PARALLAX 2.0

After years of deliberation, I finally decided to move forward with my first large-scale tattoo piece. A friend's recommendation on social media led me to Parallax, and I'm grateful it did. From the moment I submitted the inquiry form, the experience was seamless. I was connected with Derek (Instagram: @ink.derek), and our initial consultation in mid-October immediately put me at ease. He listened carefully, took my concept and reference image, and approached the project as a true collaborator. We scheduled the first session for early January 2026. Going in, I was nervous — my only prior experience had been a two-hour shoulder piece. Derek's communication throughout the process, along with his calm and professional demeanor, quickly settled those nerves. Seven full-day sessions later, I am nearly finished with a complete sleeve, and the anticipation of seeing the final result is matched only by a genuine appreciation for the journey. One detail worth highlighting: I have psoriasis on my elbow, and rather than work around it, Derek incorporated it into the design — framing the affected area with a cloud border that makes it an intentional, beautiful part of the piece. My youngest daughter summed it up best: "Dad, Mr. Derek made your psoriasis look cool." My wife, who was initially skeptical of the entire endeavor, now comments weekly on how much she loves it. I am regularly stopped by strangers who compliment the work. Beyond the artistry, the shop itself is immaculate. Cleanliness is clearly a priority — the staff's hygiene practices are on par with what you'd expect in a clinical setting (high praise, given that my wife is an Infectious Disease physician). The atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive; during my many hours there, I've encountered people from all walks of life, from those stopping in for small pieces to full-day clients like myself. Every tattoo I've observed being completed has been exceptional. Parallax has become something of a sanctuary for me. The artists, staff, and fellow clients have made every visit a pleasure. Whether you're looking for a new piece, a cover-up, or refinements to existing work, I wholeheartedly recommend Parallax and the talented team there.

I had an absolutely lovely time getting my first tattoo with wistaria (@wistaria.ink, now @jiajia.ink— check out her Instagram!!) who was incredibly patient, communicative, reassuring, and overall a gem of a person. The flash I had requested over her booking form had been snapped up by someone else, but she worked with me and created a custom piece that was everything I wanted! She has such stunning artwork— anyone who is interested in beautiful botanicals, ranging from more realistic to abstract, would love her work. Stellar experience— I cannot wait to be back!!

[as good as it gets] just had my second appointment at Parallax with @jermie_jerms. got a huge piece, and was on the table for a couple of days this time. all the artists in the shop are really good folks. shop is super clean. aftercare handouts and descriptions are super clear. they have some dope artist designed merch. and the tables they have a actually mad comfy. jermie is a one in a million. Parallax is dope af. you should feel super confident booking your next piece there 🤘

Thank god I live far from Parallax or I would spend a lot more time there. The studio is amazing, it's spacious, comfortable and, perhaps most critically for a tattoo studio, it's extremely clean. I wanted to call out Louise specifically. She's done an amazing job with my tattoo. She's very talented with colors (as one can see on her IG), and she didn't disappoint with my tattoo. In fact I have another idea for her. I don't know the other artists, more so because they're less my style, but they all are incredibly talented. Highly recommend.

Amazing tattoo studio. This is by far one of my favorite places to get tattoos in the Bay! I found Louise on IG and immediately knew I needed a tattoo from her (and now I have 3 tattoos from her; one flash and two customized). Louise is a dedicated artist and she puts so much time and effort into each piece. She is so friendly and easy to talk to. For both of my custom tattoos, I wanted some small changes, so it was easy to do and work with her on the changes in the studio. I'd highly recommend getting a tattoo or three from her!