About Jessica
Your Outdoor-Loving Photographer!
If you’re here because you’re looking for a photographer who loves the outdoors as much as you do, you’re in the right place! The couples I work with are outdoor enthusiasts, whether they love hiking, skiing, camping, backpacking, rock climbing, ATVing, fishing, or cottaging. They have picked outdoor locations for their weddings because they couldn’t imagine planning their day without nature being a part of it. I believe your photographer should be a calm, open-minded and flexible presence who is inspired by your unique story and gives you gorgeous photographs. I do that by authentically capturing the emotions and moments throughout your wedding day.
Hi, I’m Jessica, and I love the outdoors as much as you!
Hi, I’m Jessica! (she/her) jals photography is created from my initials (Jessica Ann Lindsay-Sonkin), and is pronounced as one word, “jals.” I became an Ontario wedding and elopement photographer when I opened jals photography in 2013. I wanted to combine my love of the outdoors with my interest in capturing connection and moments.
I fell in love with adventure when I was young. Family trips to provincial parks (Pinery and Sandbanks were our go to spots), and summers at camp helped my love and appreciate the beauty of Ontario. I also have had the pleasure of exploring places outside of the country and making a list of “must-do” hikes is my favourite part of travelling!
You should hire an outdoor-loving photographer to photograph your nature-inspired wedding!
Originally from Toronto, I moved to Belleville, Ontario in 2010 and I love how it has given me the opportunity to spend more time discovering new places and enjoying the outdoors. In 2019, I completed the #52hikechallenge and got to know the area very well. In 2020, I far surpassed 52 hikes and I am continually seeking new trails to tackle. So far, my favourite hiking trail was The Scouts Looking (Angel’s Landing, but didn’t make it that high!) trail in Zion National Park. My favourite spot in Canada to explore is Jasper, hands down!
Other fun facts – I’m also a teacher, I lead Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Indigeneity training in Prince Edward County, I LOVE rocks and gems, I love sunshine, I have two young children and my favourite tree is the birch tree. Oh! and I can’t choose between the desert, the beach, the mountains or the ocean for my favourite spot – they all hold so much meaning to me for different reasons!
Philsophy
“To encourage couples to embrace their love of the outdoors and celebrate all of the elements that makes their love story and their commitment to each other unique.”
Core Values
Photograph Authentically
Capture honest moments and emotions for couples and families of all races, sexualities, abilities and religions.
Practice Kindness
Set up safe spaces where couples feel welcomed, relaxed and free to be themselves
Explore, Learn, Create
Seek inspiration, pursue education and make beautiful photographs.
Share Stories
Learn my couples personal histories, beliefs and values in order to photograph them accurately and with meaning
Cultivate Curiosity
Impart a love and passion for the outdoors by adhering to Leave No Trace principles and supporting organizations that protect the environment and facilitate equal access to the outdoors.