Your name as a brand?

*I just posted this on Nick Baxter's site and thought I'd post it here too.* I was just wondering what you all felt about the age of "Use my brand and you'll tattoo like me" products, such as dvd's, inks, machines, books, etc... I'm actually pretty neutral on the subject but was wondering what others thought. Maybe I shouldn't be so specific but I recently found that Ami James has a line of inks out, not to mention other well noted artists that have inks and other products out. Is this a smart business move? Are the artists taking advantage of "wannabe's"? For example, I have noticed that the "Big Guys" that do the painterly styles are Really good at what they do. But the tattooers who try to emulate them are doing work that, while it looks advanced, is pretty crappy in a technical way..and I'm guessing won't last. It lacks a "tightness" to it. I admit, I'm kinda writing this "on the fly" and haven't put too much thought into it. But, still, I wonder what your opinions are. Partake if you will. :)

personally i think it all boils down to the allmighty$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

I would say If you're interested in learning a particular style then I would start off buying a dvd. There you may find the information you need, It should explain why you may want to use those particular products. And a good dvd instructional has tons of good techniques and tips. I've been thing of picin up a few myself. Good luck.