London, New York & Los Angeles – Rory Lewis, Royal Portrait Photographer

Today, we celebrate the 82nd birthday of His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent (Michael George Charles Franklin; born 4 July 1942)—a distinguished royal, military officer, and steadfast patron of charitable and fraternal causes.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the honor of photographing Prince Michael of Kent on four occasions. Each sitting offered a distinct window into his life of service, heritage, and quiet strength—capturing not only a royal presence, but a deeply human one.

Royal Naval Service & Historical Gravitas

Royal Naval Uniform as a Vice Admiral in the Royal Naval Reserve. Celebrating a Royal Legacy: Happy 82nd Birthday to Prince Michael of Kent (Rory Lewis Photographer)

Kensington Palace, 2019
During our second sitting, Prince Michael of Kent wore his Royal Naval Uniform as a Vice Admiral in the Royal Naval Reserve. I chose a profile composition with sharply sculpted lighting, aiming to reflect the dual themes of duty and lineage. The result was a portrait that echoed a classical tradition, while remaining grounded in the present.

A Coronation Portrait for a New Era

London Studio, 2023
Ahead of the Coronation of King Charles III (formerly Prince Charles)—who ascended the throne on 8 September 2022 and was crowned on 6 May 2023 I was commissioned to photograph Prince Michael of Kent once again. The first portrait featured His Royal Highness in full regimental uniform as Colonel of the King’s Royal Hussars. Framed by a crimson backdrop, the portrait was rich with symbolism—paying tribute to his military role and the historic occasion.

Colonel of the Honourable Artillery Company

London Studio, 2023
The second look during the Coronation sitting—His Royal Highness dressed in his Household frock coat—was in fact a fourth commissioned portrait, this time for the Honourable Artillery Company, of which Prince Michael of Kent proudly serves as Colonel.

Set against a stark black backdrop and rendered in chiaroscuro, the portrait embraced intensity and tradition. It conveyed solemnity, devotion, and the storied history of the oldest regiment in the British Army—echoing the tone and prestige of his office.

Fraternal Service & Royal Dignity

Kensington Palace, 2022
In 2022, I had the privilege of capturing Prince Michael of Kent in his role as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons. Photographed at Kensington Palace, the setting offered an air of historic regality that matched the Prince’s quiet authority. The portrait reflects both his leadership and his deep commitment to charitable and fraternal life.

Each of these four portrait sittings—spanning military, fraternal, and ceremonial duties—offered a glimpse into the layered and dignified world of Prince Michael of Kent.

From London to Los Angeles to New York, my goal has always been to preserve not just appearances, but meaning: to photograph legacy in the making.

Happy Birthday, Your Royal Highness. It has been an enduring privilege to tell part of your story through portraiture.

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Rory Lewis is an award‑winning portrait photographer available for commissions in London, Los Angeles, and New York. His work includes royalty, prime ministers, actors, military leaders, and CEOs.
www.rorylewis.studio