SK-
Don't use anyone's word as gospel..... use it only as advice. There is so much that goes into selecting an artist. Use the web to search for shops in your area. After picking a couple... go to them. Just walk in and look around. Look for dirt in the corners and the cleanliness of other things in the shop.
If it's not spotless, leave. If they don't care enough to keep their shop clean they sure aren'y going to care about you.
Even after you pick a shop, ask to meet the artist that will be doing your tattoo. A good feeling and vibe with your artist makes a world of difference and makes the whole experience even better.
Remember.... especially for portraits...... cheaper rates, lousy tattoo. Pay the extra bucks for a good artist.... after all, that tattoo will be yours for the rest of your life.