Koi carp Tattoo Photo #12065

The fish is known for swimming upstream, which makes it a powerful image of progress through hardship. This theme works well in both classic Japanese and modern illustrative styles.

Using only black ink at different dilutions, this style achieves a photographic quality with rich shadows and soft highlights. Black and grey work is versatile enough for portraits, nature scenes, and symbolic imagery.

The ribcage offers a private placement that only shows when the wearer chooses. Its curved surface adds dimension to designs, though the area is known for being one of the more sensitive spots to tattoo.