How to Photograph Tattoos for Portfolios and Social Media

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How to Photograph Tattoos for Portfolios and Social Media

Pamela Carvalho shares pro tips for photographing tattoos that highlight your work - no glare, no clutter, just clean, honest shots that build trust.

In collaboration with Pamela Carvalho

May 16, 2025

Artwork By: Simon Teigeiro, Photo Credit: Seyi Ariyo

If the tattoo tells a story, the photo is its echo. A muddy echo doesn’t do the work justice. Pamela Carvalho understands this better than most. Her tattoos speak in color, shape, and healed skin. When it comes to capturing them, she has rules, because good photography isn’t about filters or flair. It’s about respecting the work.

Here’s what Pamela swears by when shooting tattoos for social or your portfolio:

1. Always Use Healed Photos

If the tattoo tells a story, the photo is its echo. A muddy echo doesn’t do the work justice. Pamela Carvalho understands this better than most. Her tattoos speak in color, shape, and healed skin. When it comes to capturing them, she has rules, because good photography isn’t about filters or flair. It’s about respecting the work.

Here’s what Pamela swears by when shooting tattoos for social or your portfolio:

Pamela Carvalho

Diamante Murru

2. Light Like You Mean It

Whether you’re using studio setups or a window, lighting can make or break the shot. Pamela recommends polarized lighting and a polarized lens to reduce glare and highlight true tones.

But don’t overthink it. Natural light works too, just ensure it’s soft and directional. Harsh overheads? A big no.

3. Avoid Deep Shadows

A little contrast is fine. But if a shadow is obscuring half your tattoo, it’s not doing the art any favors. Adjust your angles. Move the light. You want clarity, not mystery.

Gian Karle

Austin Maples

Ari Tattoo

4. Moisturize Before You Shoot

Dry skin dulls everything. Moisturized skin helps rejuvenate tattoos, especially on healed areas. Just don’t overdo it. You want a glow, not a gloss.

5. Keep the Background Clean

Let the tattoo be the focal point. This means no clutter, no distractions, and certainly no bathroom mirrors. Keep it neutral. Allow the ink to breathe.

Taryn McIntyre

Man with dreadlocks and black work tattoos on his neck and chest

Simon Teigeiro

6. Don’t Over Edit

Pamela’s golden rule? If it doesn’t look like that in real life, don’t post it. Over-saturation, skin-smoothing, or digital reshaping distorts the art and disrespects the process. Your portfolio should be a mirror, not a mask.

The goal isn’t just to capture a good photo; it’s to create an honest one. When you shoot with intention, you protect your reputation, support your style, and give potential clients a genuine look at what you do best.

Want to see how Pamela does it? Watch her full walkthrough @cocreateartists.