Sacramento is the capital of California, and I expected to see a typical metropolis with skyscrapers and crazy traffic. In reality, the city turned out to be surprisingly quiet and cozy, feeling more like a small town where everything is within reach. But we aren't here for the architecture; we’re here for the Capital City Tattoo Expo—a convention that, this time around, was almost entirely dedicated to "tradition".
Standing Out in a Sea of Tradition
When I walked into the hall, it became clear: I was the odd one out. The room was packed with American traditional, Japanese, and Chicano styles. I was likely the only artist there bringing full-color realism to the table. Surprisingly, being the outlier worked in my favor:
- The Novelty Effect: Many attendees weren't looking for something specific, and my style became a breath of fresh air for them.
- Visual Impact: My booth, featuring a bright orange banner and a screen showcasing my portfolio, did a great job of catching people's eyes—it’s much more effective than just asking them to find your Instagram.
- The Result: Despite the heavy focus on traditional styles, I found a client on the very first day and finished a complex piece on the side of the knee.
Pro Tips for Tattoo Conventions
If you’re planning to hit the convention circuit in the U.S., here are a couple of insider logistical tips:
- Stick with the Organizer’s Hotel: I made the mistake of booking a budget studio a 7-minute drive away. It turns out the hotel the organizers offered was right next to the convention center—literally a two-minute walk—included parking, and only cost about $100 more. Always check the convention’s hotel deals; it saves a ton of energy.
- Affordable Booths & Supplies: A full booth here was only $500 for three days, which is a steal compared to major shows like Empire State, where prices can exceed $1,000. Plus, the package included essentials like sharps containers, sanitizers, aprons, and even a bag of supplies from sponsors.
Meeting the Legends
The best part of these events is the neighborhood. Just a few booths down from me were absolute titans of the industry: Robert Hernandez from Madrid, who keeps it classic with coil machines and natural light ; the legendary Jack Rudy; Ami James from Miami Ink ; and the incredible Derek Noble, whose work I’ve known since 2010.
The first day was incredibly productive, even with my printer acting up at the last second. There are two more days ahead, and I’m sure there will be plenty more to see.
