Mark Kraus (pipco) Interview
Keywords: nature, photography, pipco, ohio
It is always a pleasure to view Mark Kraus’s posts on Nikonians with the great close shots of wildlife. Of his photography Mark shares,
“…I am a Nature Photographer living in Cincinnati, Ohio. My passion is photographing wildlife indigenous to the Southern Ohio area. I have always loved doing things outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. Now I bring many of those skills to my photography. I like to show views of wildlife many have not seen before. A good portion of my photos are taken at local parks around the greater Cincinnati area.
I have been photographing on and off for about 30 years. About 10 years ago I made photography a serious hobby, almost an addiction. Changed totally to digital six years ago and never looked back.
I am also a member of two local photography clubs: Photography Club Of Greater Cincinnati (PCGC) and the old Cincinnati Color Side Club & Tri-State Photographic Society. Clubs helped me develop my skills as a photographer. Being a member of a club is a great way to learn and see what works for other photographers and to get new ideas. And of course the Nikonians Community is a great resource.”
Stating that he has always loved Macro Photography Mark explains, “When I was starting out years ago I couldn’t get enough of John Shaw books. I think his book Close-ups in Nature is what started my addiction. I also like photographing any type of wildlife especially birds and small animals. If it gets me outdoors or in the woods I will find something to photograph. And even if I don’t get a shot, it will still be a great day.”
Mark doesn’t quite recall how he found Nikonians stating that it was most likely in the spring of 2006 when he was looking for information on buying his first digital SLR -a Nikon D200. Of Nikonians he states, “I like the real user feedback on equipment and all the willingness of folks to help with questions. I have bought and sold equipment on Nikonians. Everyone, I have dealt with in the Equipment for Sale forum has been great to deal with.”
He relates further, “I am always checking the Equipment for Sale forums. Whenever I am looking for a new piece of photo equipment to add to my bag, I check the forums for reviews. I enjoy looking and posting images on the monthly Wildlife and Macro forums. There are a lot of great images and photographers in those forums.” I think we can all relate to having been inspired by the work of others.
Originally written on November 1, 2016
Last updated on November 29, 2017
More articles that might interest you
G
10 comments
Mark Kraus (pipco) on November 14, 2016
I want to thank Marsha for the interview and work she puts into this project and all Nikonians for the nice comments. There are so many good photographers on this site willing to help others. Thanks Mark Kraus
Aart Louw (AartPapaya) on November 7, 2016
What I admired most in this excellent series is the great variety of shots. 4 of these shots I have seen before, because they grew on me, never to be forgotten. Marsha, thank you for bringing this to us.
Alan Dooley (ajdooley) on November 6, 2016
In case nobody else has noticed, Mark has not employed the latest, state of the art cameras or most expensive lenses to capture these inspiring images. Rather, he has worked hard to see and record the best possible photos. The newest and highest priced gear doesn't ensure bringing home the best photos. It's the eye behind the viewfinder and hard-earned skill that does that. Great work Mark -- and nice write-up Marcia!
Jim Palmer (jim palmer) on November 5, 2016
Hello all...just found Nikonians have an account..and to be greeted by Mark Krause's photos is one of the reasons I am sooo glad I found the site. Awesome exposures!!!
Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) on November 4, 2016
Very nice photography Mark - enjoyed your comments. This was really all Mark's work but thanks for the comments.
Rick Gentle (Rick19744) on November 3, 2016
Good write-up Marsha and great images Mark. Not that this UC Bearcat grad is bias !!!
Donna Knodle (dgknodle) on November 2, 2016
It's nice to get to know more about you Mark. A very good article about your passions in photography and superb photos to go with it.
Steve Kunder (smkunder) on November 2, 2016
Great article, I love reading these, as they help to keep people enthused about photography . Great pics, and it goes to show that you can stay around your home and get fantastic images. Thanks
Tom Jacob (sevendayimages) on November 2, 2016
Another excellent article, well written and nice to get to know our members a bit better. Stunning work Mark, and you're pictures are really an inspiration, not only by subject, but only in color and composition..truly very nice. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us, and Marsha for getting in all in structure. Cheers,
Geoff Baylis (GBaylis) on November 2, 2016
Great images - thanks for sharing them with the narrative. As a macro fan, the wet fly has to be my favourite. Geoff