New to tattooing, not tats

First, I’d like to say that after several weeks, hours, and sleepless nights researching everything tattoo related, I am amazed by this “Forum”. I’ve read just about every post and there is nothing but respect and support. There seems to be a group of “professional” artists out there that have some serious issues with the individual right as a free citizen to exercise their right to self expression. People and cultures have been preforming tattoos for thousands of years(without an autoclave), for Christ’s sake!). I’ve spent numerous hours and several(and I do mean several) hundred dollars get work done by “professional” artist’s, and I never realized until I started reading stuff online that this whole “Industry” is bogus. I’ve learned that just because a person opens up a shop, has access to an autoclave, and a blinking neon sign does not make him or her special. It is a front to the public in order to “legitimize” an ancient and modern underground form of self expression. I’m embarrassed to admit this but I even caught a few episodes of L.A. Ink. In the 2 to 3 episodes that i saw Cat Von D(or whatever), broke every ” tattooing” rule there was. 1). Tattooing a t.v. celebrity in his own living room. 2). Tattooing an obviously intoxicated Steve-O(Jack-ass), and then 3)., During a session with a BMXer he takes the machine from her and tattoos on her leg. I know, I know t.v. editing and all that… but it just reinforced some of my past experiences. Summary: all the shop loving “professionals” out there that try intimidating people from even pursuing this art with out access to an autoclave or apprenticeship… get over yourselves. “Newbies” like me, we access to green soap, disposable tube/tip/needle combos, plastic wrap, and you know the list. I’ve recently started my first self tattoo and I’m loving it! Artist’s are their own worst critic but my wife and teenage girls think it’s very good, and observed the process and see how much I’m into it. My personal advice to those serious minded people out there that want to get started: 1). Definitely have some sense of what “art” is. I know that this may be a bit philosophical sounding, but this will only save you(and hopefully not someone else) unnecessary pain. 2). Only tattoo yourself until you feel confidant enough to move onto others. I mean come on… you shouldn’t expect to impress others until you are impressed with your own work. And I’m the first to admit that semester after semester of drawing and painting courses, I have a long way to go. Tattoo machines and learning the effects of needle groupings and technique are challenging. And last # 3). When tattooing (practicing) on yourself… ALWAYS, ALWAYS act and set up as if you are a “professional”(I know… I said it). Spend a little money on green soap, gloves, etc… Don’t be a freakin’ cheap skate, this is your skin!!!!. Take your time setting up. Attempt to predict all your necessities ahead of time. Use only disposable(single use gear). Strive extremely hard to cross contaminate(it helps that my wife is a Dental Assistant). Have fun and be safe. Thanks for reading. Looking forward to your comments. Matt