Bonjour, we’re Jona + Meli
A Canadian couple living in Paris, who met at a Bob Dylan concert back in 2008 and have been together ever since.
We’re happiest when the experience feels more like spending time with friends than posing for a camera.
Jona grew up in Montreal, Canada.
He often says that photography has given him a reason to explore unfamiliar places and meet people whose lives might be very different from his own.
Formally studying photojournalism taught him to look beyond the obvious photograph and pay attention to the moments happening around it. He’ll often say that he’s always enjoyed the challenge of finding an interesting composition or working with beautiful light, but some of his favourite photographs are the ones that weren't planned at all.
You can prepare for a session or an occasion, but you never really know when someone will burst out laughing, exchange a meaningful glance, or do something that perfectly captures their personality.
He works with a mixture of observation and gentle direction, depending on the situation. During a portrait session, that might mean finding the right light and helping someone settle into the experience. At an event, he’s usually moving around, watching what's happening or trying to catch the moments that people might otherwise miss.
Publications
Meli is originally from Canada and although she's travelled to more than 25 countries, her list of places she'd still like to visit somehow keeps getting longer.
Her love of photography developed alongside her travels, as she discovered how much she enjoyed documenting not just the places she visited, but the people and everyday moments that gave them character. With a background in history and literature, she's always been drawn to the stories behind what she sees and photography has become another way of exploring that curiosity.
When she's not behind the camera, she works as a Paris tour guide, sharing her love of the city with visitors from around the world. Years of exploring its streets have given her an eye for beautiful settings, interesting details and quiet corners that make wonderful backdrops.
What she enjoys most about photography, though, is the opportunity to connect with people. She loves getting to know the person in front of her camera and creating an atmosphere where they can relax and be themselves. Whether it’s a portrait session or an event, she's always on the lookout for the expressions and little moments that make each occasion personal.
And if you leave with a few good recommendations as well, consider that a little bonus.