Amazing Tattoo Photography: 6 Step Guide

Thanks to alternative models, charismatic tattoo artists and proud celebrities, the tattoo has become the focus of art and fashion photography.

It's great for fans to show them off on social media, and even magazines are asking readers for more photos. But in this flood of shots, how can you make your cream of the trade? Here are some tips (and a selection of great tattoo photos).

Fab 5 (Belgium) has a lot of photos of cool tattoos in their portfolio.

1) No need to channel your inner Miley Cyrus First, wait until your tattoo is completely healed. A red skin tattoo is only good in a tattoo artist's portfolio when his or her client can't send in a clean photo afterwards. Then, if you're not into acting, opt for a simple pose where the tattoo is right in front of the lens. Less is often more when it comes to photography. Is your tattoo on the front? Stand facing the camera and make your best poker face.

Epic portrait of Russian alternative model Teya Salat by Daniil Kontorovich (St. Petersburg, Russia). The highlight is her large tribal tattoo on her neck.

2) The sun is your friend (and avoid high energy bills) Light: important for any photography, but especially when you want to showcase the masterpieces you are proud of on your skin. Avoid bathroom selfies with bad neon lights: daylight is the best lighting an amateur can use, and it will even add a bit of mood and photojournalism's reputation. Street style is in fashion, go for it! If you have studio skills, you can draw attention to the tattoos and use soft shadows to add a bit of mystery.

Photographer Charles Hamilton (Glasgow, Scotland) loves to capture moments of street life. The model looks very natural, and the frame is spectacular.

3) Your shower curtain is not the next internet star. Choose your background. You strive for the best: go big or go home! Ladies usually prefer to shoot in a boudoir for a sexy mood, but if you want to show your artistic side, find some cool place with colorful or graphic murals, graffiti, big painting, etc. A tattoo parlor is also a good asset, but remember that you should not interfere with professionals at work!

Ink Magazine photographer Andy Hartmark (Los Angeles, USA) decided to photograph Finnish tattoo artist and model Sarah Fable against a beautiful mural.

Tattoo artist Amy James posed for Richard Fibbs in front of a New York City view for a TLC NY Ink promotion. The Empire State antenna resembles a tattoo needle.

4) Choose your photographer wisely Wide open hand, crooked face with this trick you can use in every selfie. Not really, my friend, especially if your tattoos are in awkward places. Yes, you have this handy friend. But will he or she make the attempt that will take you to the top? Take the risk of contacting young professionals in your area or online to make sure you're at your advantage. A good eye can make sparks (if not miracles).

5) You might not wear a suit for your birthday. Nobody minds a little sideways. But if you want to stay stylish (and show the photo to grandma), choose your outfit wisely. Lingerie and leather are sexy, as is a great T-shirt and tie. Tattooed people look good in suits, Luke Wessman proved it. Don't be afraid to play with contrasts. But remember: tattoos improve fashion, not the other way around. Now, if you're confident enough to bare it all, you can always avoid embarrassing comments with some artistic gimmick, like a fully clothed person next to you (or a cute puppy, cute puppies fit everywhere).

6) Tattoos are a message If you're not narcissistic, even downright shy, or if you want to make a statement, you can choose to remain anonymous by hiding your face. This will focus the viewer's eye on the tattoos, prove that you are smart and allow yourself a little erotica (no, grandma, it's not me, I promise).

A very sexy shot by Brian Cummings (USA), who also shot tattoo artist Corey Miller, lots of sexy tattooed girls and a hilarious ad for whitening strips with tattooed models.

And if none of these tips satisfies you, there is always an opportunity to try: humor. And cute puppies.