One to One Tuition

One-to-One Portrait Photography Tuition in New York

Master Studio Lighting & Cinematic Portraiture

One-to-One Portrait Photography Tuition in New York (Rory Lewis Photographer )

One-to-One Portrait Photography Tuition in New York (Rory Lewis Photographer )

Private, intensive photography tuition led by Rory Lewis — an award-winning portraitist recognised by the National Portrait Gallery, Portrait of Britain, and Hasselblad Masters.

With over two decades spent photographing figures such as Sir Patrick Stewart, Dame Judi Dench, and Sir Ian McKellen, Rory offers a rare chance to learn the closely guarded craft of classical lighting and cinematic storytelling — in the heart of Manhattan. Sessions run throughout the year, as a single lesson or a structured programme built to carry your photography toward fine art.

Tailored Mentorship, Unmatched Results

Whether you are a passionate beginner after a bulletproof technical foundation, or an established professional refining an editorial style, these one-to-one workshops are built entirely around your goals.

You won't just be watching — you will be shooting. Practical, hands-on learning, guided directly by Rory, and you leave with portfolio-ready images.

Core focus areas

  • Lighting mastery — studio flash demystified: soft versus hard light, reflectors, and advanced modifiers.

  • The art of direction — how to pose, communicate with, and draw genuine emotion from your sitter.

  • Visual storytelling — composition, mood, and the cinematic narrative techniques behind high-end editorial work.

  • Professional workflow — real-world setups, client interaction, and building a distinctive visual signature.


Private Tuition Packages

All sessions take place at Rory's Manhattan studio and include collaboration with top-tier professional models. Every programme is quoted individually — contact Rory for a tailored quote.

PackageDurationBest for & inclusions

The Core Foundation 2 hours Emerging photographers. 1-to-1 tuition with one professional model; core lighting principles and camera control; one primary lighting setup.

The Signature Portfolio 2.5 hours Developing a distinctive style. 1-to-1 tuition with one professional model; multiple advanced lighting setups; focus on narrative, expression, and character.

The Cinematic Master 3 hours Professionals pushing into editorial work. Master-level 1-to-1 tuition with two professional models; multi-subject composition; complex, cinematic portrait construction.


Longer, multi-session programmes can be built around your schedule and ambitions — just ask.

The New York Studio

Your tuition takes place at 580 8th Avenue, 20th Floor, New York, NY 10018 — a creative space optimised for world-class portraiture, and the same room used for celebrity and editorial commissions.

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Ready to Transform Your Portfolio?

Availability is strictly limited to keep each session focused and personal. Get in touch with your goals, experience level, and preferred dates, and Rory will come back to you with a tailored programme and quote.

Email: RL@RORYLEWIS.STUDIO