Photography That Tells Your Story
A People-Centered Photography Practice
Captured by Kraus is me, Katarina Kraus, a first year Photography student at the University of Gloucestershire, building something real while I figure out who I want to be as a photographer.
I work in editorial and portrait photography, but what that actually means is I care about people, stories, and giving something back. I don’t just take photos and disappear. Every shoot is a collaboration built on respect, curiosity, and fair exchange. You give me your time and your story, I give you professional images you can actually use, whether that’s for your business, your portfolio, or just because you deserve good photos of yourself.
Right now, I’m working on Made By Hand: An Insight Into The Hidden Paths Across Our Palms, a project photographing the hands and craft of people across Cheltenham and Gloucester. It’s about recognising work that goes unnoticed, saying thank you, and integrating myself into this community instead of just existing in a student bubble.
I’ve photographed weddings, christenings, parties, church ceremonies, portraits, pets, kids, products, and all sorts. But what I’m really passionate about are personal projects that mean something, projects that recognise people and work that usually go unseen.
I’m also learning alternative processes, darkroom work, and campaign based documentary photography. I’m pushing myself because I want to grow, and that energy shows up in the work. You’re not getting a cookie cutter photographer. You’re getting someone who genuinely cares about what we’re making together.
Captured by Kraus is named after my parents, who used to run Casa Kraus back in Romania, a stunning restaurant that catered weddings, parliament events, all kinds of incredible things. They moved us to the UK so I could have better opportunities. Photography is my way of saying thank you, and my way of making a change in the world, whether that’s small or massive.
This is what I want to be my legacy. This website is where I’m putting it all together.
Committed to Genuine Connections
I want to make work that actually matters. Photography that recognises people, tells honest stories, and gives something back to the communities I’m part of. I’m not here to extract value from people and disappear. Every shoot is built on respect, curiosity, and fair exchange. You give me your time and your story, I give you something valuable in return, always.
Guided by Integrity and Empathy
I believe work goes unnoticed. I believe people deserve to be seen and recognised for what they do, whether that’s kneading bread at 5am, fixing engines, cutting hair, or raising kids. I believe photography should create connection, not just content. And I believe in showing up with integrity, listening properly, and making sure you feel comfortable and in control of how you’re represented.
Your Questions Answered
What type of photography do you offer?
I work in editorial and portrait photography, but what that actually means is I photograph people, stories, and work that matters. Whether that’s documenting hands and craft for my Made By Hand project, shooting portraits for your business or family, covering events like weddings and christenings, or collaborating on creative projects that push boundaries. I focus on what’s real, not what’s performed. No awkward posing, no fake moments, just honest images that feel like you.
Where are you based?
I’m based in Gloucester and work across Cheltenham and Gloucestershire. I’m happy to travel to your workplace, your home, or anywhere that makes sense for your shoot. If your story takes me somewhere else, I’m up for it. Location matters, and I want to photograph you where you actually are, not in some generic studio that has nothing to do with your life.
How do you make clients comfortable?
I show up, I listen, and I don’t rush you. I’m not here to bark instructions or make you perform. I create space for you to be yourself, whether that’s chatting while we shoot, working in silence, or taking breaks when you need them. You’re in control of how you’re represented. If you don’t want your face shown, we don’t show it. If you’re uncomfortable with a question, don’t answer it. I treat your time and your story with respect, and that makes all the difference.
Let’s Create Timeless Memories Together!
Reach out today and start your journey with capturedbykraus.