Let's see...where do I start with this review? Oh...yes, Tyler...he is amazing and the most kind and helpful person ever. Well...maybe not ever but close. I had reached out to see if I can get a tattoo while I was out in CA. Tyler was quick to respond and after a few emails back-and-forth, it didn't look like it was going to work. After some more thought though about my recent experiences, I decided that I wanted this tattoo to be done while on this trip. So I reached back out and Tyler was able to figure out a day/time to fit me in with Shaun Topper. A bit naive in the tattoo world, I found out about Shaun through another artist and after checking out his work, I knew that I wanted him to do this specific tattoo for me. On the day of, I got a call asking if I can move my appointment an hour early. It was perfect because I had made plans for after and didn't know if I'd have enough time to make it. Anyways, the shop is clean and very cute. Ha...never thought I'd describe a tattoo shop as cute, but it is. The energy of the shop also feels good.Shaun showed me what he drew up and we made some slight adjustments then got started. Now...I have other tattoos, but it has been awhile and I always forget how painful they are for some reason! I suppose the thigh is a more sensitive area. You'll see on some of my other reviews about first time experiences with artists and experiences...but I'll say it here too. It's always a bit awkward because you're trying to get a feel for them, right? To see if they'll be a good fit. Well, I can say that I will definitely go back to Shaun to add more to and finish up a full leg sleeve. Shaun was very nice and fun to talk to. While very minimal and brief, all the other artists were fun to talk to as well...though I didn't get to say much. They definitely tried to engage me in some very entertaining discussions, but I couldn't really concentrate from all the pain I was in! lol It was greatly appreciated though.Shaun worked pretty fast and there were parts of our conversations that really resonated with me. He even made an artistic decision on the tattoo, which seemed to symbolize a part of what I am going through...ANYWAYS...it was all a little weird, but good. Well, like I said he was fast and so I asked him if he had time to do another very small tattoo impromptu. He was kind enough to say yes. I love both of them and look forward to getting more from him. Maybe next year or sometime at the end of this year. Also, I am not very big on social media (though I see the contradiction in me saying that as a Yelp Elite lol) but I follow both him and the shop on IG and they're very fun. It definitely makes me laugh, which is always good :) Read Less

Great place.  1st time there and what a great experience.   Ive been around so I know the difference ... Tyler answered the phone and was more than infinitive and invited me to the ship same day. When I got there again Tyler remembered our convo and got me set up with Beau.  (Thanks Tyler )  ....Beau is a true pro.. Also great guy with lots of experience from coast to coast and internationally.. My tattoo came out freakin awesome...stoked THANK YOU BEAU..  Great experience overall.. See ya soon. ... Cheers .. Prost.... Read Less

I cannot recommend Captured Tattoo highly enough. My friend and I had the most positive experience working with them.We both made an appointment with Dan, the owner, who is seriously one of the best tattoo artists in the business. The entire process was easy for us -- Dan and Tyler were very warm, welcoming, accommodating, and patient with us as we zeroed in on the design we wanted.As expected, Dan delivered in spades and we're both thrilled with the tattoos we got. And after seeing the other artists in action at Captured Tattoo, I have to say I'd trust every one of them to do great work. The whole shop is stacked.(On top of all of this, I first came in contact with Dan when he and his shop donated to a nonprofit fundraiser I was working on. So not only does he and his staff do a phenomenal job, you're also supporting genuinely generous and kindhearted people when you choose them.) Read Less

The best tattoo experience I've had. Been following Dan for awhile and wanted to get a piece done at his shop while I was in town. From the appointment inquiry to the time I left the shop, I couldn't have been happier with the ease and efficiency of hospitality (thank you, Tyler). I thought I knew what I had wanted exactly, but Shaun threw out a couple of suggestions from the beginning and along the way on what he thought would work. Which is why I went along with it all and happy I did! To say his work is amazing would be an understatement and his line work is incomparable to anything I've seen before. The shop is very welcoming as seen from the decor and the ambiance given off by everyone there and of course, the great music selection playing.Thank you everyone at Captured Tattoo! Read Less

I started coming to captured tattoo when my artist Chris moved from Vegas to California. I was already aware of the infamous Dan Smith and the rest of the gang at captured. You will not be disappointed with any of the artists here. The shop is super clean and everyone is extremely friendly. I have spent hours at this shop and I am always blown away by the work I get on my body every time I leave. Do yourself a favor and set up an appointment if you are looking for great quality work. Read Less

