Community Pioneer • LRPS‑accredited Photographer • Creative Storyteller
Based in Kendal, Cumbria

About Me
I’m Jonny Gios (originally from Stockport), now living in Kendal with my wife Pamela (“Tot”) and our two children. Since moving from Carlisle in 2011, I’ve cherished life in Cumbria, working passionately to serve both God and community.

Ministry & Community Engagement

As Community Worker at Sandylands Methodist Church, I lead pioneering initiatives that tackle social challenges across our local area.

Our mission efforts on the Sandylands estate were honoured in the UK Parliament via an Early Day Motion in 2012, tabled by Tim Farron MP.

We were recently nominated by the Joseph Rank Foundation for the Best Church for Social Action, celebrated at Lambeth Palace — a recognition that’s opened new opportunities.

I also support youth ministry across the Cumbria Methodist District as its Youth Officer.

Prior to this, I spent over a decade serving the community in Carlisle through the Living Well Trust (on the Raffles Estate), fulfilling roles from Youth Pastor to Associate Minister from 2009. I was ordained in the Church of the Nazarene in 2010 and have a background in newspaper journalism with CN Group and Guardian Media Group.

Photography & Creative Work

My creative journey began in graphic design (City College Manchester), later evolving in photography while working at Manchester Evening News

Since 2019, I’ve pursued photography full-time, capturing landscapes, wildlife, and people—earning features in Cumbria Life, Tatler, and as a contributor to Unsplash (3 million+ downloads) jgios.com.

I shoot exclusively on Sony (A7R V & A1) and am a qualified A2 drone pilot (DJI Mavic 4 Pro & Mini 3 Pro)jgios.com.

In November 2024, I achieved the LRPS distinction from the Royal Photographic Society and am working toward my ARPS jgios.com.

I offer bespoke photography and video services, including commercial shoots, weddings, workshops (landscape, wildlife, portrait), and limited-edition prints. My 2026 landscape calendar sold out early in 2025 jgios.com

Passions & Interests
I’m an avid Manchester City FC supporter ⚽️, a lover of graphic design and theology — especially Fresh Expressions, community-focused ministry, and justice for the marginalised.