Meet Dmitry Paramonov who has built his reputation as one of the leading artists in color realism tattooing, known for his technical, refined color transitions, and lifelike compositions. With more than a decade of experience, he approaches each piece as a high-definition study in tone, texture, and form.
In this interview, Dmitry discusses the evolution of color realism, the discipline required to maintain precision at scale, and how he integrates fine art principles into his tattoo work. From his views on ethics and competition to his process of translating a client’s idea into a lasting visual statement, this conversation highlights the method and mindset of a modern realism specialist.
How would you like to introduce yourself?
Hi, my name is Dmitry Paramonov, I’m a tattoo artist specializing in color realism, and for more than ten years I’ve been creating works that stay with people for life.
Where can your customers find you?
My clients can find me in Los Angeles, where I work in a studio, and occasionally in other cities during guest spots.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in the USA these days?
In the US, the tattoo scene is incredibly developed. In Los Angeles especially, you can really feel how much tattoo culture has become a part of everyday life. Here, people see tattoos not as rebellion but as a form of self-expression and art.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
My fascination with tattoos started in childhood: I was always drawing, interested in painting, and when I first saw realistic tattoos, I realized this was the art form I wanted to master.
At what point in your life did you decide to become a professional tattoo artist?
I decided to become a professional tattoo artist about ten years ago. There came a moment when I had to choose a direction in life, and I understood I wanted to combine art with craft.
How did your family react when you started a career in tattooing?
My family reacted cautiously at first. They worried, since tattooing wasn’t considered a “traditional” career. But over time, when they saw me growing, succeeding, and being happy with what I do, they became fully supportive.
Did you go through an apprenticeship? How was that experience?
Yes, I went through an apprenticeship. It was a challenging period filled with practice, mistakes, and self-improvement. But it gave me the foundation that’s essential for any growth.
What did your first tattoo look like?
My first tattoo was very simple a small symbol I made for a friend. Honestly, far from perfect, but that’s how every artist’s journey begins.
Do you usually do guest spots? If yes, what’s your experience in doing them?
Yes, I enjoy guest spots. They give me the chance to exchange experiences, meet new people, and explore different cultures. Recently, for example, I worked in Colorado, and it was a valuable experience.
As a Tattoo Artist, what does your daily working routine look like?
My workday usually starts with preparation: Sketches, client communication, setting up equipment. Then comes the main part the tattoo session itself, which can take from a few hours to a full day.
What is one surprising aspect of being a tattoo artist?
One surprising aspect of the profession is how much psychology is involved. We’re not just making drawings; we listen to clients’ stories and sometimes become witnesses to important moments in their lives.
How do you determine the price of a tattoo?
The price of a tattoo depends on the complexity, size, details, and time involved. For me, it’s important that clients understand: they’re not only paying for the session, but also for years of practice and the quality that will last a lifetime.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The most rewarding part of my work is seeing a client’s emotions when they look at their finished tattoo for the first time. Those moments are priceless.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
In 2025, one of the most challenging aspects of the profession is the high level of competition and the constant need to grow. Clients see thousands of works on Instagram and expect something unique. It’s motivating, but also requires a lot of effort.
What tools and machines do you prefer to use?
In my work, I prefer to use reliable, high-quality machines and pigments. Specific brands aren’t as important to me what matters is precision and consistency.
What’s your number one aftercare advice for clients?
My number one aftercare advice is to treat a tattoo like a living painting on your skin: don’t touch it unnecessarily, avoid sun exposure in the first weeks, keep it clean, and follow your artist’s recommendations. Proper aftercare makes up 50% of how the tattoo will look years from now.
How would you define your current tattoo style, and how did you end up focusing on it?
My style is color realism. I naturally gravitated toward it because I’ve always loved painting, details, and the play of colors. For me, realism in tattooing is the chance to bring a painting to life on skin.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
The process always starts with communication with the client. I try to understand their idea, emotions, and story, and then adapt that into a design. I select a color palette, prepare references, and only after that do we finalize the concept together.
How do you stay creatively inspired?
I draw inspiration from art, nature, movies, and photography. Traveling helps a lot too: new cities and people always bring a fresh perspective.
How do you balance client requests with your artistic vision?
Balancing client requests with my vision comes through dialogue. I listen to what they want but always add my artistic interpretation. It’s a collaboration where both of us take part in creation.
Are there any tattoo styles you’d like to explore more?
I’d like to dive deeper into Neo-traditional and Japanese tattoo styles. Both have strong aesthetics and philosophy, and I think they can inspire new ideas even within realism.
