It was an honor to welcome James J. Sexton—celebrated trial attorney, bestselling author, and nationally recognized family law expert—to our New York studio for a portrait session that sought to capture not just a face, but a force of nature.
Since the day he was "sworn in" as an attorney in Brooklyn in 2001, Sexton has been a commanding presence in New York's legal landscape. Often described as a "compassionate and dedicated advocate," and by others as a "courtroom gunslinger" or even "the sociopath you want on your side," Sexton’s reputation speaks to his rare ability to balance sharp legal acumen with relentless client advocacy. His career, focused intentionally on divorce and family law since his Fordham Law School days, has earned him a place among the top 1% of family attorneys practicing in New York State.
Bringing all of this intensity, focus, and discipline into the portrait session was key. Sexton’s personal ethos—waking daily at 4:00 a.m. to meditate, train, strategize, and hone his craft—gave us a clear roadmap for the tone of the shoot: strong, dynamic, uncompromising, yet deeply human.
A self-professed "computer geek" and tactical thinker, Sexton approaches every facet of his life, from courtroom litigation to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, with precision and meticulous preparation. These traits had to be reflected authentically in the final images. Working with dramatic lighting setups and precise direction, we captured portraits that reflected his sharp intellect, strategic mind, and indomitable presence—qualities that have made him a trusted advocate for Fortune 500 CEOs, surgeons, financial executives, and everyday families alike.
Photographing James wasn’t about creating a "standard" professional headshot. It was about distilling the intensity of a man whose life is a high-stakes chess match—one move calculated after the next, both inside and outside the courtroom.
Our New York studio is designed for exactly this kind of session—tailored, purposeful, and personal. Whether you're an attorney, an entrepreneur, a creative professional, or a rising executive, your headshot should communicate more than your title; it should embody your story.
If you’re ready to capture a portrait that reflects your dedication, drive, and individuality, we’re here in Midtown Manhattan—ready to create images that stand apart. 📩 Contact Rory Lewis Photography to book your session.
