Best Tattoo Contest Ever
Some contests are better organized than others; however I have yet to see a contest where everything runs on time. Many contests do not limit the number of entrants in a category, or limit entrants to one category. This can cause long waits and long lines. If you wish to take photos of these contests, plan to bring a telephoto lens. A tripod would not be a bad idea either.
Best Tattoo Contest
Contests are limited to registrants during the larger conventions, while they may be open to everyone at the smaller ones. Categories seem to differ greatly, however some of the more standard ones you can expect include: best black & gray, most unusual, best tribal, best portrait, best overall.
Judging is done either by popular vote, or by a panel of experts (usually composed of veteran artists). Obviously those by popular vote are often judged by the contestant’s looks or personality, and not necessarily just by their tattoo.
Tattoo Judge
If you plan to attend a contest, I suggest you bring a pair of binoculars. The contestants are usually herded around on stage, and it is often difficult to see the tattoos well. This is especially pertinent if the contest is audience judged.
Here is a video of The world famous tattoo contest at the Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West, Florida held during Bike Week.
