Meet Rory Lewis | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rory Lewis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rory, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind my success has been an unwavering commitment to authenticity and precision. In an era where imagery is often filtered, rushed, or generic, I take a different approach—treating every portrait as a study in character. Whether I’m working with a Hollywood actor, a corporate executive, or a decorated military officer, I strive to create images that are honest, timeless, and deeply human.

Success has also come from building trust. My clients know that I don’t just point a camera—I direct, collaborate, and shape a narrative. It’s a highly personalized process. From detailed pre-shoot consultations to lighting, posing, and post-production, every detail is tailored to the individual. This philosophy has helped me grow internationally, from London to New York and Los Angeles, and build lasting relationships with clients from all walks of life.

Another key factor is adaptability. While I specialize in headshots and portraiture, I’ve never allowed myself to be boxed in. I’ve documented prime ministers, Hollywood legends, frontline military personnel, and emerging artists—always evolving my style while staying true to my core principles: dignity, direction, and story.

Lastly, none of this would be possible without the support of my wife and production director, Sasha Lewis. Her creative insight, organization, and constant encouragement have been instrumental in every chapter of this journey.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is rooted in storytelling. I’m not interested in just taking a photograph—I want to create a portrait that feels like a conversation between the viewer and the subject. Whether I’m working with a Hollywood icon, a rising actor, a CEO, or a military leader, my aim is always the same: to reveal something human, honest, and enduring.

What sets my work apart is my background in history and my reverence for classical portraiture. I draw inspiration from masters like Holbein and Caravaggio, and I apply those artistic principles to modern portraiture—using light, posture, and expression to evoke strength, vulnerability, or character. My sessions are deeply directed and highly intentional. Every detail is considered—from wardrobe and setting to gesture and gaze.

I’m especially proud of my Soldiery project, which documented the evolving face of the British Army. It took two years, and the images are now held in national collections and have been praised by the BBC as “the changing face of the British Army.” That project wasn’t just about uniforms and ranks—it was about people, identity, and legacy. More recently, I’ve launched Heroes in Focus, a nonprofit initiative capturing portraits of service members, veterans, and first responders in both the UK and US. It’s deeply personal and purpose-driven work.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. I started out without connections, funding, or even a studio. I had to build everything from the ground up—knocking on doors, reaching out to people I admired, and proving myself again and again. The art world can be exclusive, but persistence, professionalism, and integrity have opened doors. I learned to treat every client and every subject with the same level of respect and care—whether they’re famous or not.

The greatest lesson I’ve learned is that longevity comes from consistency. Talent is just the start—you need discipline, humility, and a clear vision. I want the world to know that my work is not about ego or trend; it’s about people. It’s about creating portraits that matter—images that speak to the present while honoring the timeless.

Ultimately, my brand is built on trust, intention, and craftsmanship. I don’t offer quick snapshots—I offer a legacy in pixels.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Los Angeles for a week, I’d curate a mix of classic LA charm, hidden gems, and a dose of creative inspiration. LA is such a sprawling, multi-layered city—you have to experience it with intention.

Day 1: The Classic Welcome
We’d start with breakfast at Republique—not just for the pastries but the stunning architecture. Then a walk around LACMA and the La Brea Tar Pits, followed by a quick stop at Book Soup on Sunset for some literary browsing. We’d end the day watching the sun dip behind the Pacific from El Matador Beach in Malibu, then grab dinner at Nobu—because if you’re going to splurge, do it with a view.

Day 2: Art, Coffee, and Conversation
We’d start in the Arts District—coffee at Maru or Blacktop, and then dive into Hauser & Wirth or The Broad for contemporary art. Lunch at Bavel (Middle Eastern, unforgettable), then wander through the Last Bookstore, and finish with rooftop drinks at Perch with a view over Downtown.

Day 3: Hollywood with Substance
We’d visit Hollywood Forever Cemetery (seriously atmospheric), then tour the Academy Museum for a deeper dive into film history. For lunch, Musso & Frank Grill—because you can’t skip the oldest restaurant in Hollywood. That evening, we’d catch a play at the Geffen Playhouse or a screening at the Egyptian Theatre.

Day 4: Beach Day with Soul
We’d drive down to Venice Beach, rent bikes to cruise the boardwalk, then stroll Abbot Kinney for boutiques and galleries. Late lunch at Gjelina, followed by golden hour in Santa Monica, perhaps a sunset ride on the Ferris wheel, and dinner at The Misfit—charming, unpretentious, and delicious.

Day 5: Behind the Scenes
If they’re into what I do, I’d bring them behind the scenes at a portrait shoot—either in my Downtown LA studio or on location. It’s always exciting to share that part of my world. Afterwards, dinner at Bestia or Rossoblu—both downtown powerhouses.

Day 6: Griffith & Views
We’d hike up to Griffith Observatory in the morning, then hit Los Feliz for brunch at All Time. Afterward, wander Skylight Books, and maybe relax at Echo Park Lake. In the evening, dinner and jazz at Zebulon or The Sun Rose at the Pendry.

Day 7: The Wrap-Up
For a slower final day, we’d explore Silver Lake—brunch at Sqirl or Pine & Crane, people-watching at the reservoir, and a quiet stroll through Mount Washington or Descanso Gardens. Final dinner at Osteria Mozza—a proper send-off, followed by nightcaps at Bar Lis with the city lights around us.

LA is full of contradictions—Hollywood glitz and gritty art scenes, serene hikes and chaotic freeways—but that’s the magic. It’s a city that rewards the curious. The most interesting people here are the ones who came to create something—and stayed to make it real.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely—no success story is ever truly a solo act. I owe a great deal to my wife and creative partner, Sasha Lewis. As my production director, Sasha is the driving force behind the scenes—coordinating shoots, refining creative direction, and ensuring everything runs smoothly. But beyond the logistics, her belief in my vision, even in the most uncertain moments, has kept me grounded and focused. She has an incredible eye, a relentless work ethic, and a deep understanding of people—qualities that have shaped the soul of our brand.

I’d also like to recognize the British Army, particularly the officers and regiments who trusted me with the Soldiery project. That trust opened doors not just professionally, but artistically—it pushed my portraiture into a realm of historical documentation that still drives my work today.

A special mention goes to the National Portrait Gallery in London for acquiring my work and validating years of persistence with a place in history. And lastly, to Caravaggio and Holbein—through their art, I found my direction. Their mastery of light, character, and narrative continues to inspire everything I do behind the camera.

This journey has been built on collaboration, trust, and encouragement—and I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has played a part in it.

Website: https://www.rorylewis.studio

Instagram: @rorylewisofficial

Twitter: @rorylewisphotog

Image Credits
Rory Lewis Photographer