What’s the most underrated tattoo style?
The most underrated style, in my opinion, is blackwork. Many people see it as something simple, but in the hands of a skilled artist, it can be very expressive.
What’s the most overrated tattoo style?
The most overrated style is probably minimalism. It looks nice, but often it’s too simple and tends to lose its impact quickly.
Are there any tattoos you prefer not to do?
I prefer not to do tattoos with a negative message or anything that goes against my values. It’s important to me that my work carries energy, not destruction.
Do you have sponsors? If yes, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
I collaborate with certain equipment and pigment brands. What I value is that they support not just artists but the industry’s growth as a whole. Brands such as Bishop and Radiant.
As a Tattoo Artist, what kind of tattoo ethics is really important to you?
For me, tattoo ethics mean respect for the client, sterility, honesty, and never copying other artists’ work. Everything else is secondary.
Do you like to teach or mentor upcoming artists?
Yes, I like sharing my knowledge with beginners. I remember how tough it was in the beginning, and I think it’s important to pass knowledge forward.
Being a successful tattoo artist requires many different skills. What’s your favorite way to keep learning?
I enjoy learning through practice and observation. I attend seminars, conventions, and also study art beyond tattooing painting, graphics, sculpture. All of it helps me grow.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received to improve your tattooing technique?
The best advice I ever received was: “Don’t rush. Work slowly but with quality.” Tattooing isn’t a race; it’s all about attention to detail.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
To stay sharp, I constantly train my eye and hand: I draw, try new techniques, and experiment.
What do you think separates a good tattoo artist from a great one?
What separates a good artist from a great one is this: Good artists master technique, great ones also feel their clients and create something truly unique.
How do you feel about the growing acceptance of tattoos in society?
I’m happy that tattoos have become part of everyday life. People are no longer afraid of judgment and see tattoos as art.
What’s the biggest misconception that customers may have about tattoos?
The biggest misconception clients have is that tattoos should look perfect right after the session. In reality, they reveal their true look only after healing.
What’s the biggest trend in tattooing you have noticed in the last 5 years?
Over the past five years, I’ve noticed a big trend toward bold colors and large-scale projects covering whole body parts. People are no longer afraid of big compositions.
What’s your view on the rise of AI in tattooing?
As for AI, I see it as a useful tool for idea generation, but art will always remain in human hands. A machine can’t replace emotion.
What would you change about the tattoo industry?
If I could change something in the industry, I’d put more focus on respecting artists’ work and cut down on “quick” studios where quality suffers.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
I also enjoy painting and drawing. For me, it’s a natural extension of tattooing.
Do you work on other projects within the tattoo industry?
Outside of the studio, I take part in collaborations, sometimes consult for brands, and join in organizing events.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
In the tattoo community, I admire artists who dare to experiment yet stay true to themselves.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
Conventions are always a special atmosphere for me: A concentration of art and energy.
How do you usually prepare for a tattoo convention?
I prepare seriously: plan the design in advance, talk with clients, and set up my equipment.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
My main reason to attend is inspiration and exchange of experience. And of course, the chance to showcase my work to a wide audience.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
My favorite convention is in Los Angeles. It’s my home city, and the best artists from all over the world gather here.
Have you ever had the opportunity to participate in any tattoo contests? You are welcome to specify your awards.
Yes, I’ve participated in contests and won awards. They always motivate me to move forward.
Do you collect tattoos from artists you meet at conventions?
I enjoy collecting tattoos from artists I admire. It’s a reminder that we can also be clients.
How do you think there are ways tattoo conventions could improve for both artists and the public?
Conventions could be improved by adding more educational formats for both the public and artists.
Was there any event in particular that really boosted your career?
One key event that boosted my career was winning my first contest. It gave me both confidence and recognition.
Is there any tattoo that you have created in your career that you are particularly proud of?
There are several works I’m especially proud of large realism projects where I managed to capture living emotions.
What is your greatest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
My greatest accomplishment is the trust of my clients. When someone is ready to give me their skin for art, that’s the highest reward.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
My advice to beginners: learn to draw, work on yourself, and don’t expect quick results. In this profession, patience is everything.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
In the near future, I want to travel more, take part in international projects, and create large-scale tattoos.
What legacy do you want to leave as a tattoo artist?
My goal as an artist is to leave behind not just beautiful tattoos, but a style that will inspire future artists.
To close this awesome interview, what’s your last message to our readers?
Appreciate art, choose your tattoo artist wisely, and remember that a tattoo is part of your story.
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