I've stated my opinion on tattoos before. It hink you should only get a tattoo if you are REALLY sure. You won't be able to easily change it or get rid of it, so be sure it's not just a whim to get a snake on your leg.
I have two, and I don't regret either one, they make me happy. Both of mine are on the upper arm. Fleshy areas are less painful than boney areas. That's why feet hurt worse. The feeling is more like a scraping than anything else. My first one didn't hurt at all, and the second one was uncomfortable, but wasn't bad. Being female, I'll tell you, be sure you are not on your period, as I'm pretty sure that's what made my second one worse, and my friends said the same.
The hygeine of the shop is above all else most important. Make sure they have a tattoo-only room. Make sure they will open sealed packs of needles in front of you, and that they have proper equipment for sterilizing. Also, take proper care of it afterwards!!!
I'm planning a ball python tattoo for me too, but mine iwll most likely be a pied in color, I like color in my tattoos.
I am planning one black and white only tattoo, but it won't be a family-friendly one. The next tattoos will be one thighs, and posibly more on one arm.
Good luck!