Driven by discipline and an uncompromising eye for detail, Daniel Sholtin is a realism tattoo artist from Ryazan, Russia, whose work reflects both technical mastery and personal responsibility. Self-taught and shaped by years of study, long sessions, and constant self-critique, Daniel approaches tattooing as a refined craft, one where realism must be not only accurate, but visually powerful on the body. From Russia’s rapidly evolving tattoo scene to winning more than 20 convention awards to judging festivals and refining his approach to realism, Daniel shares insights on pricing, ethics, inspiration, and what separates good tattooing from truly great work.
How would you like to introduce yourself?
My name is Daniel Sholtin. I am a tattoo artist from Russia. I am based in Ryazan, Russia, and I work at Solt Studio.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Russia these days?
The tattoo industry in Russia is currently in a phase of active growth and development. Many artists have already become strong representatives of their styles worldwide, and today there is a huge number of tattoo festivals held across the country.
How would you define yourself in one word?
Perfectionist.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
I became interested in tattoos in 2008. In 2011, I decided to try tattooing myself after drawing a sketch for my aunt. The tattoo artist used a different design and the result was very poor, which motivated me to try doing it myself because I felt I could do much better.
What does tattooing mean to you personally?
For me, a tattoo is primarily an adornment an expensive accessory that can say a lot about its owner.
At what point in your life did you decide to become a professional tattoo artist?
I started tattooing while studying at the police academy. I was 18 years old, and by that time I already understood that I wouldn’t work in the police force.
How did your family react when you started a career in tattooing?
At first, my family saw tattooing as a hobby and expected me to work in the police. Over time, their attitude changed, and now they are happy with my career choice.
Did you go through an apprenticeship? How was that experience?
I am self-taught. I learned by reading forums on tattoo websites, studying the work of famous artists online, and developing my drawing skills. Improving my artistic foundation took the most time.
What did your first tattoo look like?
My first tattoo was a Chinese character, done on a friend from the academy. It looked decent visually but healed poorly.
Do you usually do guest spots? If yes, what’s your experience in doing them?
Yes, I work as a guest artist within Russia, in various cities. I haven’t worked abroad yet, mainly because I haven’t received interesting offers from studios outside the country.
As a Tattoo Artist, what does your daily working routine look like?
I almost always work full sessions, usually 7–10 hours a day. Many of my projects require multiple sessions.
What is one surprising aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The fact that everything depends entirely on yourself – your development, discipline, organization, and results.
How do you determine the price of a tattoo?
I believe the most accurate pricing method is charging per hour. However, I usually set a fixed price per session because sometimes I need extra time to perfect the work without rushing or compromising quality.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Today, it’s no longer enough to just make great tattoos. Artists also need to present themselves correctly on social media, show their daily lives, and be visible, while still managing long sessions and routine work.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The client’s reaction and the final result. I also value the freedom this profession gives, traveling, working worldwide, and building life on your own terms.
What tools and machines do you prefer to use?
I trust only reliable manufacturers. I currently use the Cobra machine by Ink Machines. I used to work with magnetic cartridges, but since they are no longer available in Russia, I now use cartridges from other manufacturers.
What’s your number one aftercare advice for clients?
Strictly follow the artist’s recommendations, and most importantly—wash the tattoo properly.
How would you define your current tattoo style, and how did you end up focusing on it?
My main style is realism. I was drawn to it immediately because of its complexity and its ability to convey textures, forms, and depth. I aim to make realism not only accurate but also aesthetically beautiful on the body.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
I collect reference images and choose the best option together with the client. I then modify it myself or based on their wishes. On the day of the session, I show the final design, explain possible adjustments, and adapt it to the body before tattooing.
How do you stay creatively inspired?
I constantly challenge myself, try new approaches, and don’t limit myself to one style. Variety keeps my work interesting.
How do you balance client requests with your artistic vision?
I try to fully understand the client’s idea and transform it so it fits the body and works emotionally. When the final design largely depends on me, the result is usually best for both sides.
Are there any tattoo styles you’d like to explore more?
