Black Rod Sarah Clarke OBE – Portrait Sitting

Sarah Clarke OBE made history in November 2017 when she was appointed Black Rod—the first woman to hold the position in its more than 650-year history. She formally assumed her duties as Lady Usher of the Black Rod in February 2018, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of one of Parliament’s oldest offices.

Black Rod Sarah Clarke OBE – Portrait Sitting (Rory Lewis Photographer 2021)

Black Rod is a senior officer of the House of Lords, responsible for maintaining order, overseeing access, and upholding centuries of tradition within the Upper Chamber. I had the privilege of photographing Sarah Clarke on location at the House of Lords, capturing the dignity, authority, and modernity she brings to this historic role.

The office of Black Rod is perhaps best known for its ceremonial duty during the State Opening of Parliament: the summoning of the House of Commons. In a ritual dating back to the aftermath of Charles I’s attempted arrest of five MPs in 1642, the Commons door is slammed shut at Black Rod’s approach. Only after knocking three times with the Black Rod is entry permitted—a symbolic assertion of the Commons’ independence.

Black Rod Sarah Clarke OBE – Portrait Sitting (Rory Lewis Photographer 2021)

Throughout my career, I have been commissioned to photograph an extensive range of political figures—from local councillors and MPs to Members of the House of Lords and Prime Ministers. Political portraiture requires finesse, trust, and the ability to reveal presence and character with precision, all central to my working method.

Now based in Los Angeles, I frequently work in London and New York, creating distinctive portraiture shaped by strong direction and imaginative scenarios. My approach encourages sitters to reveal authenticity and depth, producing natural and thought-provoking images. My clientele spans Royalty, former Prime Ministers, Hollywood actors, and senior military leaders.

I am available year-round for portrait sittings in Los Angeles, London, and New York.