Soldiery

The Essence of Leadership: General Sir James Everard and the Call for 'Total Defence'

The Essence of Leadership: General Sir James Everard and the Call for 'Total Defence'

Portraiture has always been about more than capturing an image; it is about telling a story. In my portrait of General Sir James Everard, recently featured in The Telegraph, I aimed to convey not only the authority but also the profound responsibility embodied by one of the UK's most experienced military leaders.

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Capturing Leadership: My Latest Portrait of General Sir Patrick Sanders

Capturing Leadership: My Latest Portrait of General Sir Patrick Sanders

I’m thrilled to share my latest portrait commission from the British Army, featuring General Sir Patrick Sanders, KCB, CBE, DSO, ADC Gen, who has served as Chief of the General Staff since June 2022. This marks my third portrait for the esteemed gallery of British Army leaders, joining my previous works of General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith and General Sir Nicholas Carter.

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Capturing the Heritage of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment: A Journey Through the Years

Capturing the Heritage of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment: A Journey Through the Years

Since 2014, I have had the immense privilege of photographing the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, capturing the rich history and pageantry of this iconic unit. my work has chronicled the evolution of the regiment, revealing the faces and stories that continue to define this elite corps of mounted soldiers.

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Celebrating the Journey of 'Soldiery': A Heartfelt Thank You to Army&You Magazine

Celebrating the Journey of 'Soldiery': A Heartfelt Thank You to Army&You Magazine

I am immensely grateful to Army&You magazine for featuring my latest work with the British Army in their esteemed publication. The journey of 'Soldiery' has been a profound odyssey, intertwining history, artistry, and the rich tapestry of the modern British Army. Over the span of two dedicated years, I crisscrossed the nation, visiting 26 diverse regiments, each with their own unique traditions, uniforms, and heritage.

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Capturing History and Tradition: Rory Lewis Photographs The Royal Lancers

Capturing History and Tradition: Rory Lewis Photographs The Royal Lancers

As a photographer deeply passionate about capturing the essence of history and tradition through portraiture, my recent collaboration with The Royal Lancers (Queen Elizabeth's Own) was an incredibly inspiring journey. Immersed in the rich heritage and timeless values of this esteemed regiment, I embarked on a mission to create evocative table scenes that would pay homage to their legacy.

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Capturing the Essence of Leadership: A Portrait Session with Chief of General Staff General Patrick Sanders

Capturing the Essence of Leadership: A Portrait Session with Chief of General Staff General Patrick Sanders

In the illustrious world of military portraiture, Rory Lewis stands as the foremost photographer, specializing in capturing the essence of military personnel through his lens. Having previously photographed distinguished leaders like General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith and General Sir Nicholas Carter, Rory embarked on another prestigious project – capturing the commanding presence of General Patrick Sanders, the Chief of the General Staff.

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Rory Lewis' 'Soldiery' Project Joins the Permanent Collection at the National Army Museum in London

Rory Lewis' 'Soldiery' Project Joins the Permanent Collection at the National Army Museum in London

Los Angeles-based portrait photographer Rory Lewis has achieved a remarkable milestone in his photography career as his project, 'Soldiery,' finds a permanent home in the prestigious National Army Museum in London. Celebrating two decades in the industry, Lewis' 'Soldiery' is a testament to his dedication and talent as a portraitist.

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The Majestic Guards Regiments: Preserving Tradition and Diversity in King Charles III's Coronation

The Majestic Guards Regiments: Preserving Tradition and Diversity in King Charles III's Coronation

In the upcoming coronation of King Charles III, the Guards Regiments will play a vital role, upholding tradition and adding grandeur to the event. Renowned royal portrait photographer Rory Lewis has documented these regiments over the years, capturing their significance and diversity.

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Lord Guthrie Retires as Gold Stick as Princess Anne Carries on the Tradition at King Charles III's Coronation

Lord Guthrie Retires as Gold Stick as Princess Anne Carries on the Tradition at King Charles III's Coronation (London Portrait Photographer Rory Lewis)


Lord Guthrie, a highly respected British military figure, has recently relinquished his role as Gold Stick-in-Waiting to HRH Princess Anne. The Gold Stick is a symbolic position within the British royal household, and its holder is responsible for carrying a golden stick during certain ceremonial events. Princess Anne will now carry out this role during the upcoming coronation of King Charles III.

Lord Guthrie has had a distinguished military career, serving with the Welsh Guards and the Special Air Service. He provided valuable advice to the British government during the Bosnian War and the Kosovo War, and served as Chief of the General Staff and Chief of the Defence Staff.

Lord Guthrie Retires as Gold Stick as Princess Anne Carries on the Tradition at King Charles III's Coronation (London Portrait Photographer Rory Lewis)

In 2012, Lord Guthrie was awarded the Field Marshal's Baton in recognition of his leadership and service. A portrait of him was captured by photographer Rory Lewis, who aimed to recreate the symbolism of the British military uniform, associated with energy, war, danger, strength, and royal power. The portrait, shot from a low angle with harsh lighting to preserve detail, portrays Lord Guthrie as the commander held in immense regard.

The recent coronation of King Charles III was a momentous occasion, steeped in tradition and ceremony. The Gold Stick played a symbolic role during the coronation, representing the royal household's presence and authority. Princess Anne carried the golden stick during the procession from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace.

Lord Guthrie's retirement from the role of Gold Stick marks the end of an era and the passing of the baton to a new generation. Princess Anne's appointment to the role reflects her status as a senior member of the royal family and her dedication to serving the monarchy.

