Rory Lewis: Portrait & Headshot Photographer

In this newly unveiled portrait of former Prime Minister Tony Blair, portrait photographer Rory Lewis explores not the image of power but its human cost. Years after their first sitting, Lewis captures Blair with a softened expression yet undiminished intellect—an introspective study of conviction, consequence, and time.

It was an absolute pleasure to photograph Ben Miles, whose remarkable career spans stage, film, and television. From his breakout role in the BBC comedy Coupling to his nuanced portrayal of Peter Townsend in The Crown and most recently as Tay Kolma in Andor, Ben has long stood as one of Britain’s most versatile actors.

For years, I’ve held an ambition close to my creative heart: to photograph the extraordinary quartet behind The League of Gentlemen. Mark Gatiss, Steve Pemberton, Reece Shearsmith, and Jeremy Dyson forged a world of pitch-black humour, grotesque beauty, and unforgettable characters. As a teenager, their work opened a doorway to the kind of atmospheric, stylised storytelling that still influences my portraiture today.

It was a pleasure to welcome actor Michael James Shaw (The Walking Dead, Avengers: Infinity War, Endgame) back to my studio for our second sitting together. Michael is one of those rare performers who can shift seamlessly between roles, and this session was the perfect opportunity to explore that range.

I was commissioned by The Free Press to photograph Usha Vance, the Second Lady of the United States. The session took place at her residence on Observatory Hill—a quiet morning where pale spring light slipped through bare branches and drifted softly across cream silk and wide-leg tailoring. The atmosphere carried both intimacy and a quiet sense of national importance.

William Shatner is a name that needs little introduction. To most of the world, he will forever be Captain James T. Kirk—bold, charismatic, impossible to ignore. Yet behind the legend is a man of immense curiosity, wit, and surprising passions, among them a deep devotion to horses. It is this quiet, personal side of Shatner that inspired our latest portrait together.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my ChronoVisions project is the ability to explore the emotions and complexities of my subjects within a historical and artistic framework. Recently, I had the privilege of photographing Barbara Ramos, a striking and thoughtful subject whose presence brought a unique depth to this ongoing series.

As a photographer, I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of history and storytelling. My latest portrait, titled "The Civil Code," is a continuation of my ChronoVisions series, a project inspired by the enigmatic Chronovisor and the allure of exploring different eras through art. This particular portrait takes its cues from the Napoleonic era, a time of revolutionary change and enduring influence.

My portrait session with Andy Serkis is one of the latest additions to my ongoing project Selah. The series draws on the mood and dramatic lighting of the Old Masters, especially the tenebrism of Caravaggio and Ribera. For Andy’s sitting, I wanted to create a moment of quiet reflection—something raw, intimate, and rooted in a sense of personal pilgrimage.

Influenced by the atmosphere of the 1930s and shaped by visual references to Caravaggio, Frank Herbert, David Lynch, and classical portraiture, each image embodies a surreal tension between classical light and modern expression. The result is a hybrid documentation of imagined histories—portraits that feel both ancient and entirely new.

Celebrated actor, model, and voice artist VJ Kesh recently posed for a series of striking portraits at Rory Lewis’s Los Angeles studio. Known for his roles in Wilfred (2007), Blue Heelers (1994), and Narcosys (2000), VJ Kesh brings over 35 years of experience in film, television, and theater. Born in Malaysia and of Indian ancestry, Kesh has spent decades honing his craft across Australia, India, Europe, the U.S., and Mexico. This rich tapestry of life experiences makes him a sought-after talent for character-driven roles and voice narration.

In the fast-moving world of finance, trust, clarity, and confidence shape every decision. For DoubleLine — one of the most respected independent, employee-owned investment firms in the United States — presenting a strong, authentic visual identity is essential. When the company sought portraits that reflected its leadership's precision, professionalism, and credibility, they turned to portrait photographer Rory Lewis.

Former Mayor of Los Angeles and current U.S. Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, became my latest portrait subject during a recent session at my Los Angeles studio. As with all my political portraiture, the sitting was shaped not simply by technique, but by a deep well of artistic influence—most notably the indelible mark left on me by Hans Holbein the Younger. Holbein’s work has been woven into my visual consciousness since childhood.

I am honored that my portrait of Maye Musk has been featured on the cover of Good Light Magazine. The session, titled A Timeless Portrait, was conceived as a modern interpretation of classical portraiture—combining restrained elegance, dramatic light, and psychological depth.

Maye Musk is a rare figure whose presence transcends industry and era. A model of international acclaim and a respected dietitian, her career spans over five decades, marked by intelligence, resilience, and an unmistakable elegance. She has appeared on the covers of Time (Health Edition), Women’s Day, international editions of Vogue, and the iconic Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue—each image reinforcing her status as a modern cultural icon.

A portrait by Rory Lewis of Black Rod Sarah Clarke OBE has been shortlisted for Portrait of Britain 2022, presented by the British Journal of Photography.