This is where you go when you want a tattoo that you will love and everyone else will admire. Each artist in here is amazing and you can't go wrong with any of them. I have a beautiful piece by Beaux Brady who is a super nice and super talented guy.  Just make an appointment beforehand, or give a call because with this much heat out of that shop they're usually all booked up. Also if you like Morrissey, this shop has some really cool stuff up on the walls. Read Less

I worked with Beau and he did an absolutely amazing job! I wanted to cover up a birth mark on my leg but all I had was just a few scattered ideas. Beau took those ideas and created something better than I could of possibly imagined. I am very happy with my tattoo and overall experience with everyone at Captured Tattoo. I would recommend and have recommended them to anyone looking for a great tattoo artist. Read Less

Wow. First off, their customer service is unmatched. I guess I was expecting such a well known shop to take their time writing back to me but that's just not the case at all. I had many questions and Tyler was there every step of the way answering every question I had for him and in a very timely manner. Even afterwards, I called asking about aftercare instructions and was so informative and really took his time to help me out. Everyone here was incredibly polite and warm. They made it all so very easy. Dan Smith is such an amazing guy. So unbelievably talented. I gave him a simple idea and he ran with it and gave me the most beautiful tattoo I've ever seen. I feel so incredibly lucky to have this art on me forever. Not to mention that meeting him was nothing less than I thought it would be. He's so warm and more than willing to listen to every little thing I had to say and ask him about. He's very genuine and has a calming way about him. I can't thank him enough for just being who he is. I won't ever go anywhere else for a tattoo and I don't know how anyone could. Thank you all so much! Read Less

Shaun Topper is a legend!  I'm in love with my Bastet tattoo and I've received so many complements!  Tyler, the receptionist was awesome as well!If you're sick and tired of mediocre tattoos and want something fascinating, go see Shaun. Read Less

I was referred to Captured Tattoo by a colleague, who has a lot of ink on his skin! I have nothing but praise for the place and for Beau, the artist who put the lovely rose on my wrist. Beautiful, clean place, with friendly and professional staff. Tyler at the reception is also very nice and accommodating. This was my very first tattoo, and I am glad I got it done at Captured Tattoo! Read Less

I was looking to get my first ever tattoo, I was in the area and figured I'd stop by and get some information and possibly meet with an artist. I was greeted by Tyler at the front desk immediately. He answered the questions I had and introduced me to Beau. Due to the professionalism, cleanliness, and very impressive artwork in the shop, I knew this is where I wanted to be. Beau is so cool, he fit me in his schedule due to me moving out of state in a matter of days. I made an appointment and left a deposit moments after we had met. Fast forward to my appointment, I walk into the shop and Beau is ready with an AWESOME design he created. I was pumped. Once we determined the right size, he very quickly set up his station and got to work. A few hours later and we're finished. Such a flawless and amazing tattoo, I'm so pumped I got it at captured tattoo. These guys are awesome, thanks! Read Less

I love this place and get consistently good tattoos from artist Shaun Topper. He is very professional and his work is amazing. The space is immaculately clean, as are all the tools. Dan, the owner, is always very nice and helpful. If you are in the area make an appointment with Shaun, Dan, or any of their artists.  You won't regret it! Read Less

Beau Brady is so talented and easy on the eyes . He has tattooed my sister and I and we are so I love with our custom art . The shop is clean and the color scheme is perfect . Mint green heaven . The shop help is so polite and has the best dance moves . All the guys are total babes that work there so it totally takes all the pain away ! Go see Beau Brady you will be  so stoked! Read Less

So, I will just start by saying that this place is awesome. I have 6 total tattoos and 3 were done in this studio by Dan Smith. I have never been happier and don't think that I will ever wear a long sleeve shirt again. I just love looking at them! I recommend this studio to anyone that brings up or mentions getting a tattoo. I have only experienced Dan but every person in this studio are so friendly and fun. They make, what can be at times a little painful, a wonderful and pleasant experience. Read Less