Lord Guthrie's contribution to the British military and his service to the country have been widely recognized and respected. His portrait, captured by Rory Lewis, serves as a testament to his remarkable leadership and service. As the royal household moves forward into a new era, Lord Guthrie's legacy and the tradition of the Gold Stick will continue to be remembered and celebrated.

The Rifles Museum

The Rifles Museum

Rory Lewis is pleased to donate a series of portraits to The Rifles Museum. Situated in the heart of the Winchester Military Quarter, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the story of the largest infantry regiment of the British Army.

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Digital Camera World Transgender Military Portraits

Digital Camera World Transgender Military Portraits

Thank you to Lauren Scott Editor of Digital Camera World, interviewing me about my transgender Military Project.

On the first day of the year, 2023, twenty countries allowed transgender military personnel to serve openly. In 2014, the British Army granted transgender people permission to serve openly in its military forces.

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Celebrating Heroism and History: Soldiery British Army Portraits Exhibition at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington DC, 11th October 2022

Celebrating Heroism and History: Soldiery British Army Portraits Exhibition at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington DC, 11th October 2022

Soldiery British Army Portraits Exhibition, a labor of dedication by professional portraitist Rory Lewis, has made its mark in the art world by historically documenting the modern British Military. The exhibition, in collaboration with the British Embassy in Washington DC, recently found its way to the prestigious Omni Shoreham Hotel. This special event paid homage to the legendary General Sharon Nesmith and highlighted the profound bond between the United Kingdom and the United States.

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General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith, KCB, CBE Portrait Sitting London.

General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith, KCB, CBE Portrait Sitting London.

My latest Portrait commission from the British Army took place with General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith, KCB, CBE Chief of the General Staff

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The Honourable Artillery Company Corporal Portrait Sitting

The Honourable Artillery Company Corporal Portrait Sitting

The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) is the oldest regiment in the British Army with a long history of tradition and excellence. HAC soldiers take great pride in their ability to switch quickly and seamlessly between serving their country on operations and performing ceremonial duties in the City of London.

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Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry London Portrait Sittings

Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry London Portrait Sittings

A company of the 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry took up the temporary role of mounting the QuA company of the 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry took up the temporary role of mounting the Queen’s Guard at Buckingham Palace last month. The honour usually falls to the British Army’s Household Division. een’s Guard at Buckingham Palace last month.

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The Royal Lancers (Queen Elizabeth's Own) Portrait Sittings

The Royal Lancers (Queen Elizabeth's Own) Portrait Sittings (Rory Lewis Military Portrait Photographer, London, New York & Los Angeles).

The Royal Lancers is a cavalry regiment of the British Army. The regiment was formed by an amalgamation of 9th/12th Royal Lancers and the Queen's Royal Lancers on 2 May 2015.

It was delightful to return a second time to capture a new series of portraits, having visited the Regiment in 2016.

Based in London & working throughout the year in New York, Washington DC & Los Angeles Rory Lewis is the UK’s & USA’s foremost Military Portraitist Photographer. Rory is regularly commissioned to photograph high profile Military Officers for all three branches of the Military ArmyRAF & Royal Navy. Portraits are very important to military personal. To be captured in uniform looking ones best and in full finery, can fill one with pride for the service. 

**(Discounts available for larger groups, including mini packages, please email RL@RORYLEWIS.STUDIO for a quote. Rory is able to travel throughout the UK, USA & Europe)**

The Royal Lancers (Queen Elizabeth's Own) Portrait Sittings (Rory Lewis Military Portrait Photographer, London, New York & Los Angeles).

Rory Lewis Photographer offers a comprehensive service to Members of the Armed Forces, RAFRoyal Navy and Army who are looking to capture a professional portrait.

Portraiture is Rory’s speciality, he is just as comfortable working with High Ranking Officers as with NCO’s and Enlisted Personnel. You will find his friendly and professional approach helps put even the most photo-phobic at ease. Discounts Available for Large Groups.

The Royal Lancers (Queen Elizabeth's Own) Portrait Sittings (Rory Lewis Military Portrait Photographer, London, New York & Los Angeles).

The Royal Lancers (Queen Elizabeth's Own) Portrait Sittings (Rory Lewis Military Portrait Photographer, London, New York & Los Angeles).

The Royal Lancers (Queen Elizabeth's Own) Portrait Sittings (Rory Lewis Military Portrait Photographer, London, New York & Los Angeles).

The Royal Lancers (Queen Elizabeth's Own) Portrait Sittings (Rory Lewis Military Portrait Photographer, London, New York & Los Angeles).

Major General Chris Ghika CBE Portrait Sitting

Major General Chris Ghika CBE Portrait Sitting

The Major-General commanding the Household Division commands the Household Division of the British Army. He is also General Officer Commanding London District. The Major- General has sole responsibility for the Service aspect of all State and ceremonial occasions within London District, having executive command of the Household Division.

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Queen's Gurkha Engineers Portrait Sittings

Queen's Gurkha Engineers Portrait Sittings

Delighted to be commissioned by The Queens’ Gurkha Engineers, to capture a series of portraits. The Queens' Gurkha Engineers are currently located with 36 Engineer Regiment in Maidstone, Kent, UK. Like all Gurkha units it is manned with Nepali soldiers, and Nepali and British Officers.

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Soldiery British Army Portraits Exhibition London 21st October 2019

Soldiery British Army Portraits Exhibition London 21st October 2019

Soldiery British Army Portraits appeared at an event in London on Monday 21st October 2019. My guests included His Royal Highness Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, KG, GCMG, GCVO, CD, ADC, General Sir James Everard, KCB, CBE NATO's Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe, Gavin Williamson CBE MP and minsters from Government and Senior Military Personnel.

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