I sometimes work in New School, but at the moment this style requires a lot of time and still lacks recognizable elements in my work. I’m actively improving this direction.
What’s the most underrated tattoo style?
Hyperrealism. It requires deep knowledge of color theory and skin work, yet simplified realism is often more appreciated at festivals due to readability and brightness.
What’s the most overrated tattoo style?
Graphic realism. It looks clean and appealing, but its artistic value is often lower compared to many other styles.
Are there any tattoos you prefer not to do?
Yes. I refuse styles I don’t master, such as ornamental tattoos, and I also refuse low-quality designs that clients don’t allow me to improve.
Do you have sponsors? If yes, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Yes. I work with Druid, a tattoo cosmetics company, and I am sponsored by Kraska Tattoo Ink, a Russian pigment brand that now competes with top international manufacturers.
As a Tattoo Artist, what kind of tattoo ethics is really important to you?
I believe it’s unacceptable to copy another artist’s design exactly. It’s disrespectful to both the artist and the client.
What’s your favorite way to keep learning?
Creating new challenges, competing with top artists, working on complex projects, and constantly pushing myself.
Do you like to teach or mentor upcoming artists?
I sometimes conduct masterclasses for experienced artists. Teaching beginners requires total dedication and passion from both sides.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
“You need to color more densely.” Simple advice, but it helped me greatly.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I work on myself continuously: Tattooing, sports, learning languages, and personal development.
What do you think separates a good tattoo artist from a great one?
Constant growth, discipline, artistic depth, and contribution to the development of tattoo culture.
How do you feel about the growing acceptance of tattoos in society?
It creates more opportunities for artists and helps clients develop better taste, even though the market is temporarily saturated with low-quality artists.
What’s the biggest misconception that customers may have about tattoos?
That good tattoos are quick and easy, without understanding the time, effort, and knowledge involved.
What’s the biggest trend in tattooing you have noticed in the last 5 years?
Simplified designs, reduced color palettes, and less volume—while overall technical quality is improving.
What’s your view on the rise of AI in tattooing?
AI is useful only as an auxiliary tool, mainly for selecting references—not for creating full designs.
What would you change about the tattoo industry?
I want to show people how valuable high-quality tattoos truly are.
Do you work on other projects within the tattoo industry?
Currently, I focus on tattooing and judging at festivals. In the future, I want to contribute through innovation.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
Yes. I draw with graphite and oil pencils, and occasionally paint with oils.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
Boris, Sivak, Sergey Shanko, and Alex Moro.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I’ve been attending conventions since 2013 and have participated in many across Russia and abroad.
How do you usually prepare for a tattoo convention?
I research judges and participants, select a model, develop a project, prepare healed works, merchandise, and bring everything needed—like preparing to tattoo alone in the forest.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
Growth, reflection, motivation, and meeting other artists.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
TattooShow St. Petersburg—strong selection, judging panel, atmosphere, and after-parties.
Have you ever had the opportunity to participate in any tattoo contests?
Yes. I have over 20 awards from conventions in Russia and abroad, for both fresh and healed tattoos.
Do you collect tattoos from artists you meet at conventions?
Yes, but usually not at conventions, as I’m busy working.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve?
They need more educational and engaging activities for the general public.
Was there any event that really boosted your career?
The Marmaris Tattoo Festival 2023 in Turkey. I won three awards and started receiving judging invitations afterward.
Is there any tattoo you are particularly proud of?
Yes—a 10 cm color tattoo of a girl in a bandana, done in three hours at Marmaris. It won first place at five conventions.
What is your greatest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
I believe my greatest achievements are still ahead of me.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Understand that tattooing is not just a profession—it’s a lifestyle that requires total dedication.
What are your goals for the near future?
To participate in major conventions in Europe and Asia and collaborate with organizers to improve tattoo culture.
What legacy do you want to leave?
I haven’t defined it yet. I believe the answer will come with time.
To close this awesome interview, what’s your last message to our readers?
Love what you do, love yourself, and enjoy your life here and now.
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