Mix together the tomato juice and vodka (if using). You can also use bloody mary mix, if preferred. If you want it to be spicy, add some hot sauce to the mix. Taste and adjust to your liking.
Add a few pieces of ice to each glass. Pour in the juice (you can wait until just before serving to do this).
Hang 2 shrimps over the edge of the glass. Garnish with fresh herbs.