This series became a raw and instinctive journey through documentary portraiture. As an official sponsor of the 2024 Hawaii Tattoo Expo, the experience marked a personal milestone. As an artist and machine builder, it meant a lot to give back to a culture and community that has inspired so much of my work. With a media pass, I was able to move freely through the event, capturing moments as they unfolded—raw, honest, and unfiltered.

Using a spontaneous, shotgun-style approach, I moved through the crowd, drawn by the wide range of tattoo styles, the energy of the space, and sometimes just the sound of the machines. More than just an event, the expo felt like being welcomed into one Ohana—a community united through art, tradition, and culture.

This work reflects my deep love for tattoo culture, capturing real, unscripted moments within a creative community that thrives on passion, respect, and unity. Documenting the Hawaii Tattoo Expo wasn’t just about photography—it was an opportunity to honor a culture that embraces you like family. Through these portraits, I aim to share the raw beauty of that experience: the artistry, the energy, and the deep respect that defines this global Ohana.