ABOUT JERRY GHIONIS
Jerry Ghionis is widely regarded as one of the most influential portrait and wedding photographers of the 21st century.
Blending a strong European sense of style with a relaxed Australian sensibility, Jerry and his wife Melissa are based in Las Vegas, working together as a powerful creative and business partnership. Their work and education take them around the world, where they continue to photograph, teach, and inspire a global audience. Jerry has photographed and taught in over fifty countries.
STYLE
With the flair of a fashion designer and the precision of an architect, Jerry’s work is best described as vintage glamour meets contemporary fashion.
Known for his ability to both capture and create magic, his imagery is a balance of simplicity and sophistication, combining emotion, light, and storytelling. His connection with people allows him to bring out a natural confidence in front of the camera, resulting in images that feel both powerful and authentic.
While his style is instantly recognizable, Jerry has continually reinvented himself over three decades. Just when his work feels defined, he evolves it again, earning a reputation as predictably unpredictable.
BEGINNING
Born in 1973, Jerry discovered photography at fifteen and quickly became obsessed.
After leaving formal education early, frustrated by textbook learning, he pursued real-world experience instead. In 1994, he offered to work unpaid at a Melbourne studio on weekends, eventually rising to studio manager and principal photographer.
In 1997, he launched his own business and went on to lead XSiGHT Photography and Video, one of Australia’s largest studios, producing over 300 weddings annually with a team of fifteen. After a decade, he sold the studio and transitioned into a boutique brand, marking the beginning of a new creative chapter.
REINVENTION
Jerry’s early dream was to shoot in California, inspired by Herb Ritts.
That vision became reality in 2011 when he and Melissa opened a rooftop studio in Beverly Hills. In 2017, they relocated to Las Vegas, where they continue to build a thriving photography and education business serving an international clientele.
ACCOLADES
Jerry is a WPPI Grand Master and the most awarded photographer in the organization’s history, including nine International Wedding Album of the Year titles.
He is a Nikon Ambassador and has been named one of the world’s top wedding photographers by American Photo Magazine. His achievements also include multiple AIPP Photographer of the Year titles, four PPA Diamond Photographer of the Year awards, and the SWPP Photographer of the Year.
In 2011, PDN named him one of the world’s top photography workshop instructors, and in 2014 he received a United Nations IPC Leadership Award.
TEACHER
Jerry has been educating photographers since 2000 and is widely regarded as one of the most engaging and influential instructors in the industry.
Known for his clarity, humor, and real-world approach, he teaches photographers how to think, see, and create with purpose. His philosophy goes beyond technique, focusing on creativity, business, and building a sustainable career.
Often referred to as the “MacGyver of photography,” Jerry is known for transforming ordinary situations into extraordinary images and teaching others how to do the same.
INVENTOR
Jerry is also an innovator in photographic tools and education.
He created one of the first online photography training platforms and invented the Ice Light, a revolutionary portable LED system used by photographers and filmmakers worldwide. He also designed the Omega Reflector, the world’s first 15-in-1 shoot-through reflector.
PHILANTHROPY
Together, Jerry and Melissa co-founded the Soul Society, a non-profit dedicated to supporting disadvantaged communities around the world.
Their work has been recognized by the Imaging Alliance for their contribution to humanitarian efforts within the photographic industry.
ICON INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS
In 2023, Jerry and Melissa founded the Icon International Photography Awards, continuing the legacy of the WPPI competition.
Built on the pillars of inspiration, education, integrity, and the power of print, the Icon Awards has quickly established itself as a leading global competition for portrait and wedding photographers.
With decades of experience as competitors, judges, and directors, Jerry and Melissa have reimagined a modern, sustainable competition that celebrates excellence while elevating the industry.
LEGACY
Now based in Las Vegas, Jerry continues to evolve his work, drawing inspiration from performers, portraiture, and commercial projects.
With over three decades of experience, he remains committed to pushing creative boundaries while helping photographers grow both artistically and professionally.
