird has a rich history. Historically, it’s been a symbol of both balance and harmony. And this relates perfectly to the flamingo tattoo meanings we introduced you to.
Which Celebrities Have A Flamingo Tattoo?
DJ Melissa Marie Green has had her flamingo tattoo since 2013. The Millionaires member chose the animal to add to her American traditional style sleeve at the bottom of her forearm.
She added the iconic pink color to the tattoo a year later. Her design features a pair of flamingos staring at each other intensely.
Filipina actress and model, Coleen Garcia Crawford, has a classic flamingo tattooed down the side of her wrist and forearm area.
The star, with over eight million followers on Instagram, lets the animal be the focal point in her design and keeps the color bright but neutral too for her fair skin tone.
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