5 stars for the 5 star experience that you will get if you decide to spend some time at Captured Tattoo!We went in to Captured Tattoo back in December with a concept for Beau, one of the most amazing tattoo artists ever.  He was able to take a complicated concept (the blending of 3 heritages) and make it into the most gorgeous art.The process went like this: **We paid $100 as a deposit for a design and described what we wanted via email**We came into the cool, clean shop (more on this later) and Beau showed us a sketch on paper.  We had some notes and he went in the back, adjusted and then came back**Then the first session was on.  Beau used the sketch as a template for my husband's arm and laid down the main structure in about 3 hours.  It looked awesome and before he sent us on our way he was careful to advise about cleaning & care.**Subsequent sessions followed every couple weeks to add shading and texture.**And now it's all done and is the most amazing, intricate, meaningful piece of body art I have ever seenEveryone at the shop is incredibly nice and the store front itself, nestled in the cutest area of old town Tustin is awesome.  There is a little bench where I sat while my husband's work was being done on a table in the center of the room and they have a water station.We will be back because the next step is for me to get a smaller version of the inverse to my husband's tattoo... Read Less

Fantastic experience with Shaun and the team at Captured from beginning to end. Found Shaun on Instagram a few years and have been following his work ever since. Decided it was time to get a piece done and Skully helped me set up a time to come talk ideas with Shaun. He was very friendly and transparent telling me what was realistic and what wouldn't - exactly what you would want from a professional. Booked the appointment and a few weeks later I was back in. He executed our idea to a perfection and I couldn't be any happier. The shop is meticulously clean and organized, everyone is professional but comfortable, and I am looking forward to more work by Shaun and the Captured team. Read Less

Shaun has done both of my tattoos. The first one was a fixer upper and he did a beautiful job! He fixed all the lines and made them straight. He brightened up my ugly black tattoo and made it into something new!My second tattoo was an anchor and he came up with an awesome original design which turned out great! He has the best line work and color theory! All of the artists are very polite and truly care about your needs! I've never felt so comfortable! I won't go anywhere else. Shaun is the best!!! Amazing detail and original designs! Read Less

Super nice and clean shop! Tiffany blue and black subway tile rocks! I had an appt with Shawn Topper and he knocked it out of the park! I enjoyed chatting with Dan Smith also! Music selection was outstanding! Can't wait to go back and finish my sleeve! Much respect for this shop! Read Less

I have been tattooed by Dan Smith at Captured Tattoo twice and it has always been an extremely positive experience! It's a comfortable, friendly, professional environment and I always leave with a smile on my face. Both tattoos I have gotten from Dan have turned out above and beyond what I ever could've imagined on my own. He is attentive to details and always makes sure I'm comfortable during the process. I can always count on Captured Tattoo for a great experience and the best quality work. The shop is clean, tastefully decorated, and pleasant (and their awesome music playlist is a nice bonus). I live in Florida so I always look forward to my next trip to California so I can book an appointment at Captured! Read Less

Dan Smith and Captured Tattoo = CLASS ACT!  If you are reading this, it means you are interested in getting some work done at Captured Tattoo (and, by Dan Smith himself).   I cannot find the words to describe how happy I am with my father's portrait created by Dan Smith.  My father passed away on May 7, 2016 and I NEEDED a portrait of him on my inner forearm just above my wrist tattoo.  (Dan tattooed me in 2011 when he was at High Voltage Tattoo in LA.  It was the word "Fearless" with my dad's initials - simple and elegant.)  Overall, my experience was perfect - from booking the tattoo through completion, I could not have scripted a better experience.  When I booked my appointment, I made it clear to Alison (Shop Manager, who is awesome) that I would be purchasing a plane ticket and flying to LA from Cincinnati.  She was sensitive to my situation and booked my appointment for 4 months out (YES - 4 months).  My appointment was on Saturday September 17 at noon.  About 3.5 weeks before my appointment,  I received an email that Dan had to travel on the 17th.  (I understand things come up, especially when you are Dan Smith, so I was not upset.)  I provided Alison with my flight information on the 16th and she worked with Dan to clear some time on Friday afternoon.    I arrived a little before 3:00 PM and was immediately greeted by Shaun Topper.  He let Alison and Dan know that I was there.  Alison helped me complete the necessary paperwork and Dan came out to talk about the design.  Dan had done his homework before I arrived because he presented me with ideas and showed me the photograph that he thought exhibited my dad's personality best.   Dan started working on my tattoo around to 4:00 PM and finished at approximately 6:45 PM.  During that time, we took a few small breaks.  Dan was really, really nice and personable.  He asked questions and took a genuine interest me and why I was there.  I'm sure we could have talked the entire time; but, I was okay just listening to the buzz of the needle and letting him concentrate on my tattoo.   (I've read some other reviews where people have 'complained' that their tattoo artist did not talk to them.  I don't know about you, but my preference is for the artist to do what they do best - TATTOO - not listen to my personal woes.)After we finished, Dan explained how I should take care of my tattoo for the next two weeks.  He covered it with Tegaderm, which is a latex-free, sterile, film dressing.  Dan stated that over the next three days the area would 'weep' a bit and then dry out.  When I took the dressing off (3 days later), the area was almost completely healed and exactly as Dan described.  I washed it with warm water and anti-bacterial soap, and used a fragrance-free lotion (Aquaphor and Hustle Butter) for the next 7 days.  My tattoo healed perfectly!  Dan is a BRILLIANT artist.  My tattoo is FLAWLESS and showcases my dad's personality better than I could have imagined.  Because of Dan's expertise and knowing how to provide an exceptional tattoo experience, I will NEVER go to another shop.  I will spend the money to fly to CA and have Dan tattoo me again.  He is a true professional!! Read Less

