April Kraus is a natural light photographer living in southern Arizona with her husband and 3 kids. She prefers a dark and moody image and likes to capture many different things, from couples to births and the occasional documentary work. We are stoked to have her teaching a lesson, “The Connected Couple” within the Academy and we hope you all enjoy the passion and overall rad vibes she brings to the community.

For more inspiration from April:

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Here is April, Unraveled…

What inspired your art?

I’m usually inspired visually. I live in the mountains and they inspire me very much. On days when the skies are really moody and there are clouds over the mountains, I feel drawn to create. Sometimes my inspiration comes from music or from people that I want to photograph. Sometimes I am inspired by a feeling I have, whether it’s love or grief. It’s hard to nail it down, but my inspiration seems to come from everywhere and without warning.

What do you shoot with? Camera body and favorite lens?

I shoot with a Canon 5d Mark III and up until recently have always shot with the Sigma 50mm 1.4 Art lens, but now I’m totally hooked on the Sigma 24 mm 1.4

What other ways do you express your creativity?

I have recently started redecorating my home and have found that I need to learn a lot. It feels creative and it’s fun to have something that I’m completely clueless at, that brings out my creativity. It’s also fun finding hand made art for my home.

How do you de-stress at the end of the day?

Wine. And music. I like to have a glass of wine and conversation with my husband while we listen to music. Yeah, that’s pretty much my favorite.

What kind of music do you listen to while editing?

My go-to editing music is Kings of Leon. I love all kinds of music though. I’ve been on a big 80s/90s kick lately. But KOL for editing makes me feel all the moody feels.

What is your favorite book?

I’m not a big reader, to tell the truth. I don’t sit still long enough for reading anymore. I would rather look at images or bounce around reading blogs or listen to podcasts than read a book. I feel embarrassed to admit that. I think I would have a better vocabulary and “find my words” easier if I read more books.

Name one movie that inspires you.

Sally Mann’s “What Remains”. I could watch it over and over. Beyond that, I really prefer comedies. I love anything with Rob Schneider. I can’t help it!

How do you handle self-doubt or creative slumps?

When I feel like I’m doubting myself, I go for inspirational quotes, I watch speeches from people like Inky Johnson. I read scripture. I reach out to my husband and my “tribe” for support. I try to not let self doubt get me down for too long. It’s a waste of time.

And as far as creative slumps, I embrace them. My life is so busy and to be honest, it’s a nice break sometimes to be not overwhelmed with inspiration. I know there is an ebb and flow to creativity. It’s a relationship, like any other, and if it stands the test of time, it will have ups and downs. I just try to let it be what it is.

What has been the most difficult part of your creative journey?

The most difficult part is remaining true to myself and not getting caught up in “trends” or popularity. This business can be very much a popularity contest sometimes. That’s not my jam.

Who is one of your favorite photographers?

Oh gosh. That’s such a hard question because I love so many! Brittany DeJesus is incredible. Her self portraits are other worldly and she is just a goddess. I also love Rose Walton. She blows me away with her talent.