New York and elevate your portrait work to a professional, cinematic standard.
This is not a passive lecture. It’s a practical, hands-on studio experience designed to refine your lighting, strengthen your direction, and transform how you see portraiture.
Investment: $389
Date: Saturday 14th March 2026
Limited Places Available
About the Tutor
Rory Lewis has made an exceptional mark on contemporary portrait photography, crafting imaginative and psychologically compelling images that are instantly recognisable for their dramatic light and painterly depth.
His sitters include:
Sir Ian McKellen
Sir Patrick Stewart
Ian McShane
Dame Judi Dench
Natalie Dormer
William Shatner
Rory is a four-time winner of the Portrait of Britain Award (2017–2020), and his work is held in the permanent collection of the National Portrait Gallery.
His acclaimed long-term project Soldiery documenting the modern British Army was recognised by the BBC as “The Changing Face of the British Army.”
What You’ll Learn
Experience the transformative power of immersive, hands-on training. In one focused day, you’ll gain more applied knowledge than months of reading theory.
Studio Lighting Mastery
Understanding soft vs hard light
Effective use of softboxes, umbrellas, snoots, and reflectors
Fill light, hair light, and back light techniques
Creating cinematic depth using controlled contrast
Directing & Posing
How to guide models confidently
Building expression and presence
Creating narrative and character in a single frame
Avoiding stiff or generic poses
Real Shooting Time
You will work directly with professional models and have ample time to shoot using the setups demonstrated. This is portfolio-building in real time.
Who Is This For?
Beginners ready to move beyond natural light
Intermediate photographers refining technical confidence
Enthusiasts serious about developing a distinctive visual style
Semi-professionals looking to strengthen their portfolio
Common Questions
Do I need to bring lighting equipment?
No — just your camera and lens.
An 85mm or 50mm lens is ideal for portraits.
Will I get to shoot?
Yes. There is dedicated shooting time with models and studio equipment.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes — beginners and intermediates are welcome. You should understand how to operate your camera in manual mode.
Why This Workshop Is Different
Rory’s approach blends classical painting influences with modern cinematic portraiture. Drawing inspiration from masters such as Caravaggio and Holbein, his lighting philosophy focuses on mood, structure, and narrative — not gimmicks.
You will leave with:
A stronger understanding of light
Increased confidence directing subjects
Portfolio-ready images
A clearer artistic direction