I was Dans and his sistets nanny when he was 3 - 6 years old in Middlesbrough, England ! He was a great kid and I.m so pleased he's done so well for himself. Hoping to visit the shop one day , my son was in california recently but couldn't find the shop to say hello ! Hi to Dan if you read this was lovely seeing you in the Boro a few years ago !!! Read Less

I had the pleasure of getting my first tattoo at Captured. Randomly stumbled on Griffen Gurzi's Instagram and was instantly sure I found my artist.The shop has a great vibe and attitude. Tucked into the intimate suburbs of Tustin, you would never know it was even there, and that's kind of the fun. I worked with Griffen through a few emails, collaborating my thoughts to him and he just got it. He went above and beyond on my tattoo and I couldn't be happier!The rest of the staff was super sweet. Dan made sure to introduce himself and check on our progress as much as he could, making sure I was comfortable and doing okay. A shop like this really gives you an appreciation and respect for the art which is great cause too many of my friends have those hipster triangles. Rad experience, will be getting more work done here in the future. Read Less

The minute I walked in to this shop I knew I had picked the right spot for my 2nd tattoo. I was referred to this place by a friend (thank you). Allison was super nice and informative. She had answers for all my concerns. I had already communicated with her via email when I set up my appt and paid my deposit. Griffen my artist took time out his schedule to speak with me when I came in to check out the shop a couple a days prior to my appt.The day of my appt things went super well, I had emailed Griffen a few pics of what I wanted. He walked out with a drawing and it was perfect! The size was perfect, I couldn't picture it in color but trusted he would do his magic and HE DID! I am so in love with my butterfly! He surpassed my expectations! I'm not gonna lie it hurt like hell, but it was so worth the pain! I will most definitely return to get one more piece by Griffen. This place rocks!!! They also play the best music, makes the whole experience so much more enjoyable. Read Less

I have had the pleasure/honor of being tattooed at Captured Tattoo by Dan Smith twice.  Both experiences were amazingly positive.  The shop is gorgeous with amazing art/flash covering the walls.  Dan is a magnificent artist with amazing energy and talent.  He goes above and beyond to make his clients feel comfortable plus he is an interesting guy to chat with.  For both tattoos, I sent him ideas of what I wanted and he took those basic concepts created beautiful original pieces incorporating exactly what I was looking for with his artist twist. Do I recommend Dan and Captured Tattoo?  Heck yes!!!  I'm willing to drive 4 hours just to get tattooed by Dan if that tells you anything. Read Less

I came from Italy and I've been at Capturedtattoo in September 2013 for my honeymoon. The shop is very nice, even the smallest details, the phone box is very beautiful,, excellent background music that doesn't disturb the conversation with the staff. The staff are helpful, friendly and very professional and at the end of visit, with a new tattoo on my body, they made us a surprise, they gave us a t-shirt of the shop like a gift of the journey. I'll return on day. Read Less