In the world of portraiture, a skilled photographer possesses the unique ability to capture the essence of their subjects, revealing their multifaceted personalities and intriguing stories. Los Angeles-based portrait photographer Rory Lewis is one such master of his craft, and in his recent portrait sittings with renowned actors James Purefoy, Bob Gunton, Ray Proscia, and Rufus Sewell, he once again demonstrated the power of great portraiture.

The Chameleon of the Silver Screen

James Purefoy, a formidable presence in both stage and screen, returned to Lewis's London studio for another portrait sitting, becoming a pivotal part of Lewis's latest project, "Selah." Purefoy's versatile career, from a jousting hero in "A Knight's Tale" to a charismatic cult leader in "The Following," provided Lewis with a treasure trove of characters to explore.

What sets Rory Lewis apart is his ability to draw inspiration from the Old Master painters like Rembrandt, Caravaggio, Titian, and Ribera, masterfully recreating their light, atmosphere, and tones in his portraits. His goal with Purefoy was to capture a meditative portrait, transforming the actor into a contemplative character. However, before achieving this, Lewis and Purefoy delved into a series of strong and fierce character portrayals, from heroes to villains. Ultimately, they settled on a warrior ready to hang up his sword, perfectly aligning with the theme of "Selah." In just over an hour, Lewis achieved a portfolio of truly spontaneous images, each uniquely capturing the essence of this prominent actor.

Bob Gunton: The Authoritarian Icon

Bob Gunton, known for his portrayal of strict and authoritarian characters, including the iconic Warden Norton in "The Shawshank Redemption," accepted Lewis's invitation for a portrait sitting at his Los Angeles studio in Glendale. The resulting portraits were a testament to Gunton's theatrical prowess.

During their session, Lewis and Gunton explored the creation of complex and vigorous characters, each radiating energy and animation. Their conversation also revolved around "The Shawshank Redemption," a film that remains close to Lewis's heart. Gunton's remarkable ability to embody such diverse roles was a fascinating subject for Lewis's lens.

Ray Proscia: The Versatile Enigma

Ray Proscia, recognized for his roles in TV shows like "Imposters" and "The Man in the High Castle," added another layer of complexity to Lewis's portfolio. Proscia's captivating performance as Reinhard Heydrich in the latter series left an indelible mark on Lewis, making him an ideal subject for the "Selah" project.

In their portrait session, Lewis and Proscia delved into the creation of complex and energetic characters, mirroring the actor's versatility. Their collaboration resulted in a portrait that will be featured prominently in the "Selah" exhibition, capturing Proscia's enigmatic allure.

Rufus Sewell: A British Acting Virtuoso

Rufus Sewell, a British actor known for his impressive film and television career, added a touch of international flair to Lewis's portfolio. With roles spanning from "A Knight's Tale" to "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," Sewell's talent knows no bounds.

On stage, Sewell's accomplishments are equally remarkable. He originated pivotal roles in Tom Stoppard's plays, earning prestigious awards and nominations. Lewis had the privilege of capturing the essence of this virtuoso actor, adding yet another layer of depth to the "Selah" project.

In conclusion, Rory Lewis's portrait sittings with James Purefoy, Bob Gunton, Ray Proscia, and Rufus Sewell underscore the importance of great portraiture in preserving the essence of prominent individuals. Lewis's ability to draw inspiration from the masters of art and his knack for revealing the multifaceted personalities of his subjects make him a true master of his craft. Through his lens, he captures the vibrant tapestry of talent and charisma that defines these remarkable actors, reminding us of the power and significance of portraiture in the world of art and photography.