An Interview With Photographer Nina Kraft

My guest today on the blog is Los Angeles based photographer, Nina Kraft, who began her career in Hollywood as a highly regarded make-up artist. The images and storytelling of cinema were the inspiration that sparked her career transformation into a sought-after photographer. Nina worked on major studio motion pictures, as well as on magazine covers and commercials, working with international icons such as Herb Ritts, Annie Leibovitz and countless others. Nina is now known for her collaborative working style in creating contemporary and unique looks in fashion, advertising and portraiture. Her style is influenced by her love of indigenous people and animals and her activism. Nina’s work in fashion, commercial, portraits and lifestyle photography is raw, earthy, elegant, real and unique to every client. I’ve followed Nina’s career for a few years, so it was great to catch up with Nina recently …hi Nina!

Hi, I’m Nina Kraft, photographer.

After beginning your career in Hollywood as a highly regarded make up artist, what inspired you to change your career to become a highly regarded photographer instead?

I worked in films, for a long time, travelled the world and enjoyed my career. After having 2 boys, locations for 6 months at a time was not an option. I always loved photography/cinematography and the art of lighting. It was the natural choice for me to move into photography after my kids. I had worked very closely with the cinematographer as a makeup artist and learned a lot from those wonderful collaborations.

I am, and have been for a few years, a big fan of your photography – I particularly love your black & white and street life observations – although your fashion work is just as stunning too. What is your favourite style of photography?

I shoot fashion, advertising and portraits, which I enjoy very much.

Have you got a favourite place where you enjoy taking photos? What makes this place so special?

My long term dream is to go to Africa and spend a good year there telling the story of the all female anti poaching rangers like the Akashinga and other groups that have put their lives on the line to save animals from poachers. Many of these brave women were help captive in wars and sexually assaulted. I write as well as shoot, I want to tell their stories and looking forward to making my dream project.

Growing up, what were your career aspirations?

Growing up all I wanted to do was save animals but I ended up in Hollywood were I met many wonderful creative people, had a great career and travelled the world.

If I visited you in Los Angeles & we go on a “photo tour”, what places would you recommend us photographing?

If you are touring Los Angeles, I would recommend photographing the coast north of Malibu. There, you will find beautiful coast lines combined with majestic cliffs. Also Joshua tree in the desert.

Boots Or Shoes?

Currently my life style is about comfort. I love wearing uggs when possible and also my favorite boots are still Rag and Bone.