Tattooing darker skin tones can be a challenge for many new artists. Tattoo artist Young Phoenix says less is more.

"Start with more of a bold outline and use a light source. As I use their skin complexion with a light source, the whole design pops," he says.

Making sure to start with a sharp outline and paying attention to your client's skin tone is Tattoo 101 for any new artist. Phoenix says there’s certain colors that will pop and others that won’t work for darker skin.

"The goal of any artist is to be able to see a tattoo from far away," Phoenix says.  Phoenix is one of the dozens of artists who attend tattoo conventions around the city to continue to grow his clientele.