Jordan Matter was born in New York City and grew up surrounded by creativity, with a grandfather who photographed for Vogue and a father who made films. He spent his early years chasing baseball and acting, never planning to become a photographer. But after seeing an exhibit by Henri Cartier-Bresson, everything changed.
He started his “Dancers Among Us” project in 2009 by asking a professional dancer to leap in an unexpected place. The idea was simple: capture the beauty of dance in everyday settings like subway stations and libraries. The result was a collection of joyful, breathtaking images that became a New York Times bestselling book.
His work has been exhibited internationally, from Seoul to Moscow to New York. Today, he is the most-followed photographer in the world, with nearly 50 million followers across social media. His YouTube channel has over 37 million subscribers and more than 15 billion views.
He has published several books, including “Born to Dance” and “Dancers After Dark”. His “10-Minute Photo Challenge” series became a viral sensation. He also collaborates with his daughter Salish, and together they have built a family brand that includes a skincare line sold at Sephora.
“I never planned to be a professional photographer. Photography really happened by chance.”
He has received numerous awards, including a Webby Award and a Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award. His work has been featured on The Today Show, BBC, ABC World News, People, and The New York Times. In 2026, Netflix signed a deal with him and his daughter for new projects.
His journey from struggling actor to global creator is a testament to resilience and creativity. He continues to inspire millions with his joyful, authentic storytelling. His work reminds us that beauty can be found in the most unexpected moments.
Q: What makes Jordan Matter’s photography unique?
A: His ability to capture the joy and beauty of dance in everyday settings, creating images that feel both spontaneous and magical. His work blends technical skill with a deep understanding of human emotion, making each photograph a celebration of life.