input: [Reference Type] Photo of an object [Drawbacks] Almost anything depicted in a photo will need to be “translated” into something that can actually be tattooed. Even if you want the final tattoo to be “photo-realistic”, the tattooist will first need to create the structure (stencils) for the tattoo based on the photo, and will most likely need to make modifications in one way or another for the ink to hold up well on skin over time. Many customers over the years have been disappointed having found a photo they felt would make a perfect tattoo only to find that the image could not be recreated on skin in the way they wanted. [Benefits] 
output: Best use is for objects that aren't commonly used as tattoo themes. If you want a tattoo of an old diving helmet (not a common tattoo theme), it might be best to browse photos of a helmet such as this online. Additionally, if you want an animal (like a deer) in a specific pose, best is to bring a photo of the animal in the pose you like, along with any Tattoo Friendly® reference you find representing the style you like. If you bring an actual object to a tattooist (like say, perhaps a 50’s style woman’s hat), the tattooist will most likely photograph it and then use that photograph as their reference.