I like to think I am somewhat of an expert in this field as I am "tatted up" as them young folk would say.
First things first, decide on what you want and I mean more than just deciding you want a lion. I mean what style, realistic? drawing? cartoony? tribal?... etc.
Once you decide what style you would like, then start your search for a tattooist. Look for someone with both a good reputation and alot of experience with the style you want. For example I go to a guy right now because the sleeve he is doing is an abstract piece and that (along with comics) are his specialty, but if I wanted a portrait I would go to someone else. Most artists have certain styles they excel in.
At this point if you can speak to the tattooist about designing one for you. This step may cost extra as you can go in with your own design, but I would highly recommend having the artist design the piece because then they are working with their own piece not their interpretation of someone else's art. They will also understand the amount of detail that can be used in pieces of different sizes and from my own experience I can say this is extremely important.
Your placement, will also affect the size you will get it as obviously not all body parts are the same size. But it is also important to consult the tattooist because the contours of the body can make some designs more difficult if they are placed there.
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