Capturing History and Tradition: The Royal Lancers

Capturing History and Tradition: Rory Lewis Photographs The Royal Lancers (Military Portrait Photographer Rory Lewis British Army 2024

Third Regimental Visit — 2024

April 04, 2024

My third visit to The Royal Lancers marked a significant moment in the continuing evolution of my long-term military portraiture work, now undertaken through my non-profit practice. Returning to the regiment in 2024 allowed for a deeper, more reflective engagement—building upon earlier sittings to create a cohesive body of work rooted in heritage, continuity, and service.

Immersed once again in the traditions of this distinguished cavalry regiment, I set out to construct formal table portraits that function as both contemporary records and historical echoes. These compositions were designed to honour regimental identity—drawing together uniform, silver, ceremonial objects, and posture to reflect the values carried by The Royal Lancers across generations.

Artistically, the work was informed by the compositional gravity of Holbein, the chiaroscuro and psychological presence of Caravaggio, and the formality and restraint of Sir Thomas Lawrence. These references guided the visual language of the portraits, shaping images that are sober, dignified, and deliberately timeless.

Capturing History and Tradition: Rory Lewis Photographs The Royal Lancers (Military Portrait Photographer Rory Lewis British Army 2024

Capturing History and Tradition: Rory Lewis Photographs The Royal Lancers (Military Portrait Photographer Rory Lewis British Army 2024

Capturing History and Tradition: Rory Lewis Photographs The Royal Lancers (Military Portrait Photographer Rory Lewis British Army 2024

The lighting was intentionally restrained and sculptural. Using three Profoto A2 heads, two OCF softboxes, and a translucent umbrella, I created a controlled, painterly light that enhanced texture and depth without overpowering the subject. Manfrotto Tobacco and Olive backdrops were selected to complement the regimental colours and polished metalwork, reinforcing a sense of continuity and quiet authority.

Capturing History and Tradition: Rory Lewis Photographs The Royal Lancers (Military Portrait Photographer Rory Lewis British Army 2024

Approached as an act of preservation rather than documentation alone, each portrait was created with the responsibility of legacy in mind. The resulting images speak to pride, professionalism, and the enduring commitment of those who serve—capturing not only likeness, but presence and purpose.

This third visit was deeply personal. To return, to refine, and to expand the visual archive of The Royal Lancers felt both a privilege and a duty. These portraits now stand as lasting tributes—intended for the regiment, for museums, and for future generations seeking to understand the human face of military service.