Hey I have a question. I want to become a tattoo artist. The career amazes me and it is the only job that I would feel like I’ve accomplished something with. My problem is that I loved tattoos so much ever since I was young that I tattooed myself with a safety pin and india ink. I know this is a classic wag of the shame finger in the tattoo industry for the real professionals. I am getting them removed and they are visibly almost gone. My other problem is that I do not have the greatest portfolio built but I know I have a raw talent for art. So guys and girls, my question is, would the kitchen scratch tattoos affect my chances of studying under a real artist at a shop even if they are getting removed. Also, how much does the portfolio matter, when you can show that you have some raw talent that needs a finishing touch? Please let me know guys because I wanna talk to someone at a local shop on friday.

Thanks,
Tim