(Image: Megan Robson)
A tattoo artist who was once told colour blindness could stand in the way of her career has opened her first studio in Bradford.
Megan Robson, owner of House of Kaeru, has recently opened the doors to her new tattoo parlour on Wibsey high street, after spending three years building her business from a rented room.
The move marks a major milestone for Ms Robson, who said owning her own studio has been a dream since she was young.
She said: "I've wanted to do it since I was younger, the funny thing is I'm actually colour blind.
"I didn't really think I'd be able to be a tattoo artist because of it and I struggled getting into the industry."
House of Kaeru has opened on High Street, Wibsey. (Image: Megan Robson)
A dream years in the making
Before opening House of Kaeru, Ms Robson worked from a room in a fitness studio in Heckmondwike, where she built up a strong client base.
Although the business was doing well, she felt the time had come to take the next step and create a space of her own.
"I've always worked on my own anyway," she said.
"I just needed more space and finding this place gave me that opportunity. "
Ms Robson added: "Having a shop front is definitely a step forward in my career and it's helping get my name out there."
From beauty salon to tattoo studio
Transforming the building into a tattoo studio proved a challenge.
When Ms Robson collected the keys, the premises were previously operating as a beauty salon and required significant renovation work.
Megan Robson inside her new Wibsey tattoo studio. (Image: Megan Robson)
Creating a welcoming space
While tattoos are the focus of the business, Ms Robson wants the studio to offer more than just appointments.
She hopes House of Kaeru will become a welcoming and relaxed environment, particularly for people who may feel nervous about getting tattooed.
"A lot of people get anxious before getting a tattoo," she said.
"I've been to places before where I've sat there for hours and not spoken because it felt uncomfortable. I want people to come here, relax, have a chat and enjoy the experience."
Building on success
Although she mainly specialises in blackwork tattoos, Ms Robson's colour blindness has not stopped her from building a successful career.
Over the past three years, she has developed a loyal customer base and said most of her clients are supportive.
When asked whether her colour blindness had affected her career, she said: "People aren't really bothered...I'm busy and I've got a really strong client base. I didn't think I'd get to this point but it's paid off."