At my New York studio, I had the distinct honor of photographing Maye Musk in a portrait inspired by the timeless techniques of the Old Masters — Rembrandt, Caravaggio, Titian, and Ribera. The session sought to channel the chiaroscuro light and emotional intensity of classical portraiture while celebrating Maye’s modern grace and intellectual depth.

In this portrait of Ray Dalio, photographed in New York in 2022, I set out to capture one of the most defining transitions in modern finance — the moment a master of markets chose to rethink his own long-held beliefs.

Photographing Prime Minister Theresa May stands as one of the most significant political sittings of my career. Lady May is the fourth British Prime Minister I have had the honour to photograph—an opportunity that places this session within a long-standing tradition of documenting national leadership for posterity.

Ugbana Oyet serves as the Serjeant at Arms of the House of Commons, a role steeped in centuries of parliamentary history. The office dates back to 1415, when the Serjeant was responsible for enforcing the orders of the House—including making arrests. Today, the role is defined by both authority and tradition, with ceremonial duties such as carrying the mace in the Speaker’s Procession and during the State Opening of Parliament.

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.

Throughout my career, I have been commissioned to photograph a wide range of political figures — from local councillors and Members of Parliament to peers of the House of Lords and former Prime Ministers. Yet this sitting was particularly meaningful, offering a chance to create work within one of the most iconic settings in British public life.

Simon Hart MP is a British politician who has served as Secretary of State for Wales since 2019. A member of the Conservative Party, he was first elected to Parliament in the 2010 general election.

In April 2020, I had the pleasure of photographing acclaimed American actor Bob Gunton at my Los Angeles studio. Known for his commanding presence on both stage and screen, Bob is celebrated for portraying formidable, authoritative characters—most memorably Warden Samuel Norton in The Shawshank Redemption. His screen credits also include Demolition Man, Patch Adams, Argo, Daredevil, 24, and Desperate Housewives.

Gavin Williamson CBE MP is a prominent British Conservative politician, first elected as the Member of Parliament for South Staffordshire in 2010. At the time of this sitting, he was serving as Secretary of State for Education and required a contemporary set of portraits that reflected an approachable, professional, and forward-looking image ahead of the General Election.

Acclaimed British portrait photographer Rory Lewis welcomed award-winning actor Tobias Menzies to his London studio for a cinematic portrait session that explored depth, vulnerability, and quiet strength.

Actor James Purefoy is a magnetic presence on both stage and screen. From crossing swords with Heath Ledger in A Knight’s Tale to leading the dark, psychological tension of Fox’s The Following, Purefoy’s career spans an extraordinary range of film, television, and theatre—placing him firmly among the most versatile British actors of his generation.

Inviting former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair to sit for a portrait in London was a remarkable opportunity. Serving as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1997 to 2007, he was the third former leader I have photographed—an exciting and significant moment in my ongoing work documenting contemporary political history.

This picture has actually lost me a few jobs. Plus I think I might even have lost a flat because of it. I was looking at a property and was chatting to the estate agent and told them that I’d recently shot David Cameron. We put an offer in – for the asking price – but it was turned down. So yes, I do suspect people don’t like David Cameron.

This portrait of former Prime Minister David Cameron was one of the most demanding yet rewarding sittings of my career. Captured in London, the session offered a rare opportunity to portray a figure who played a defining role in a turbulent chapter of British political history. Serving as Prime Minister from 2010 to 2016, David Cameron remains a complex and often polarising figure, shaped by the pressures of leadership and the legacy of Brexit.

In October 2025, I had the honor of photographing Major General James Bowder OBE, the third consecutive Major-General of the Household Division I have captured for the Rory Lewis Non-Profit. Following my portraits of Major General Benjamin Bathurst CBE and Major General Chris Ghika CBE, this latest sitting continues an evolving visual record of those entrusted with upholding the highest traditions of the British Army and the Crown.

Field Marshal David Julian Richards, Baron Richards of Herstmonceux, GCB, CBE, DSO, DL—appointed Honorary Field Marshal by His Majesty The King in June 2025—sat for my non-profit archive on Monday, 6 October 2025. This portrait marks a significant addition to our mission to document the living history of Britain’s senior military leadership through the art of portraiture.

On October 7, 2023, Israel was plunged into chaos when Hamas launched a brutal surprise attack, leaving over a thousand civilians dead and the nation on the brink of war. Among the Americans closest to the events was Gunnery Sergeant Marcus Lewis, Commander of the Marine Security Guard Detachment at the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem.

The Rory Lewis Non-Profit is proud to have funded the latest addition to the distinguished gallery of British Army leaders: a portrait of General Sir Patrick Sanders, KCB, CBE, DSO, ADC Gen. Serving as Chief of the General Staff since June 2022, Sir Patrick’s career exemplifies the leadership, dedication, and strategic excellence that define the modern British Army.

The Rory Lewis Non-Profit is honored to have captured and preserved the legacy of Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the current Chief of the Defence Staff, marking him as the fifth Chief of the Defence Staff photographed by Rory Lewis. This portrait continues the Non-Profit’s mission to document and celebrate the leadership and service of Britain’s most distinguished military figures.

