Capturing Andy Burnham — The King of the North

Capturing Andy Burnham — The King of the North (Rory Lewis Photographer 2026)

Andy Burnham has long been regarded as one of the most compelling figures in British politics — a politician whose authority is rooted as much in conviction as in connection. Recently, Burnham was blocked from standing as a candidate in the Gorton and Denton parliamentary by-election after Labour’s ruling body declined to grant approval. As a directly elected mayor, he was required to seek permission from the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), which cited the desire to “avoid an unnecessary mayoral election” and the associated cost to taxpayers.

Burnham expressed his disappointment publicly, but the decision has only reinforced his stature. Widely viewed as a potential future leadership challenger to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, his continued absence from Westminster has done little to diminish his national influence. To many, he remains the de facto voice of the North — a figure shaped by place, principle, and persistence.

Political Portraiture Beyond the Likeness

Capturing Andy Burnham — The King of the North (Rory Lewis Photographer 2026)

Photographing Andy Burnham — often dubbed “the King of the North” — demanded far more than a conventional portrait. Political portraiture requires the ability to distill presence, purpose, and character into a single frame. It is about revealing authority without theatrics, and humanity without softness.

Working with high-profile figures who operate under constant pressure and limited time, I focus on creating a calm, efficient environment — one that allows genuine expression to surface naturally while maintaining an elegant, understated visual language.

A Consistent Approach to Power and Public Life

Whether photographing in the historic halls of Whitehall, inside the offices of Capitol Hill, or on location at embassies, ministries, or official residences, my approach remains consistent:
to create portraits that speak to leadership, legacy, and the weight of public responsibility.

My work has been exhibited internationally and acquired by the National Portrait Gallery, and commissioned by institutions including the UK Government, the Ministry of Defence, JP Morgan, and major global media outlets.

I have had the privilege of photographing many of the most recognised political figures of our time, including Tony Blair, David Cameron, Theresa May, Usha Vance, and Eric Garcetti, alongside key parliamentary officers such as Lindsay Hoyle, Ugbana Oyet, and Sarah Clarke.

Political, Diplomatic & Institutional Commissions

I am available for political, governmental, diplomatic, and institutional commissions in London, New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., and regularly travel worldwide to accommodate ministerial schedules, diplomatic engagements, campaign needs, and high-level assignments.

Whether working in a studio setting or on location within government buildings, embassies, or campaign headquarters, each session is carefully tailored to the unique demands of public service — while preserving a refined, human, and timeless photographic style.

If you represent a political figure, diplomatic mission, press office, campaign team, or publication seeking portraits that convey depth, credibility, and leadership, I welcome your enquiry.

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📍 Available Worldwide — London • New York • Los Angeles • Washington, D.C.
For work-related enquiries: AL@RORYLEWIS.STUDIO
For syndication enquiries: AnnMarie.Araujo@gettyimages.com