Conversations with Karla Kieffer

Today we’d like to introduce you to Karla Kieffer.

Karla, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m a mom of four, and three of my kids are on the autism spectrum, so for a long time the idea of disappearing for hours to chase light or travel for landscapes just wasn’t realistic. Photography had to fit into our life, not pull me away from it. Instead of going alone, I started bringing my family with me. Road trips became photo trips. Everyday moments turned into inspiration. I learned to work with the time I had and to see beauty wherever I was.

During those years, I also worked alongside my husband on film and television productions. Whenever I could, I photographed sets and shot between the margins of busy days. Being around storytelling in that world shaped how I see composition and atmosphere, and it definitely influenced the way I approach my own work.

Little by little, I built my photography career the same way—slowly and steadily. I began selling prints online, then at festivals and art shows, sharing pieces of the places and moments that meant something to me.

As my kids have gotten older, life has opened up a bit more space to explore, but the heart of my work is still the same. Photography, for me, is about paying attention—finding quiet beauty in real life and capturing it honestly.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of my first big challenges was the transition from film to digital. I learned photography on film, and I loved everything about it, the slowness, the intention, the discipline it required. Moving to digital felt overwhelming and, honestly, a little impersonal at first. I resisted it for a while. But eventually I realized it wasn’t about the tool, it was about the eye behind it.

At the same time, I was navigating motherhood in a very full, very hands-on way. I’m raising four kids, and we homeschool, so my days have always revolved around being present for them. There wasn’t a lot of uninterrupted creative time. Most of my work happened early in the morning, late at night, or in the small in-between moments. It required patience and a lot of grace with myself. I had to let go of the idea that creativity only happens under perfect conditions.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My work has always been rooted in a love for landscapes. Early on, I was deeply inspired by Ansel Adams. Seeing his images made me want to go out and experience those places for myself, to chase that same sense of stillness and awe. That inspiration pushed me to photograph not just during the day, but at night too, which eventually led me into astrophotography. Learning how to work with the stars, long exposures, and the quiet of the night completely changed how I see the world.

Over time, I realized I’m less interested in traditional postcard views and more drawn to unusual compositions—details, angles, and perspectives that feel a little unexpected. I like images that make people pause for a second look. I’m always asking myself how I can show a familiar place in a way that feels new or more personal.

What I love most, though, is the entire process. Not just capturing the photo, but everything that comes after. Printing, mounting, finishing, sometimes even sealing pieces with resin. Turning a digital image into a physical piece you can hold or hang on a wall feels really meaningful.

What matters most to you?
What matters most to me, above everything else, is my relationship with Christ. It’s the foundation for how I live, how I love my family, and how I create. My faith isn’t separate from my work, it’s the reason behind it.

I’ve always felt that if my vertical relationship with God is healthy, my horizontal relationships with my husband, my kids, and the people I serve through my art naturally fall into place. When I’m grounded in prayer and trust, I’m more patient, more present, and less driven by comparison or pressure. It changes the way I move through the world.

For me, photography is another way of paying attention to what God has made, light, landscapes, quiet moments and honoring that beauty. My faith keeps me grounded and grateful. It’s the compass behind everything I do.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.karlakieffer.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k_j_kieffer_photography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kjkiefferphotography

Image Credits
Picture of Kieffer Family- timer
All images are shot by Karla Kieffer