In 2021, I had the privilege of photographing Major GeneralChris Ghika CBE at Horse Guards, London — a setting steeped in history, once occupied by the Duke of Wellington himself. The portrait sought to capture not just a military leader, but a custodian of national pageantry and heritage.

The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment is among the most distinguished mounted units in the world. Tasked with ceremonial duties, they embody centuries of tradition as part of the Household Division, serving as the Monarch’s official bodyguard and providing escorts at state and royal occasions.

In 2019, the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards commissioned a series of portraits of their Commanding Officer and Senior Warrant Officers, photographed in Windsor. These sittings form a vital addition to the Rory Lewis Non-Profit Military Portrait Archive, an ongoing effort to document the leadership and heritage of British and Allied service members. The project seeks to protect these likenesses for national history, museum collections, and future generations.

Our 2019 sitting with Major General Benjamin Bathurst CBE of the Welsh Guards took place at Horse Guards, London, within the historic office once occupied by the Duke of Wellington. Seated behind the very desk that once belonged to the “Iron Duke,” Bathurst joined a long line of leaders who have shaped the ceremonial face of Britain’s Armed Forces.

Soldati della Repubblica è il mio secondo grande progetto dedicato al ritratto militare. Sulla scia del successo di Soldiery – British Army Portraits, ho proseguito il mio intento di documentare il volto moderno, le tradizioni e la storia vivente dell’Esercito Italiano. Tra tutte le unità che ho ritratto, il periodo trascorso con il 5º Reggimento Cavalleggeri, gli storici Lancieri di Novara, rimane uno dei più coinvolgenti e indimenticabili.

In 2018, I had the rare honour of photographing His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent, in a portrait sitting that captured not only royal stature, but a lifetime of military service. Dressed in his ceremonial uniform as Field Marshal, His Royal Highness stood as a living symbol of dedication, discipline, and enduring legacy within the British Armed Forces.

Il Reggimento Corazzieri, corpo d’élite e guardia d’onore del Presidente della Repubblica Italiana, è una delle unità militari più antiche, prestigiose e simboliche del Paese. Il loro motto, «Virtus in periculis firmior» — Il coraggio diventa più forte nel pericolo — riassume perfettamente la natura di questo straordinario reparto.

Il 23 agosto 2018 ho raggiunto Palermo per ritrarre le donne e gli uomini del Reggimento “Lancieri di Aosta” (6º), nell’ambito del mio progetto non profit Soldati della Repubblica, realizzato attraverso la Rory Lewis Non Profit. All’interno della storica sede siciliana del reparto ho potuto riunire, davanti all’obiettivo, Ufficiali, Sottufficiali e Lancieri, in una serie di ritratti che celebrano al tempo stesso l’individualità e l’identità condivisa di questi Soldati della Repubblica.

Il Reggimento “Nizza Cavalleria” (1°) occupa un posto di rilievo all’interno del progetto Soldati della Repubblica. Tra i più antichi reparti di cavalleria dell’Esercito Italiano, rappresenta perfettamente la continuità che desidero catturare: un ponte vivente tra secoli di storia e il volto del soldato moderno.

As part of the Rory Lewis Non-Profit’s mission to document and preserve the people, traditions, and visual heritage of modern military forces, I was honoured to begin the Italian chapter of my project Soldati della Repubblica with the distinguished 8th Cavalry Regiment “Lancieri di Montebello”.

Among the many regiments I photographed, the 1st Battalion, The Rifles stands out for its deep-rooted traditions and enduring character. Little has changed for The Rifles since the Napoleonic Wars—they remain at the forefront of battle, defined by precision, independence, and quiet professionalism. True to their motto, Swift and Bold, they carry no flag; instead, their Battle Honours are worn proudly upon their uniforms.

One of the most meaningful opportunities through my non-profit archive has been the privilege of photographing senior figures within the British Armed Forces. Among these sittings, capturing a British Field Marshal stands as both an artistic milestone and a moment of profound historical significance.

For nearly a year I’ve been traveling across the United Kingdom and Europe as part of Soldiery — British Army Projects, an ongoing initiative through Rory Lewis Non-Profit to create a contemporary visual archive of the British Army. The aim is simple but vital: to preserve a truthful, dignified record of the men and women who serve today, before uniforms, traditions, and identities inevitably change.

As Colonel of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, Major General Bruce has dedicated his life to leadership, service, and the embodiment of the Army’s values. This portrait session stands as a testament to his extraordinary contributions and the pride he carries in representing one of Britain’s most historic regiments.

The 1st Battalion The Royal Welsh, based in Tidworth, represents one of the most historically significant infantry lineages in the British Army. Their iconic ceremonial uniforms—rooted in traditions dating back to the Victorian era and the height of the British Empire—carry centuries of regimental identity, inherited from the Royal Welch Fusiliers and the Royal Regiment of Wales.