I have four tattoos. Two that actually mean something and two that are just sort of flash art. I'll put my two cents in and agree that its not something you want to do on a whim. Take the time to plan out something that means a great deal to you, cuz you are going to have it for many many years to come. Spend the money for a custom designed piece, some of the flash art is pretty good but not nearly as nice as a well drawn custom piece.

Right upper arm-globe with lightning bolt (first tat, badly done)
Left upper arm-Winged gargoyle (second tat, first custom)
Right calf-skeletal dragon (flash art from Singapore, badly healed)
Left calf-my family crest (needs work, but still my favorite)