Nestled in the vibrant heart of Ottawa, Canada, Fully Automatic Tattoos stands as a beacon of creativity, craftsmanship, and community in the ever-evolving world of body art. Founded in 2015 by tattoo artist and visionary Esau "Otto" Zamora, the shop emerged from a dream to create a space where ink meets individuality, and every client leaves with a story etched into their skin. What began as a modest studio with a single chair and a passion for precision has grown into one of Ottawa’s most beloved tattoo destinations, renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, exceptional artistry, and unwavering commitment to the craft.
The Origin Story
Esau Zamora, known affectionately as "Otto" to his clients and peers, spent over a decade honing his skills in tattoo parlors across Canada and the United States before planting roots in Ottawa. Inspired by the gritty realism of traditional Canadian/American tattoos and the delicate intricacy of fine-line work, Otto envisioned a shop that could bridge styles and generations—a place where sailors, students, and professionals alike could find a design that spoke to them. With a small inheritance and a big dream, he leased a cozy storefront on Dalhousie, hung up a neon sign that buzzed "Fully Automatic Tattoos," and opened the doors to a community eager for something fresh.
The name "Fully Automatic" was a nod to Otto’s philosophy: tattoos should flow effortlessly, like a well-oiled machine, combining technical precision with creative freedom. From day one, the shop embodied this ethos, offering custom designs that were as bold or as subtle as the client desired, executed with the kind of care that turns a fleeting idea into a lifelong masterpiece.
Building a Legacy
In its early years, Fully Automatic Tattoos quickly gained a reputation for its cleanliness, professionalism, and the sheer talent of its artists. Kallysta a skilled piercer with a knack for making clients feel at ease, joined the team, adding body piercing to the shop’s offerings. Together, they cultivated a space that felt less like a business and more like a family—a sentiment echoed by clients who praised the shop’s warm, inclusive vibe. Word spread fast, and soon, Fully Automatic was attracting a diverse clientele, from first-timers nervously sketching their ideas to seasoned collectors seeking their next bold statement.
As demand grew, so did the team. Otto hand-picked artists who shared his dedication to quality and innovation, each bringing their own flair to the studio. There’s Mark "Inkweaver" Lee, whose neo-traditional florals burst with color and life; Esau “Otto” Zamora, a master of black-and-grey realism whose portraits seem to breathe on the skin; and Riley Quinn, a fine-line specialist whose minimalist designs have become a quiet sensation among Ottawa’s art crowd. Together, this crew has transformed Fully Automatic into a creative powerhouse, where every tattoo tells a story and every piercing marks a milestone.
A Hub of Art and Connection
Fully Automatic Tattoos isn’t just a place to get inked—it’s a cultural hub. The shop’s walls, adorned with flash art, framed sketches, and photos of smiling clients, tell the story of a decade of creativity. Regular events like "Tattoo Flash Days" draw crowds eager for discounted designs, while guest artist appearances from across Canada and beyond keep the energy fresh and the inspiration flowing. The team’s commitment to community shines through in their charity work, too—annual fundraisers for local shelters and mental health initiatives have raised thousands, proving that Fully Automatic’s heart is as big as its talent.
The shop’s aesthetic is a blend of vintage charm and modern edge. Exposed brick walls and Edison bulbs nod to Ottawa’s industrial past, while sleek workstations and state-of-the-art sterilization equipment reflect a forward-thinking approach to safety and hygiene. It’s a space where you can sip coffee from a local roaster, flip through a portfolio book, and feel the buzz of creativity in the air—all while knowing you’re in the hands of professionals who take their craft seriously.
The Fully Automatic Experience
What sets Fully Automatic Tattoos apart is its client-first philosophy. Every visit starts with a free consultation, where artists listen intently to your ideas, sketch concepts on the spot, and guide you through the process with patience and expertise. Whether it’s a sprawling back piece that takes months to complete or a tiny symbol inked in a single session, the team pours the same level of care into every project. They’re storytellers with needles, turning memories, dreams, and passions into art that lasts a lifetime.
Piercing clients, too, rave about the experience—Kallysta and her team ensure every ear, nose, or navel piercing is quick, clean, and comfortable, with aftercare advice that’s as thorough as it is practical. The shop’s strict adherence to health standards, paired with a laid-back vibe, makes it a haven for anyone looking to express themselves through body modification.
Looking Ahead
As Fully Automatic Tattoos approaches its tenth anniversary in 2025, the future looks as bright as the ink in its machines. Plans are underway to expand the space, adding more chairs and a dedicated art gallery to showcase the team’s work alongside local artists. Otto dreams of hosting an Ottawa Tattoo Expo, putting the city on the map as a destination for ink enthusiasts worldwide. But no matter how big the shop grows, its core remains unchanged: a place where everyone is welcome, every design is personal, and every tattoo is a work of art.
From its humble beginnings to its status as an Ottawa institution, Fully Automatic Tattoos has etched itself into the fabric of the city—one needle, one client, one story at a time. Step inside, and you’ll see why this isn’t just a tattoo shop—it’s a legacy in the making.
