Behind the Lens with Actor Paul Kaye: A Journey Through Time in ChronoVisions

It’s not every day you get to work with someone who was a huge part of your teenage years, but that's exactly what happened when I had the pleasure of photographing the brilliant Paul Kaye for my ChronoVisions: An Epochal Fusion series. Known for his iconic character Dennis Pennis and more recently his roles in Game of Thrones and After Life, Paul brought a unique and captivating energy to the shoot. What unfolded was an unforgettable collaboration that seamlessly merged historical narrative with contemporary portraiture.

ChronoVisions is a project that explores the passage of time, heavily inspired by the mythical Chronovisor a device said to allow glimpses into the past. The series captures actors and models in 1930s-inspired attire, set against historically significant backdrops, all with a modern twist. Drawing on artistic influences from Frank Herbert to Caravaggio, this project aims to transcend time and space, creating a visual tapestry that connects past and present. Paul's participation brought this vision to life in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

The first portrait is nothing short of theatrical. Paul, dressed in a vivid red military coat, is caught in a moment of madness and charm, reaching over a wooden chest as if about to share an untold story. His expression is playful yet intense, a perfect blend of historical mystery and his signature charismatic flair. The addition of a vintage bottle of wine on the table adds to the narrative, hinting at a character who may have lived through countless eras, perhaps gathering stories from each. The lighting and color scheme reinforce the idea of a figure lost in time, and Paul’s ability to slip into this role so effortlessly is a testament to his versatility.

Behind the Lens with Actor Paul Kaye: A Journey Through Time in ChronoVisions (Rory Lewis London Portrait Photographer 2024)

In contrast, the second image captures Paul in a more somber, introspective mood. Here, he sits quietly, his face bathed in soft shadows, offering a more reflective and grounded side to his character. This portrait strips away the theatrics, allowing his raw emotions to shine through. The muted tones and minimalist backdrop help focus on the depth of his expression, providing a powerful contrast to the previous portrait. It feels as though we are seeing the true man behind the character—a brief glimpse into the soul of someone who has witnessed the flow of time.

Behind the Lens with Actor Paul Kaye: A Journey Through Time in ChronoVisions (Rory Lewis London Portrait Photographer 2024)

The third portrait continues this exploration of the past, with Paul once again in his red military-inspired coat, this time staring directly into the camera. His gaze is unwavering, exuding authority and mystery. The deep green, painterly backdrop provides a stunning contrast to the rich red of his attire, echoing the influence of classical portraiture. Yet, there’s something contemporary about his posture and expression, almost as if he’s a time traveler who has crossed centuries to bring his story into the present day.

Behind the Lens with Actor Paul Kaye: A Journey Through Time in ChronoVisions (Rory Lewis London Portrait Photographer 2024)

This final image encapsulates the core of ChronoVisions—a blend of old and new, history and imagination, anchored by the enigmatic presence of Paul Kaye.

Working with Paul was a surreal experience. From his early days as Dennis Pennis to his unforgettable portrayal of Thoros of Myr in Game of Thrones, I’ve long admired his ability to slip between humor and intensity. During this shoot, he brought that same versatility, effortlessly moving between the playful, the profound, and the historical. His energy and creativity allowed us to push the boundaries of what ChronoVisions represents, making these portraits not just images but windows into a world where time blurs.

As the series progresses, I’m excited to see how future subjects like Andy Serkis will contribute to this exploration of time and history. Each person brings their own interpretation to the concept, and with Paul, we’ve captured something truly special—three distinct personas that each tell their own part of a larger story.

Thank you, Paul, for being part of this creative journey. Your talent and ability to merge with the concept have made ChronoVisions all the richer.

Stay tuned for more from ChronoVisions: An Epochal Fusion—this is just the beginning of an extraordinary journey through time.