A Revisit to My Portrait Sitting with the Legendary Ian McShane

From Lovejoy to Deadwood and Pirates of the Caribbean, Ian McShane has solidified his place as a screen legend, captivating audiences with his portrayals of bad guys, scoundrels, and thieves. In this blog post, we revisit my unforgettable portrait sitting with the English actor, director, producer, and voice artist. Get ready for a trip down memory lane as I share insights into the session and unveil a never-before-seen image from the original portrait sitting.

A Revisit to My Portrait Sitting with the Legendary Ian McShane (Los Angeles Portrait Photographer Rory Lewis).

Hailing from Blackburn, Ian McShane was a must for my Northerners Portrait Exhibition. I reached out to his agency and luck was on my side – he was in London promoting his new film, Cuban Fury. The meeting took place at Bleeding Heart Yard Photography Studios, where I was immediately struck by McShane's energy and drive, belying his 71 years.

Before the session began, I had the privilege of engaging in a conversation with Ian. He shared anecdotes from his past, including the time he had to forego his last term at RADA to make a movie, "The Wild And The Willing." His nonchalant attitude toward the certificate he eventually received, signed by none other than John Gielgud, adds a touch of humor to the narrative.

The images captured during the photoshoot reflect McShane's character and texture. Shot against black backdrops, the plain and simple expressions became the theme for the portrait session. One particular moment stands out – my request for the "Al Swearengen look" from Deadwood. McShane, in his signature voice, humorously replied, "You will have to pay me for that."

In this exclusive blog post, I am excited to share a never-before-seen image from the original portrait sitting with Ian McShane. This particular shot encapsulates the essence of the legendary actor, showcasing the raw and unfiltered charisma that has made him a fan favorite over the years.

Ian McShane's portrait sitting remains a cherished memory, and revisiting it allows us to appreciate the nuances of the man behind the characters. As we unveil the unseen image, it's a celebration of a screen legend and a testament to the magic that happens when art and talent collide.