Getting inked at Woody's Tattoo Studio

Jammes working on Seweryn Baj, 26: "The small hand is me, the big hand is my parents, and my country." Three hours' work, £200 Photograph: Martin Godwin

The modern twin-coil electromagnetic tattoo needle was patented in 1891 by Samuel O'Riley. Tattooing is carried out under strict hygienic conditions Photograph: Martin Godwin

A client opts for a tribute to Marylin Monroe. 29% of Britons aged 18-44 now have a tattoo. Photograph: Martin Godwin

Jay working on Manny Gonzalez, 34: "I'm having my youngest's son's name, Oscar. And the two cherubs." A full day's work, £350 Photograph: Martin Godwin

The coloured inks used to decorate the designs. The number of tattoo studios in UK has risen from 300 to 1500 in the past decade Photograph: Martin Godwin

The busy studio in High Wycombe. Two of tattooists at the parlour are fully booked until January Photograph: Martin Godwin

One of the artists consults a design; many can take three to four hours to complete Photograph: Martin Godwin

Lee working on Kelly Burne, 28: "It's a beautiful design, a koi carp." Half a day's work, £200 Photograph: Martin Godwin

A wall of inspiration for those who are undecided. Modern tattooists typically spend up to an hour with a client discussing and refining the design Photograph: Martin Godwin

Woody's work on Stephen Burge, 31: "I wanted something English, but not the bulldog stuff" Photograph: Martin Godwin