~ simple - sharp - intentional ~

Fine Line and Micro-Realism Tattoos in LA & Worldwide

Clean, story-driven tattoos from LA artist Stephen Carballo.

CLICK BELOW for good Tattoo vibes

Meet Stephen Carballo

Stephen is a traveling tattoo artist based in Venice, CA, known for meaningful fine line and micro realism tattoos for those who wander. With 20 years of experience, his work is subtle, detailed, and personal — always done one-on-one in a calm, private setting.

Fine Line Tattoos for Those Who Wander

I create tattoos for people who move through the world with a sense of wonder — travelers, seekers, quiet rebels. Every piece is clean, intentional, and built to last.

Booking is easy. Sessions are 2 hours, the process is breezy, and when we're done you’ll walk out with a tattoo with a touch of destiny—something that feels like it was always meant to be there.

Let's make magic, LA!

Photo of Los Angeles that you artist

RECENT WORK FROM MY PORTFOLIO

Fine Line, Floral, and Micro Realism Tattoos

Horse with flowers tattoo on arm
Cowboy puppy tattoo fine line Micro realism
Micro realism Desert tree
 1997 Final line tattoo in Durango
Detailed Horse with a flower tattoo fine line
Scorpion tattoo Micro realism on the arm
Old truck tattoo on the arm fine line
Smoking skeleton fine line tattoo on arm
Cowboy hat and the desert tattoo fine line
Micro realism seashell tattoo
Fine line tattoo cowboy girl at disco
Cowboy girl dancing tattoo fine line

Clean ~ minimal ~ made to last ✨

Every piece is designed to feel personal and timeless.

CLIENT LOVE

Good People, Good Vibes

Wherever I tattoo — LA, Venice, Denver, Durango, and beyond — the best part is always the people. I’m grateful for the trust and all the good vibes I encounter among people who are drawn to my work.

Like what I do? Let's tat and be friends. 🤙

Wondering what to expect?

Common Questions

Here’s everything you might want to know before booking. From how the design process works to what kind of tattoos I do — no stress, just straight answers.

What kinds of tattoos do you offer? Can I bring an idea, pick from flash, or request something custom?

Most of what I do is fine line, minimalist, or micro-realism — from flash designs I’ve already drawn to fully custom work created together at your appointment. I’ve done everything from tiny symbols to detailed pet portraits and subtle tributes. Whether you bring a reference or pick something that speaks to you, we’ll make it flow naturally.

How do sessions work? Will I see the design before? How long does it take?

Most tattoos start one of two ways — you either pick something from my deep flash library (fine line and micro-realism), or we sketch something up together. Either way, we’ll dial it in live and keep it clean. A typical piece takes anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour, but I book 2-hour blocks so the whole process stays relaxed. Bigger idea? Multiple tattoos? We’ll just add another session!

When are you available? How far ahead should I book?

I’m in Venice most weeks, usually tattooing Tuesday through Saturday — four sessions a day. I travel often (my son’s a professional snowboarder), so I keep the schedule flexible. Right now, it’s pretty easy to get in — but that can change fast, so the sooner you reach out, the better.

What does it cost? Do I need to leave a deposit? How do I book?

Most of my tattoos fall in the $250–$350 range. Once I know what you’re thinking, I’ll send over a quote and deposit link — simple. The form below is the best way to start. Just tell me what you’re into and I’ll take it from there.

Clean, Minimal Tattoos with Meaning

Schedule a one-on-one session in Durango with LA artist Stephen Carballo — minimalist tattoos that feel timeless.

The Los Angeles River ~ Tattoos by Stephen Carballo

Fine Line & Micro-Realism Tattoos for Those Who Wander

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